Things To Do

Chincoteague Island Activities

Experience the magic of Chincoteague, VA

Chincoteague Island, a serene gem on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, offers a wealth of activities for visitors of all ages. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Chincoteague Bay, the island is renowned for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and charming community. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, home to the famous wild ponies, and enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and kayaking. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and delectable seafood, Chincoteague Island promises an unforgettable coastal adventure.

Discover Chincoteague

Assateague Island Activities

Endless Memories in a Natural Wildlife Refuge

Assateague Island, a 37-mile barrier island located off the coasts of Virginia and Maryland, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Famous for its wild Chincoteague ponies, the island offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Assateague also boasts pristine beaches, lush maritime forests, and serene salt marshes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities such as birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking are popular, and the Assateague Island National Seashore and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge provide ample space for exploration and adventure.

Discover Assateague

Activities Map

Navigate the map below to explore Chincoteague and Assateague and find your perfect ways to enjoy the island’s attractions.

Assateague Tours, Boat Tours, Chincoteague Island, VA

Assateague Boat & Kayak Tours

Assateague Tours offers the best Boat Tours and Kayak Tours along Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. They offer group tours as well as Private Exclusive Tours. They will take you to the most remote areas of the National Refuge for pony watching and birdwatching. Assateague Boat and Kayak Tours will get you up close and personal with the wild Chincoteague ponies and all the wildlife Assateague Island has to offer. They offer morning tours, pony tours, nature tours and sunset cruises. Assateague Tours will tour the great marshlands of Chincoteague & Assateague. They go around the islands to find the world-famous Chincoteague ponies, dolphins and the biggest selection of native birds on the east coast. Just call them at 757-336-6176 to make a reservation or visit www.assateaguetours.com for more info.

7512 East Side Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-336-6176
https://assateaguetours.com/

Snug Harbor Kayak Rentals, Chincoteague Island, VA

Snug Harbor Boat Tours & Kayak Tours

Old Town Canoe & Kayak tours at Snug Harbor Marina on Chincoteague Island is the biggest and highly recognized kayak outfitter on the Eastern Shore of Virginia offering premium kayak rentals as well as daily Kayak Eco Tours throughout Chincoteague and Assateague waterways. Kayak Rentals and Kayak Eco Tours take off from Snug Harbor Marina which is located conveniently right across the channel from Assateague Island and the Refuge.

7536 East Side Road, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-336-6176
[email protected]
https://chincoteagueaccommodations.com/all-activities/guided-eco-kayak-tours/

Snug Harbor Boat Rentals, Chincoteague Island, VA

Snug Harbor Boat & Kayak Rentals

Snug Harbor Marina has a large fleet of boats for rent. Snug Harbor offers Carolina Skiffs, Bentley pontoon boats and Old Town canoes and kayaks. Chincoteague Island is one of the most incredible places you will ever visit and if you want to get the best experience and see all Chincoteague has to offer, you must be in a boat. The name Chincoteague is an Indian name that means beautiful land across the water and the only way to see what the Indians did is tour the islands by water, just like the natives.

7536 East Side Road, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-336-6176
[email protected]
https://chincoteagueaccommodations.com/

Step Through Time Tours, History Tours, Chincoteague Island, VA

Chincoteague Step Through Time Tours

Chincoteague’s history is a rich and exciting tale of Indians, settlers, pirates, ponies, oysters and buried treasures. If you’ve ever wondered what the real history of Chincoteague Island is all about, take the tour that shares the fascinating and true story of this beautiful island across the water. Tours walk visitors through the downtown, while popping into unexpected locations to hear fascinating but little-known facts about the island and her people.

Historic Downtown, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-894-1953
[email protected]
https://www.facebook.com/Chincoteague-Step-Through-Time-Tours-100169668125635

Andy’s Guide Service

Andy Linton, a native of Virginia’s Eastern Shore, has been guiding hunting parties since 1965. Featured in “Disappearing Delmarva – Portraits of the Peninsula People,” The Washington Post, the television program “Virginia Outdoor Life,” and local newspapers, he is well respected and known as the Eastern Shore’s most experienced hunting guide. Licensed by the United States Coast Guard as a Master Captain, he provides a personal touch and is the sole guide for this business. His return clientele attests to his expertise and dependability.

