ABOUT CHINCOTEAGUE
The native Indians called our Island Gingo-teague, which means "beautiful land across the water." Chincoteague Island is 7 miles long and approximately 1½ miles wide, and is Virginia’s only resort island. Historically, Chincoteague has been a fishing village, widely known for the salty taste of the oysters from nearby bays. Commercial fishing boats still off-load their catch on Chincoteague and the freshest of seafood is thus available at many local restaurants.
WHAT’S TO DO ON CHINCOTEAGUE
There is much to do and see on the islands of Chincoteague and nearby Assateague. Walking, bicycling, kayaking and canoeing are favorite activities. For a faster pace, jet-skis and motorboats are available and young people will enjoy playing miniature golf or bouncing in the bumper boats. Knowledgeable captains will take you out on a nature cruise, and fishing boats are available for charter. After a day in the Refuge, on the beach, or on the water, one can browse for antiques and gifts or enjoy a meal at one of Chincoteague’s fine restaurants.
ABOUT ASSATEAGUE
Nearby Assateague Island provides a natural backdrop for your stay on Chincoteague. It is only two miles away from the center of Chincoteague, so take your car or borrow bikes from the Channel Bass Inn and cycle over to visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge, a favorite destination for birders, includes sandy dunes, marshlands and wooded areas. Trails for walking, bicycling, and driving give excellent access to the area. Don’t forget to take your binoculars and bird book to observe the many varieties of birds and other wildlife. You’ll also see the wild ponies made famous by Marguerite Henry’s children’s classic Misty of Chincoteague, which still roam contentedly on Assateague Island.
Chincoteague Natural History Association sponsors nature tours by bus on Assateague and also organizes visits to the top of Assateague Lighthouse. The new Herbert H. Bateman Visitor Center is most worthy of exploration and offers fun and education for children and adults alike.
The National Seashore, three miles beyond the entrance to the Wildlife Refuge, provides long sandy stretches of beach along the Atlantic Ocean for walking, sunning, swimming, shell-gathering, and kite-flying! As well as the bicycles, we have beach towels, beach chairs and umbrellas available for you to use at the beach. |
