Chincoteague Island, a tranquil jewel nestled along Virginia’s Eastern Shore, beckons families with its unique blend of natural beauty and charming small-town appeal. More than just a vacation spot, it serves as the gateway to the Assateague Island National Seashore, a pristine coastal refuge. This area is famed for its captivating herds of wild ponies, immortalized in Marguerite Henry’s beloved children’s classic, "Misty of Chincoteague." Accessible by a scenic drive across the Route 175 bridge or a relaxing boat ride, Chincoteague offers an escape from the ordinary.
While the annual Pony Swim and Roundup in late July is a spectacular event drawing crowds from far and wide, Chincoteague and its neighboring Assateague Island possess a year-round allure. The islands provide a delightful destination for families seeking adventure and relaxation. Comfortable hotel accommodations are readily available on Chincoteague, providing a convenient base for exploring the wonders of the area. From encountering the legendary wild ponies to ascending the historic Assateague Lighthouse, Chincoteague offers a treasure trove of kid-friendly activities. This article explores the top things to do on Chincoteague Island with kids, helping you create unforgettable memories on your family vacation.
Cool Off at Maui Jack’s Waterpark
During the summer months, Chincoteague Island experiences warm temperatures, making Maui Jack’s Waterpark a refreshing oasis. Open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, this vibrant waterpark offers a variety of attractions to thrill visitors of all ages. For the adventurous, towering body slides and high-speed slides provide an adrenaline rush (riders must be taller than 48 inches to participate). Younger children can splash and play in the designated splash zone, while the whole family can unwind together as they float gently down the lazy river.
For families traveling with small children or large groups, renting a cabana is a worthwhile investment. These private havens offer a comfortable space to relax, rehydrate, and regroup between rides. Cabanas provide shade, seating, and a designated meeting point, ensuring everyone stays comfortable and connected throughout the day.
To maximize your savings, consider booking accommodations at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Chincoteague Island or the Fairfield Inn & Suites Chincoteague Island, both partners of Maui Jack’s Waterpark. Guests staying at these locations often receive special rates on waterpark day passes, allowing you to enjoy all the aquatic fun without breaking the bank.
Address: 6742 Maddox Blvd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Phone: +1 757-336-1800
Get Hands On at the Delmarva Discovery Center
Venture approximately 30 minutes from downtown Chincoteague to West Pocomoke and discover the Delmarva Discovery Center, an interactive museum that ignites curiosity and fosters learning. This engaging museum offers a unique opportunity for children to explore the region’s history, culture, and natural environment through hands-on exhibits.
Step back in time and imagine life on a steamboat as you take the helm of a replica vessel. Delve into the rich history and traditions of the area’s Native American tribes by stepping inside a life-sized replica of a traditional wigwam. Investigate the inner workings of a beaver’s dam, gaining insights into the engineering prowess of these fascinating creatures.
The Delmarva Discovery Center also features a touch pool, where kids can get up close and personal with horseshoe crabs and other intriguing marine invertebrates. Explore exhibits showcasing North American river otters, reptiles, amphibians, and other fascinating wildlife. Unleash your inner scientist in the STEAM lab, where children can don lab coats and conduct exciting experiments. The Delmarva Discovery Center is a must-see for families seeking an educational and entertaining experience, adding another dimension to the top things to do on Chincoteague Island with kids.
Address: 2 Market St, Pocomoke City, MD 21851-1023, USA
Phone: +1 410-957-9933
See the Wild Ponies Up Close
The wild ponies of Chincoteague are undoubtedly one of the island’s most iconic attractions. While you might catch glimpses of these magnificent creatures while driving, biking, or walking around the refuge, a private bus tour offers an unparalleled opportunity for close encounters.
Embark on the 90-minute guided "Refuge Trek," offered by the Chincoteague National History Association from April to November. This tour takes you along a seven-mile service road, typically inaccessible to the general public, providing an intimate look at the ponies in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for other wildlife along the way, including white-tailed deer, Sika elk, and a diverse array of bird species. The tour includes several stops, allowing you to disembark the bus and capture memorable photographs.
