The origin of the wild ponies of Assateague is not entirely clear but local folklore has it that they are descendants of horses that survived when a 16th century Spanish galleon was shipwrecked off the Virginia coast. Without confirmation though, the most plausible explanation is that they are descended from horses that were brought to barrier islands like Assateague in the 1600s to avoid fencing laws and livestock taxation on the Mainland. The ponies were made famous by the author Marguerite Henry who wrote the Misty of Chincoteague novels while staying in the town in the 1940s.

Tucked away on Virginia’s Eastern Shore, NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility plays an incredibly important role in our understanding of earth and space science. Since its beginnings, Wallops has launched more than 16,000 rockets carrying science experiments, technology, and satellites. The public can explore the history and future of Wallops and NASA at the Visitor Center, which also serves as the public viewing site for rocket lauches from Wallops Island.

Since 1975 the Conklin family has been serving up delicious frozen treats to locals and visitors alike. Island Creamery has expanded from its original location on Chincoteague to nearby Salisbury and Berlin, but still continues to churn out frozen desserts daily in small batches using an all-natural premium ice cream mix from local cows. Inspiration for flavors comes from local fruit farmers as well as regional features, e.g., Pony Tracks, Salt Marsh, Wallops Rocket Fuel

Chincoteague Island, known for its coastal charm offers a delectable array of seafood dining options. With the Atlantic Ocean at Chincoteague's back door, the seafood goes straight from the ocean to your plate. Chincoteague Island has long been renound for its fresh, local seafood (especially Tom's Cove Clams and Oysters). Whether you’re craving fresh catches from the sea or classic seafood dishes, dining options abound, from formal and casual restaurants, carry out, seafood markets, food trucks, and don’t forget the annual festivals: the Chincoteague Seafood Festival in May ant the Chincoteague Oyster Festival in October.

Located on the Indigenous homelands of the Pocomoke and Occohannock peoples, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge protects beach, dune, marsh, and maritime forest habitats. Originally established in 1943 to protect migratory birds, this refuge is now one of the most visited in the United States. With 15 miles of hiking and a pristine beach, there are plenty of opportunities to seek out wildlife and connect with the area’s rice cultural history. The Refuge is a birder's paradise, as well as the home of cultural treasures such as Assateague Lighthouse and the world famous Chincoteague ponies.

Whether you’re an early rise or prefer the magic of twilight, the Islands of Assateague and Chincoteague offer picturesque settings for both sunrises and sunsets. As the sun rises over the Atlantic Ocean, the beach and dunes of Assateague Seashore come alive with warm hues, and during sunset, the sky over Chincoteague transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors.

Some of the best fishing grounds in the Mid-Atlantic are found in the local waters around the Islands of Chincoteague and Assateague, either in the inland waterways or out in the Atlantic Ocean. You can fish from a boat or from the beach but make sure to check the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries web site for regulations. For surf fishing on Assateague Island beach, a VA saltwater license is required. Obtain an after hours fishing permit from the Visitors Center for night time fishing.

Crabbing (blue crabs) is permitted in designated areas of Swan Cove and along Beach Road, as well as from the boardwalks near the entrance gates to the Refuge. Only a few tools are required to catch these feisty creatures: a crab line, net, bucket, and bait. Chicken necks are great bait – the smellier, the better! Clamming is a fun activity for all ages. It is permitted in Toms Cove and all you need are a bucket or basket and a clam rake. Look for the tell-tale “key hole” in the mud, or just pick a spot and start digging. Crabbing and Clamming regulations are enforced by Refuge law enforcement.

The marine waters and pristine estuaries around Chincoteague and Assateague Islands set the perfect stage for dolphins and other local marine life. Dolphins love to hunt for fish and socialize and are encountered frequently on boat tours and cruises, and even by swimmers and surfers. Bottlenose dolphins are beautiful and graceful, but also fun and inquisitive. There is nothing like seeing them in the wild, treating onlookers to a show as they swim and play in their natural habitat.

Originally constructed in 1867 to replace a smaller lighthouse, the Assateague Lighthouse stands tall at 142 feet (43 meters). This historic beacon is situated on the southern tip of Assateague Island, within the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The Lighthouse has a distinctive conical shape and is adorned with alternating bands of red and white. It serves as an active aid in navigation, owned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and operated by the U.S. Coast Guard. The Assateague Lighthouse has a distinctive sequence of light shining, a double flash, which sets it apart from other east coast lighthouses. The top of the Lighthouse is accessible to the public, if you’re willing to climb all those stairs!

The Islands of Chincoteague and Assateague offer a delightful playground for water enthusiasts. Whether you’re an expert kayaker/canoer or a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the local waters and discover waterfowl, dolphins, Chincoteague Ponies, the Assateague Lighthouse, crabs, wild oysters, and more!