Assateague Beach

The beach at Assateague is always changing due to the consistent storms that influence this windswept barrier island. Many visitors travel here for the cool sea breezes and some to find solitude at Assateague's remote beach areas. Lifeguarded beaches are available at each end of Assateague during the summer months. Sea shell collecting is fantastic here but be sure to take only what you need. Surf-fishing, wildlife viewing, crabbing, beach four-wheel driving, sunbathing, and swimming in the cool ocean waves are just a few things you will find to do here.

Wildlife Cruise

This wildlife cruise along Assateague and Chincoteague Island is offered by Assateague Explorer, departing from Chincoteague Island. See the different herds of wild ponies that roam freely all over Assataegue, search for dolphins in summer & fall, encounter the many species of birds including bald eagles, and discover hidden Assateague and Chincoteague. The tour is given by a former park ranger and a native of Chincoteague. Call (757) 336-5956 for more information and reservations.

Wildlife Viewing

The Chicoteague National Wildlife Refuge is famous for birdwatching due in part to its prime location along the Atlantic Flyway which makes it a vital resting and feeding area for hundreds of different kinds of migratory birds. The refuge is located on the Virginia end of Assateague Island and is one of the most popular in the United States. Many visitors choose to bike along the bike paths while others enjoy the miles of Assateague and Chincoteague coastline by taking wildlife voyages by boat. Wild Ponies, horseshoe crabs, shellfish, waterfowl and a great variety of birds can be found while you explore the natural features of this unique ecosystem. Each November, the refuge sponsors a program known as Waterfowl Week so that visitors may observe and learn more about wintering waterfowl.

Wildlife Regulations

It is against the rules to feed the ponies, deer, or other wildlife while at Assateague. Feeding can encourage wild animals to become less afraid of humans and sometimes potentially more dangerous as well. Feeding also encourages them to stay along the roads where they can be hit by cars. Please help keep the wild in the wildlife.

Pets

Pets are prohibited at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Assateague National Seashore (Virginia side), Assateague State Park, backcountry campsites and in the primitive area north of the State Park.

Safety

Get off the beach during lightning storms. Use the lifeguarded beaches when necessary. Surfboards and tubes are prohibited on lifeguarded beaches. Watch surf and local weather report forecasts before your vacation. Avoid overexposure to the sun, which can cause heat exhaustion and/or severe sunburn. Bring footwear for hot sand on beaches. Be cautious if you approach ponies closely. Wild Ponies can kick and bite. Guard against poison ivy, ticks and mosquitos. To avoid getting bitten, stay on the trails, explore remote areas of Assateague by boat and use repellents. Inspect yourself carefully if you do walk through tall grass.