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.
Kayaking
Kayaking
is a fun, adventurous activitiy for the entire family and it is a great
way to connect with nature. Guided
Kayak Tours along Assateague
Island National Seashore and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge offer
you a unique experience. See the famous Assateague Lighthouse and have
a chance to paddle alongside wild ponies, eagles, dolphins and a variety
of wildlife. Explore these protected barrier islands as you venture
into calm creeks, coves and a vast array of pristine inland waterways.
Free instructions are included during the tours.
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.
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