Eastern Shore & Northern Neck
Chincoteague, Virginia
Town
Wild ponies, beaches and refuge marsh
Chincoteague is an incorporated town in Accomack County on Chincoteague Island, famous for its wild ponies and as the gateway to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Island.
History & Local Character
The island's wild ponies, said to descend from horses that survived a Spanish shipwreck, have drawn visitors since the 19th century, and the annual pony swim began in 1925.
Housing & Real Estate
Island cottages, vacation rentals and waterfront homes make up a market driven by tourism and second homes.
Restaurants & Shopping
Main Street and Maddox Boulevard hold seafood restaurants, ice cream stands and family-run cafes that serve the summer season.
Schools & Education
Accomack County Public Schools serves the town.
Parks & Recreation
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Island National Seashore provide beaches, marsh trails and wildlife viewing.
Transportation & Accessibility
US 13 and Route 175 connect the island to the mainland and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
Local Businesses
Seafood restaurantsBike rentalsBoat toursGift shops
No businesses are listed in Chincoteague yet. Add your business to be the first.
Nearby Attractions
- Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
- Assateague Island
- Chincoteague Pony Centre
- Maddox Family Campground
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- Beaches and wildlife refuge
- Strong seasonal economy
- Distinctive island character
Considerations
- Very seasonal
- Limited winter services
- High flood exposure
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to Chincoteague?
Chincoteague is reached by Route 175 from US 13 on Virginia's Eastern Shore, about an hour south of Salisbury, Maryland.