757-990-2499
https://chincoteague.com/alinton/

Chincoteague Bike Shop

Chincoteague’s first electric bike rental company! Explore the islands on land by renting one of the electric or pedal bikes at Chincoteague E Bike Rentals. The mission is to set a standard of excellence in the bike rental industry that is unparalleled. Success is founded on providing first-class service, safe and modern bikes, and 100% customer satisfaction.

6450 Maddox Boulevard, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-336-7032
[email protected]
https://cibikeshop.com/

Chincoteague Hunting and Fishing Center, Fish Tales Charterboat Fishing, Chincoteague Island, VA

Chincoteague Fishing Center – Charterboat Fishing

Let’s go fishing aboard Captain Pete’s “FISH TALES”! Captain Pete is Chincoteague’s longest-running charter boat captain. Fish the Bay, Ocean, and Reef for a variety of species too numerous to list. Everything is provided, including baiting your hook, removing your fish, and cleaning them at the end of your trip. Trips start at $29.00 for adults and $25.00 for children 12 and under. CALL 757-336-FISH (3474).

2246 Curtis Merritt Harbor Road, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-336-FISH (3474)
[email protected]
https://fishtales.fish/

Chincoteague Island Adventures

Captain Randy Birch is a true “Teaguer” – born and raised on Chincoteague Island, he has spent his entire life working on and around the island. As a waterman by trade, he harvests hard and softshell crabs, minnows, and horseshoe crabs during the summer, and guides waterfowl hunts in the winter. His intimate knowledge of the waters lends a unique authenticity to the tour experience. Captain Randy knows where the wild ponies live and will take you to see them. Sunrise and sunset tours are recommended, with other times available upon request. Please visit his website for more information.

4436 Williams Lane, Chincoteague, VA, USA
757-894-5964
[email protected]
http://www.chincoteagueislandadventures.com/

Barnacle Bill’s Boat Tours

Come take a boat tour with Master Captain Barnacle Bill! Enjoy breathtaking scenery as you sail the waters of Chincoteague and Assateague Island in search of adventure and discovery. You will see Bald Eagles, wild ponies, the Assateague Lighthouse, dolphins, a large variety of birds and waterfowl, and some of the most beautiful sunsets you will ever experience. Being a native of Chincoteague, Bill can share many stories about life as it was years ago when his grandparents lived, worked, and even went to school on Assateague. “I am Barnacle Bill, your Captain, born and raised in the same house that my dad was born and raised in on Chincoteague Island.”

2246 Curtis Merritt Harbor Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
757-894-3746
https://www.barnaclebillswildponyboattours.com/

Chincoteague Island Library

The Chincoteague Island Library serves the residents of Chincoteague, our Eastern Shore neighbors, and many seasonal visitors. The library contains current and popular books, audio books, e-books, CDs, a basic reference collection, magazines, DVDs, videos, and newspapers. There are computers for e-mail, word processing, and surfing the net. The Library also offers 24-hour wireless internet connection. They offer a variety of Children’s Programs, as well as Adult Programs. The Library Benefit Shop sells great used books for beach reading and much more. Check their web site for hours of operation and more details about the programs they offer.

4077 Main Street, Chincoteague VA
757-336-3460
[email protected]
http://www.chincoteagueislandlibrary.org/

Delmarva Discovery Museum, Pocomoke City, MD

Delmarva Discovery Center

Visit the Shore’s leading destination for hands-on discovery. Unleash your imagination – and your kids – in this exciting new museum including a 6,000-gallon aquarium, crawl-through beaver lodge, a Native American village, a larger-than-life steamship and many special events throughout the year! Visit the web site or call them at 410-957-9933 for more details.

2 Market Street, Pocomoke City MD
410-957-9933
[email protected]
https://www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org/

Iron Pony Adventure Park

The Iron Pony Adventure Park is Chincoteague Island’s newest attraction for family fun! It includes 30+ aerial obstacles on two full levels. Move from platform to platform by traversing different obstacles, like ladders, tight ropes, balance beams, wobbly bridges, and cargo nets. Take the Pony Plunge – a 26-foot-high leap of faith! Participants are safely secured with harness at all times. This is a must do activity during your Chincoteague Island vacation!

4368 Pension St, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-336-7118
[email protected]
https://www.ironponyci.com/

Marshland Charters – Boat Tours

Bay fishing or cruising the bays and coves around Chincoteague Island can create great lasting memories for you and your family. Captain Matt is dedicated to helping you make these memories. Fish the bays and channels for flounder, croakers, bluefish, and many other species. Enjoy a true back bay cruise, exploring places no other cruise boats go. See birds on the flats, ospreys on their nests, and eagles. Dolphins can be seen feeding and playing. You may also get to walk on a sandbar and feel the sand between your toes!