For an even more immersive experience, visit the Chincoteague Pony Centre. Here, children can enjoy pony rides, pet the gentle animals, watch captivating pony shows, and learn about the ponies’ history through a 30-minute documentary. The Chincoteague Pony Centre also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, offering seasonal and holiday-themed attractions.
Address: 8231 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Phone: +1 757-336-6122
Hit the Beach
Just a quarter of a mile from Chincoteague lies its sister island, Assateague, home to over 37 miles of pristine beaches, considered among the finest in the Mid-Atlantic region. Accessible by car, bike, or on foot via a scenic trail, Assateague offers a diverse range of beach activities for the whole family.
Two beaches on Assateague are staffed with lifeguards during the summer months, ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. Engage in a variety of beach activities, including four-wheel driving (with proper permits), seashell collecting, clamming, swimming, surf fishing, beach hiking, and birdwatching. The refuge and beaches are open year-round, with varying hours of operation depending on the season.
Address: Assateague Island, United States
Go Crabbing
Crabbing is a quintessential Chincoteague experience, and it doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Simply visit one of the island’s fishing shops or hardware stores to purchase a bucket, net, and crabbing kit, which typically includes frozen chicken necks, string, and a bait clip.
Kids will delight in reeling in blue crabs, but it’s important to exercise caution to avoid getting pinched. Be sure to familiarize yourself with state regulations regarding size and quantity limits, as these rules are strictly enforced by local law officers and park rangers.
Address: 8231 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Phone: +1 757-336-6122
Take a Cruise and Get Your Hands Dirty
For a truly unforgettable experience, book a Hands On Eco-Expedition with Captain Barry’s Back Bay Cruises. This two-hour tour allows visitors to connect with nature in a uniquely immersive way. Feel the mud between your toes as you explore the local ecosystem, pull up crab traps, dig for clams, shuck oysters, and learn about the fascinating marine life that thrives in the back bay.
These tours are particularly engaging for children, who will relish the opportunity to get their hands dirty while learning about the environment. With tours limited to six people, each participant receives personalized attention and ample opportunities to participate.
Address: 6262 Marlin Street, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Phone: +1 757-336-6508
Explore the Island on Two Wheels
Chincoteague’s flat terrain and stunning scenery make it ideal for exploring by bicycle. The island offers a network of sidewalks and a fantastic paved Island Nature Trail along Hallie Whealton Smith Drive.
The Bike Depot offers a wide selection of standard and specialty bicycles for riders of all ages. Bicycles are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with rates offered by the hour, day, and week.
Address: Hallie Whealton Smith Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Phone: +1 757-336-6519
Take a Cruise to See Ponies and Dolphins
Gain a different perspective of the Chincoteague and Assateague islands by embarking on a cruise with Daisey’s Island Cruises. These guided nature tours on comfortable pontoon boats provide an opportunity to spot the wild ponies from the water, as well as other local wildlife such as dolphins and seabirds. For optimal wildlife viewing, consider taking an early morning cruise.
Address: 2246 Curtis Merritt Harbor Dr, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Phone: +1 757-336-5556
Climb Assateague Lighthouse
From April to November, ascend the 142-foot-tall Assateague Lighthouse, an iconic landmark that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Accessible by bicycle or on foot via the trail that connects Chincoteague and Assateague, the lighthouse provides a rewarding climb and a breathtaking vista from the top.
Address: Assateague Island National Seashore, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Phone: +1 757-336-3696
Take the Pony Express Trolley Ride
For a convenient and affordable way to navigate the island, hop aboard the Pony Express Trolley. With a fare of just 50 cents (or two tokens), the trolley route covers most of the island, connecting you to many of the area’s best motels, restaurants, shops, parks, recreational areas, ice cream parlors, and campgrounds.
Address: Chincoteague Island, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
With its captivating blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and family-friendly activities, top things to do on Chincoteague Island with kids promises an unforgettable vacation experience.
