Chincoteague Island and nearby Assateague Island are among the hidden
treasures on the eastern shore of Virginia.
Assateague Island lies within the boundaries of two states, Maryland and
Virginia. Assateague Island National Seashore and Chincoteague National Wildlife
Refuge covers the Virginia section. Assateague State Park covers the Maryland
portion of the Island.
Attractions
Chincoteague Ponies
Chincoteague Island is perhaps best known for the annual pony swim and
auction. Legend has it that one or more Spanish Galleons wrecked on Assateague
Island, populating the island with what has become the world famous Chincoteague
ponies, made famous in the book and movie Misty of Chincoteague. Every year in
July, the local fire department rounds up the ponies, and the herd swims across
the channel from Assateague to Chincoteague. The swim, auction and carnival
attract visitors by the thousands. More information on Chincoteague Ponies
can be found at Chincoteague
- Island Net.
Bird watching
The area is famous for it's bird watching opportunities. Assateague Island is
a mix of beaches, dunes, marshes, lagoons, creeks, bays grasslands and forests.
The marshes and bays that surround Chincoteague Island also hold an abundance of
wildlife. Ducks, geese, herons, and every manner of shorebird wander the endless
maze of waterways year round. In the winter, the population of water birds
increases dramatically as migrating fowl pour into Chincoteague National
Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas.
Scenic Cruises
This is a great way to see the island's wealth of wildlife and enjoy the
sundown over Chincoteague Bay. A variety of vessels are available throughout the
year. Vacationers can choose from small rental boats, guided pontoon boats
capable of carrying entire families, and even large ocean going cruisers. An
experienced group of charter captains give visitors a wide range of eco-tourism
choices.
Fishing
Chincoteague offers a tremendous range of fishing opportunities. In early
spring, flounder fishing is an option. As spring gives way to summer, the
weather calms and anglers have a list of fish to pursue. Inshore, flounder may
linger as croaker, trout and bluefish become more common. Deep sea fishing goes
into high gear with sharks, monster bluefish, tuna, mahi mahi, wahoo,
billfish inhabiting local waters. Fall brings cooler water and with it, red drum
and striped bass, or "rockfish". Wreck and artificial reef fishing is
practically a year round sport when weather allows.
Hunting
Chincoteague is a hunter's paradise. Local guides maintain a variety of
blinds in various locations. A typical hunt might include shooting a variety of
species from several areas over the course of the day. Bring lots of ammunition!
Deer hunters can participate in Sika deer hunts on the Refuge.
Local Art
Chincoteague is a treasure for art lovers. Shops display decoys and other
carvings of every variation. Of particular interest are the working decoys that
many carvers still produce. These are fully functional duck decoys, lifelike
enough to fool the wariest of flocks. Many of these are too perfect to actually
take hunting, regardless of their intended use. Other art includes paintings and
photography of the natural environment, the famous Chincoteague ponies,
waterfowl and other wildlife.
Chincoteague Information
Chincoteague Island Tourism and
Visitor Information
Chincoteague Virginia Fishing
Chincoteague Hunting
Chincoteague Oysters
Clams and Clamming
Seafood Recipes
Charter Boats, Guides, Nature Cruises, Scenic Cruises
Hand Made Chincoteague Decoys
Chincoteague Downtown Park
Chincoteague Town Dock
Memorial Park
Curtis Merritt Marina