Is there anything better than a day at the beach? How about a day at the beach surrounded by wildlife? This is the experience you can look forward to when you travel to Assateague Island National Seashore. This hidden gem beach in Virginia is far from your typical shoreline. It’s part of a protected natural area whose ruggedness is all part of the charm. So be sure everything you take with you also leaves with you! Here’s more on the one-of-a-kind Assateague Island near Chincoteague, Virginia.
Assateague Island National Seashore is located on a barrier island off the coast of Virginia and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. It’s shared by the two states.
Google Map
The island is known for its stunning Atlantic beaches as well as the trails that wind through the marshy landscape.
Doug Kerr / flickr
To immerse yourself in the island’s wildlife, be sure to visit the stunning Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, located on the southern end of the island.
Hilary Menchen / Google
This 14,000-acre wildlife preserve is the Indigenous homelands of the Pocomoke and Occohannock people, and it’s characterized by marshes, beaches, dunes, and maritime forests.
John Brighenti / flickr
When you visit this natural space today, it’s vital to respect the environment and admire wildlife from afar. This ensures that the island will thrive for generations to come.
Timothy Pohlhaus / flickr The National Park Service recommends at least 40 feet between any horses or ponies you may spot. And be sure to never feed them!
In the Virginia district of the park, the horses are known as Chincoteague Ponies. They are fenced off in larger management areas. The Maryland horses are the ones that roam.
Doug Kerr / flickr
No matter how long you spend on the island, you’ll quickly discover that it’s a gem of a beach in Virginia.
Doug Kerr / flickr
Have you visited Assateague Island National Seashore? What did you think of this hidden gem beach in Virginia? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! For related content, check out more about the charming town of Chincoteague, Virginia.
Google Map
Doug Kerr / flickr
Hilary Menchen / Google
John Brighenti / flickr
Timothy Pohlhaus / flickr
The National Park Service recommends at least 40 feet between any horses or ponies you may spot. And be sure to never feed them!
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Address: Assateague Island, United States
