ASSATEAGUE ISLAND, VIRGINIA AND MARYLAND, UNITED STATES – FOR A UNIQUE COASTAL WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Assateague Island is a barrier island located off the coast of Maryland and Virginia in the United States. It is known for its pristine beaches, natural beauty, and wild horses that roam freely throughout the island. The island is divided into two sections: the Assateague Island National Seashore, which is managed by the National Park Service, and the Assateague State Park, which is managed by the state of Maryland.
The island is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and beachgoers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on the island, including hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The island’s beaches are wide and sandy, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. The waters surrounding the island are also popular for boating and fishing.
The wild horses that roam the island are a major attraction for visitors. These horses are believed to have descended from domesticated horses that were brought to the island by early settlers. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with long, shaggy manes and tails, and for their ability to survive in the island’s harsh environment.
In addition to the wild horses, Assateague Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, raccoons, and a variety of bird species. The island is also an important nesting ground for several species of sea turtles, including loggerheads and green turtles.
What Makes it a Destination Worth Visiting
Assateague Island is a destination worth visiting because of its unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The island is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the famous wild horses that roam freely throughout the island. These horses are a major draw for visitors, who come to see them in their natural habitat and learn about their history and behavior.
In addition to the wild horses, Assateague Island is also known for its beautiful beaches and scenic vistas. Visitors can hike along the island’s nature trails, go fishing or kayaking in the surrounding waters, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
The island is also an important conservation area, with a variety of habitats and ecosystems that support a diverse array of plant and animal life. Visitors can learn about the island’s ecology and conservation efforts at the Assateague Island Visitor Center, which offers exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours.
Popular Activities Enjoyed by Tourists
Assateague Island offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy, including:
- Beach activities: Assateague Island has miles of pristine beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and surfing.
- Wildlife viewing: The wild horses of Assateague Island are a major attraction for tourists, but the island is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including deer, foxes, raccoons, and a variety of bird species.
- Fishing: The waters surrounding Assateague Island are popular for fishing, with a variety of species available, including striped bass, bluefish, and flounder.
- Kayaking and canoeing: Visitors can explore the island’s waterways by kayak or canoe, with rental equipment available on the island.
- Hiking and biking: The island has several nature trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities for hiking and biking.
- Camping: Assateague Island has several campgrounds that offer both tent and RV camping options, as well as amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and picnic areas.
- Educational programs and guided tours: The Assateague Island Visitor Center offers a variety of educational programs and guided tours, including beach walks, birding tours, and horse watching tours.
Top Attractions and Must See Places
Here are some of the top attractions and must-see places in and around Assateague Island:
- The Assateague Island National Seashore: This is the main attraction on the island and is a protected area that stretches for over 37 miles along the Atlantic Coast. It features beautiful beaches, dunes, and marshland habitats that are home to a variety of wildlife.
- The Assateague Island Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse was built in 1867 and is located on the Virginia side of the island. It offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is open for tours during the summer months.
- The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge: This nearby wildlife refuge is located just across the channel from Assateague Island and is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, bald eagles, and the famous Chincoteague ponies.
- The NASA Wallops Flight Facility: This facility, located on the mainland near Assateague Island, offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and science of space exploration through exhibits, tours, and events.
- The town of Chincoteague: This charming seaside town is located just a few miles from Assateague Island and is known for its seafood restaurants, boutique shops, and the annual Pony Swim and Auction, which takes place each July.
- The Assateague Island Visitor Center: This center is a great place to start your visit to the island, with exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours that offer insight into the island’s history, ecology, and wildlife.
- The Ocean City Boardwalk: This nearby boardwalk is a popular destination for tourists, with amusement parks, arcades, shops, and restaurants, as well as beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Assateague Island depends on your preferences and what you want to do while you’re there. Here are some factors to consider:
- Weather: The summer months, from June to August, are the most popular time to visit Assateague Island because the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures in the mid-80s (Fahrenheit). However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect crowds and higher prices. Spring and fall can be more mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds, but the weather can be unpredictable and cooler.
- Events and festivals: The Pony Swim and Auction is the most popular event on Assateague Island, which takes place on the last Wednesday of July every year. This is a unique opportunity to see the famous Chincoteague ponies swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island. Other events and festivals throughout the year include the Chincoteague Seafood Festival in May, the Blueberry Festival in July, and the Oyster Festival in October.
- Wildlife viewing: If you’re interested in seeing the wild ponies and other wildlife on Assateague Island, the best time to visit is in the early morning or evening when the animals are most active. Spring and fall can be a good time to visit for birdwatching, as many migratory birds pass through the area.
