Our family found there was so many things to do in Chincoteague Va with kids! Below are the top 10 and lots of mom tips from me along the way!
Table of Contents Best Things to Do in Chincoteague with Kids
- National Wildlife Refuge & Assateague Island
- Active Things to Do (Pony Center, Ride Bikes & Climb Lighthouse)
- Chill Things to Do ( Museum & Boat Tour)
- Local Attractions (Creamery, Park, Souvenirs)
- Bonus
- Where to Stay
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So many Things to Do in Chincoteague Va!
During spring break, I visited Chincoteague with my two kids, and it completely stole our hearts. This charming island off the coast of Virginia is packed with kid-friendly adventures. From wild ponies and sandy beaches to creamy ice cream and pirate-themed boat rides, Chincoteague is the kind of place that lets kids explore, play, and learn—without long lines or big crowds. If you're planning a family trip from the DC area (like we did!), here’s your go-to list of the best things to do in Chincoteague VA with kids!
2 Top Things to Do in Chincoteague Va - See The Wild Ponies!
I wrote a whole blog post about the best places to see the wild ponies which I highly recommend checking out. The 2 main places are explained below!
1) Visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge — One of the Top Things to Do in Chincoteague VA
Our adventure started here, and it’s truly magical. Covering more than 14,000 acres, the refuge is home to diverse wildlife, including the famous Chincoteague ponies. We walked along stroller-friendly trails, spotted ponies in the marshes, and even saw deer peeking through the trees.
Website: Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Don’t Miss: The Woodland Trail's pony viewing platform — it was an easy, memorable walk for my kids.
Pro Tip: Bring binoculars and a kid-friendly bird guide to turn it into a fun scavenger hunt! We used our amazing SkyGenius 10 x 50 Binoculars to see 4-6 wild ponies into the marsh! My husband and I kept saying how amazing these binoculars worked and even the kids could use these. We now keep them in the back of the car for any spontaneous adventure.
2) Play at the Beach on Assateague Island — Fun Things to Do in Chincoteague VA with Kids
Assateague Island is a short drive or bike ride from Chincoteague. The gentle waves, endless shells, and soft sand are perfect for kids to splash and play. And if you want more beaches in the area, check them out here.
Website: Assateague Island National Seashore
Tip: Definitely pack snacks and beach toys—there aren't restaurants nearby, but the bathrooms and showers were super handy.
Fun Idea: You can make a beach treasure hunt with things like "find a crab" and "spot a cool shell." It kept the kids entertained for hours!
3) Stop by the Chincoteague Pony Centre — A Must-See for Families Exploring Things to Do in Chincoteague VA
If your kids are pony lovers like mine, the Pony Centre is a must!
Website: Chincoteague Pony Centre
Extra Fun: My daughter loved reading the original Misty of Chincoteague book by Marguerite Henry in 1947 before our trip. They also have an updated series called Misty Inn that takes place on the island in an elementary-age chapter book. The story is fictional although the characters still live in the town of Chincoteague! Paul and Maureen Beebe were real and their ranch still exists which you can visit!
We got ours from the library but you can also find on Amazon!
Active Attractions on Chincoteague Island, Virginia
4) Ride Bikes Around the Island — Active Things to Do in Chincoteague VA
Chincoteague is a flat and bike-friendly island, making it perfect for families who want to explore on two wheels. Bike rentals are available locally, and many come with child seats or trailers.
Recommended Rental: Bike Depot Chincoteague
Route Idea: Biking through the Wildlife Refuge to the beach is a favorite route for many families.
5) Climb to the Top of the Assateague Lighthouse
The historic Assateague Lighthouse offers a memorable experience for visitors. The 175-step climb is manageable for school-age kids and rewards you with breathtaking island views.
Website: Assateague Lighthouse Information
Fun Tip: Bring a water bottle for the climb, especially on warmer days.
Chiller Things to Do in Chincoteague Island Va - Museum and Boat Ride
One of our favorite things we did on Chincoteague Island was the Boat Ride which was so chill for toddlers to teens.
6) Take a Family-Friendly Boat Tour In and Around Chincoteague Va
Taking a boat tour was a highlight! We did a sunset cruise and spotted wild ponies, ospreys, and even a few dolphins.
Recommended Tours:
- From Chincoteague Island: Assateague Island Boat Tour
- Chincoteague: Assateague Island Sunset Boat Cruise
Pro Tip: Bring jackets! It got chilly on the water, even though it was warm on land.
7) Visit the Museum of Chincoteague Island
If you have a rainy day, check out the museum of Chincoteague Island! Don’t Miss: Seeing Misty and Stormy, the ponies from the famous books, and the interactive exhibits for kids.
Website: Museum of Chincoteague Island
Local Attractions in Chincoteague Island Va
8) Cool Off at Island Creamery
Island Creamery is a beloved local spot known for its homemade ice cream. Flavors like "Pony Tracks" and "Birthday Cake" are especially popular with kids.
Website: Island Creamery
Tip: Visit mid-afternoon to avoid the evening crowds.
9) Let Loose at the Robert N. Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
This waterfront park offers open space to run, a scenic boardwalk, and beautiful sunset views. It's a great spot to relax after a day of exploring.
Google Maps Location: Robert N. Reed Downtown Waterfront Park
Bonus: Check for free concerts or outdoor movies during your visit.
10) Shop for Souvenirs at MamerSass or Pony Tails
MamerSass and Pony Tails are two charming shops in downtown Chincoteague where families can find everything from plush ponies to handmade jewelry.
MamerSass: MamerSass Facebook
Pony Tails: Google Maps Location
Kid Favorites: Stuffed animals, shell necklaces, and beach toys.
Grown-up Picks: Local artwork, candles, and nautical gifts.
Bonus Activities in Chincoteague Va with Kids
- Kayaking: Perfect if your kids are a little older.
- Crabbing: Try your hand at catching (and releasing) blue crabs from the dock.
- Chincoteague Carnival (Seasonal): A local favorite if you're visiting in late June or July!
Where to Stay on Chincoteague Island Va
Here are a few family-friendly options across different price ranges:
- Budget-Friendly: Check out the Waterside Inn — With a heated outdoor pool, private fishing pier, and water views, Waterside Inn offers lots of family appeal at a great value.
- Mid-Range: The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Chincoteague Island — Families love the waterfront views, outdoor pool, and walkable location near downtown shops and restaurants.
- Luxury: For a special treat, check out Channel Bass Inn — A charming historic B&B features beautiful gardens, afternoon tea service, and a peaceful atmosphere. Best for families with older kids who can appreciate the quiet elegance.
Our spring break trip to Chincoteague was peaceful, packed with adventure, and completely kid-approved. We loved exploring the beaches, spotting wild ponies, visiting the museum, and taking a sunset boat tour. There's a special kind of magic on Chincoteague Island that makes it an unforgettable family destination.
Even beyond what we experienced, there are so many other activities families can enjoy—from climbing the historic lighthouse to biking through scenic trails, cooling off at Island Creamery, or relaxing at the waterfront park. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or a week, you'll quickly see why "things to do in Chincoteague VA" tops so many families' travel lists. And if you are looking for more Chesapeake Bay Beaches, check out this post!