Curtis Merritt Harbor Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-894-1627 or 757-894-1626
[email protected]
http://www.chincoteague.com/marshland-charters/

Snug Harbor Bait & Tackle

7536 East Side Road, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-336-6176
[email protected]
https://chincoteagueaccommodations.com/

Marshland Charters – Charterboat Fishing

Curtis Merritt Harbor Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-894-1627 or 757-894-1626
[email protected]
http://www.chincoteague.com/marshland-charters/

Marshland Charters – Waterfowl Hunting

Curtis Merritt Harbor Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-894-1627 or 757-894-1626
[email protected]
http://www.chincoteague.com/marshland-charters/

Maui Jack’s Waterpark

Maui Jack invites the whole family to catch a wave at this action-packed waterpark on Chincoteague Island, VA. Enjoy sliding and splashing on waterslides, floating on the lazy river, chilling in the tiki cabanas, refueling at the concession area, and shopping for Maui Jack’s souvenirs. Be sure to keep an eye out for their namesake, the legendary Maui Jack, an old-time surfer dude straight from the swells of the North Shore who loves the laid-back vibe of Chincoteague. You’re likely to catch a glimpse of Jack enjoying his summer afternoons slipping, splashing, and sliding in the bodacious shark-free waters of Chincoteague’s finest waterpark attraction. Passes are available online at www.mauijacks.com.

6742 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-336-1800
https://www.mauijacks.com/

Museum of Chincoteague Island

Inside the Museum of Chincoteague Island, you’ll discover the 1st Order Fresnel Lens from the Assateague Island Lighthouse, the iconic Chincoteague ponies known as Misty and Stormy, models of vessels that plied the Chincoteague waters long ago, items that washed ashore from shipwrecks, a decoy carver’s workshop, scavenger hunts for children and adults, lectures, classes, and many artifacts that tell the story of Chincoteague Island life throughout its long and varied existence. Welcome to one of Chincoteague Island’s most visited and highly recommended destinations! The museum is open seasonally from March until early December, with hours from 10 AM until 4 PM. Feel free to call the Museum at 757-336-6117, check out the website at chincoteaguemuseum.com, or email at [email protected] for more information regarding the schedule, rental space, or local history. The museum is located at 7125 Maddox Blvd. We hope to see you and your family soon!

7125 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-336-6117
[email protected]
https://chincoteaguemuseum.com/

Assateague Explorer Kayak Tour

Escape to a nature haven where wild ponies roam freely on a kayaking adventure with Assateague Explorer. Guided tours start right across the channel from Assateague Island, the wildlife refuge. Kayak from the scenic dock overlooking the Assateague Lighthouse and explore the borders of Assateague’s extensive, calm western shoreline. Experience solitude, nature, and wildlife viewing on these unique island adventures. Paddle through the warm backwaters of barrier islands in premium sea touring or sit-on-top ocean kayaks. Search for famous wild ponies, eagles, shorebirds, and other wildlife as you navigate creeks, channels, and coves, or sometimes land on a remote beach at Assateague. No experience is necessary. It is a fun way to see great parts of the island with your family and friends.

2246 Curtis Merritt Harbor Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
757-336-5956
[email protected]
http://www.assateagueexplorer.com/

Assateague Explorer Boat Tour

Where are the Wild Ponies? Since 2001, the Pony Express Nature Cruise has provided the best opportunity to observe wild ponies along the borders of Assateague’s extensive, calm western shoreline. Departing from the southern end of Chincoteague Island, the cruise spends more time along the best part of Assateague, looking for wild ponies, dolphins, eagles, shorebirds, and other wildlife. Enjoy a sunset wildlife cruise for a spectacular coastal experience or add a kayak tour for a more adventurous outing. Cruise/kayak packages and group/family discounts are available. Be sure to call ahead for reservations. Featured on the ABC “Good Morning America” show, Coastal Living Magazine, Southern Living Magazine, Family Fun Magazine, and more.

