Assateague Island
Time Needed: multi-day
Experience Type: scenic views, wildlife
Assateague Island, stretching across Maryland and Virginia, is a coastal haven famous for wild horses, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can camp under the stars, hike or bike scenic trails, paddle waterways, and get immersed in the island’s unspoiled natural beauty.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Watch the Wild Horses – See Assateague’s iconic wild horses roam freely along the seashore. Snap photos and enjoy playful antics. Always observe from a respectful distance.
- Camp on the Beach – Spend a night under the stars at the national seashore campground. Enjoy the sounds of waves, pristine sandy beaches, and free-roaming wild horses.
- Ride a Bike – Explore Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge by bike. Ride through marshes, forests, and wildlife habitats, then climb the red-and-white Assateague Lighthouse in season.
- Paddle Waterways – Embark on a guided or solo paddle along shallow waterways. Spot wild horses, wading birds, and other wildlife in their natural environment.
- Make a Side Trip to Wallops Island – Witness a rocket launch at Wallops Island. Explore NASA exhibits, hands-on displays, and learn about space programs in the visitor center.
Itinerary Idea: Skip the hassle of navigating the barrier island and see Assateague’s wild ponies from the water on a guided boat tour from Chincoteague. Enjoy panoramic views, live narration, and chances to spot dolphins and eagles.
Photo Credit: Lisa Lowe/Unsplash