Chincoteague Beach is located on Virginia’s only resort island on the eastern shore, Chincoteague. It is famous for oyster beds, wild horses and so much more. Read on to find out why we think Chincoteague Beach is the beach vacation we all deserve.

If you've never visited Chincoteague Beach or Chincoteague Island on the Eastern Shore, you are missing out on one of the most enchanting natural settings in the United States. As the gateway to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, this charming barrier island is one of Virginia's most beloved natural treasures.

Just a scenic 3-hour drive from Washington, D.C., Chincoteague offers the ideal escape for a long weekend--or an extended stay. The island invites you to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature. From the gentle waves and sandy shoreline to the breathtaking sunsets over Chincoteague Bay, the peaceful atmosphere here is second to none.

Located on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Chincoteague Beach provides direct access to the pristine Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on neighboring Assateague Island. This protected sanctuary is widely considered the crown jewel of the Eastern Shore.

7 Reasons To Visit Chincoteague Beach

1. Oysters

The Eastern Shore is known for its famous oyster beds and clam shoals, but Chincoteague's oysters are a true local delicacy. These oysters are celebrated for their large size (3.5 inches), thick shells, and distinct briny flavor thanks to the high salinity of local waters. Whether you're a seasoned oyster lover or trying them for the first time, this is the place to indulge.

One of the best places to enjoy Chincoteague oysters? Sugar Water Restaurant, where chefs serve fresh Chincoteague oysters on the half shell, simply prepared to highlight their natural flavor. Sourced locally and served with seasonal accompaniments, these oysters are a guest favorite and a perfect way to experience the unique taste of the Eastern Shore. Whether enjoyed as a starter or paired with a craft cocktail, they offer a refreshing taste of the region.

Here at the farm and at our restaurant we work with Tom’s Cove Aquafarms. Tom and his crew grow oysters and clams that we use everyday at the restaurant. If you get a chance when on the Island be sure to stop and say hi and enjoy some at Sugar Water.

If you prefer to prepare them yourself, stop by one of the island's many seafood markets and bring a dozen back to your lodge house or fireside at Sugar Water Manor.

2. The Beach

Chincoteague Beach is perfect for those who want a mix of fun and tranquility. With both wild and recreational beach areas, it offers something for everyone--from shell collecting and swimming to sunbathing and surf fishing. Toms Cove Hook and the over-sand vehicle (OSV) zone are popular spots for adventure seekers.

Start your day early at the beach, then head back to Sugar Water Manor for a relaxing afternoon. Morning visits mean cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, so wake up and get the day started.

3. Unique Lodgings

From waterfront inns and family-friendly motels to charming B&Bs and upscale vacation rentals, Chincoteague Island offers a wide range of accommodations. Given the island's modest size--just seven miles long and three miles wide--availability can go quickly, especially during peak seasons. The good news is that no matter where you stay, you're only a short drive from beaches, shops, dining, and so much more.

Why not experience the best of both worlds? Split your stay between the beach and Sugar Water Manor, where farm-style serenity and luxury lodging come together. Located just a short drive away, Sugar Water Manor provides a peaceful home base with access to the island, plus an amazing pool and views of rural Eastern Shore beauty.

The Washington Hotel is another wonderful option for lodging when visiting Chincoteague. Just a 45 minutes drive to Chincoteague or other Eastern Shore hot spots like Berlin, St. Michaels or Ocean City the Washington Hotel is perfectly located between it all plus a delicious breakfast or brunch is included in your stay.

4. The Wild Horses

One of the island's most famous residents is the herd of wild ponies that roam Assateague and Chincoteague Islands. You'll often catch them grazing along the marshes or wandering through the dunes, and they've become a must-see for visitors of all ages. While they're undeniably majestic, remember to keep your distance--these animals are wild and can be unpredictable.

The two herds are separated by a fence at the Maryland-Virginia state line. The National Park Service oversees the Maryland herd, while the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company manages the Virginia herd. Scenic boat tours and pony observation decks offer excellent views without disrupting the horse's natural behavior.

And if you're looking for a more personal (and safe!) animal encounter during your trip, Sugar Water Manor is also home to a few friendly donkeys who love to greet guests. Unlike the wild ponies, Sugar Waters' donkeys enjoy attention and are part of the charming farm experience offered with a stay in one of its lodgings. They're a guest favorite and a perfect way to connect with the peaceful spirit of the Eastern Shore.

5. Chincoteague Pony Swim

Each July, Chincoteague comes alive for its most celebrated tradition--the Pony Swim. On the last Wednesday of the month, the Virginia herd swims across the Assateague Channel to Chincoteague Island. After the crossing, the ponies are paraded through town to Chincoteague Carnival Grounds, where select foals are auctioned off the next day. The event supports the local fire department and helps manage the herd population. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that draws visitors from across the country.

6. Assateague Island

No trip to Chincoteague Beach is complete without exploring Assateague Island. Stretching 37 miles along the Atlantic, this undeveloped barrier island is known for its wild ponies, dunes, and quiet beaches. Whether you're hiking, biking, birdwatching, or simply unwinding by the waves, Assateague offers a peaceful contrast to busier coastal destinations.

7. Extend Your Adventure: Stay at Sugar Water Manor

While Chincoteague offers sun, sand, and salt air, Sugar Water Manor provides the perfect inland sanctuary to unwind after your beach adventures. Located just a short drive from the island in Westover, Maryland, Sugar Water is a beautifully restored 115-acre farm property where hospitality meets tranquility. It's the ideal place to balance coastal excitement with rural peace and quiet.

Guests staying at Sugar Water Manor enjoy the best of both worlds--easy access to Chincoteague Beach by day, and restful evenings surrounded by woodlands, meadows, and waterfront views. The property offers three thoughtfully designed locations--The Loft, The Homestead, and The Farmhouse--each with its own charm and modern comforts. Whether you're sipping coffee on a private porch or stargazing by the fire pit, Sugar Water Manor invited you to slow down and savor every moment.

The farm experience is as authentic as it is soothing. Spend time walking forest trails, relaxing by the pool, or saying hello to the resident goats, chickens, and donkeys who love to greet guests. If you're craving movement or mindfulness, you'll find relaxing spots close to the river--perfect for take a moment to yourself after a day at the beach.

For those who like to pair relaxation with exception food, Sugar Water Restaurant---located just minutes away at the Washington Hotel--offers elevated farm-and-water-to-table dining that highlights local ingredients, including oysters and lobsters from Chincoteague.

Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a romantic retreat, or a longer stay to explore all that the Eastern Shore has to offer, Sugar Water Manor makes the experience personal, peaceful, and unforgettable. It's not just a place to stay--it's a place to reset, reconnect, and rediscover the simple joys of slowing down.