2246 Curtis Merritt Harbor Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
757-336-5956
[email protected]
http://www.assateagueexplorer.com/

Queen Hive Farm Horse Riding

Queen Hive Farm is the Eastern Shore’s Royal Place to ride. Located just minutes from Chincoteague, they offer trial rides and riding lessons for both local residents and visitors to the area. Book a riding lesson on one of their gentle, well trained lesson horses – fun for any age! The entire family will enjoy the Trail Rides. No experience necessary! They have a horse for everyone – even Dad. Their trails are very scenic, you might see wild turkeys, ring-necked pheasants, eastern bluebirds, and even white-tailed deer. Visitors of all experience levels rate these 5 stars! Queen Hive Farm looks forward to hosting you on their farm.

11172 Atlantic Road, Assawoman, VA, 23302
757-990-0017
[email protected]
https://www.queenhivefarm.com/

Refuge Golf and Amusements

Toddlers to grownups all find fun and safe things to do at Refuge Golf and Amusements. The youngest visitors enjoy the kiddie merry-go-round and other rides just their size. The arcade attracts all ages. Challenge your companions to a round of mini-golf or a go-kart race. The karts seat one or two. Or challenge yourself on the Rock Wall. To cool off on hot days you’ll appreciate the misters along the mini-golf course, water wars in the bumper boats and enjoy ice cream and funnel cakes in the air-conditioned arcade.

6528 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-336-5420
[email protected]
https://gotofunland.com/

Sundial Books

Sundial Books is Chincoteague’s locally owned year ’round full-service bookshop. Their inventory includes two floors of new, used and collectible books, including books about the Island and the Eastern Shore. Browse the eclectic collection of music cd’s, as well as jewelry, art, gifts, journals and cards made by local artists. Check out the website for upcoming author signings, book talks, poetry readings, live music and other events. They specialize in old-fashioned customer service. If you can’t find a book you are looking for, please let them know. They can order most books currently in print and will search various resources for copies of used books.

4065 Main Street, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-336-5825
[email protected]
http://www.sundialbooks.net/

The Bike Depot

The closest bicycle rentals to the beach, The Bike Depot offers a wide selection of over 200 standard and specialty cycles for riders of all ages. Beach rentals include heavy-duty sun blocking umbrellas, lightweight beach chairs, boogie boards, and skim boards. Bicycles are first-come, first-served, with hourly, daily, and weekly rates available.

7058 Maddox Boulevard, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-336-5511
[email protected]
https://refugebikes.com/

The Chincoteague Center

Let world-famous Chincoteague Island be the backdrop for your next business or social event! This quaint seaside town retains the flavor of yesteryear while providing all the amenities of today. Whether planning a convention, trade show, corporate event or conference, class, festival, wedding, or reunion, the Chincoteague Center provides the perfect venue and meeting place. The modern, spacious facility can accommodate up to 800 attendees in a 9,000 square foot area that includes sliding wall partitions for virtually unlimited space options. The island’s beautiful downtown district hosts a multitude of shops, seafood restaurants, and art studios. Its close proximity to the NASA Wallops Flight Facility, NOAA, and the National Wildlife Refuge makes it a very unique event destination. Add in wild ponies, boating, biking, fishing, and rocket launches, and you’ve got one unforgettable setting—all within 3.5 hours of the Washington DC/Baltimore area and within 2 hours of Norfolk International Airport. Make Chincoteague Center the venue for your next special event!

6155 Community Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-336-6519
[email protected]
http://www.thechincoteaguecenter.com/

Osprey Nest Art Gallery, Shopping, Chincoteague Island, VA

The Osprey Nest

The Osprey Nest is Chincoteague’s #1 stop for all your art needs and has been serving the community of Chincoteague and visitors for over 30 years. The Art Gallery features paintings by renown wildlife artist Kevin McBride. The Gift Shop features a wide variety of souvenirs and gifts for all ages and budgets. The experienced custom framing department uses the materials and technology needed to preserve any type of art.

4096 Main Street, Chincoteague VA 23336
757-336-6042
[email protected]
https://www.chincoteague.com/OspreyNest/

Wonderfull 1

Bay Fishing with Capt. Wayne Lewis on the 32-foot Wonderfull 1. Two four-hour trips daily 8AM to 12 PM and 1PM to 5 PM Maximum of six people, bring your own refreshments and remember to bring the kids. They depart from Curtis Merrit Harbor. Flounder – Croaker – Trout- Bluefish – Striped Bass – Kingfish

2246 Curtis Merritt Hbr Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336
757-336-6835
[email protected]
https://www.chincoteague.com/wonderfull/