Chincoteague, Virginia: the perfect family vacation spot you've been sleeping on
Pack your bags for Chincoteague, Virginia: the ultimate summer family vacation destination that you've likely overlooked until now—and need to visit stat.
Known for its wild ponies, unspoiled nature, and relaxed atmosphere, this small island off the coast of Virginia's Eastern Shore offers the perfect balance of leisure and outdoor adventure for the whole fam to enjoy.
I recently visited Chincoteague, VA with my husband, toddler, and baby bump for a family vacation-slash-babymoon. From sunny beach days to long nature walks, sunset dinners on the sand, and even an up-close wild pony encounter, we left the island with sun tans, full bellies, happy hearts, and incredible memories that we still gush about to anyone who will listen. Our first trip to Chincoteague certainly won't be our last.
Here's your go-to Chincoteague family guide to eating, exploring, kicking back, and taking in everything that Virginia's only resort island has to offer.
When planning our babymoon to Chincoteague, I wanted modern, family-friendly accommodations that put the 'home' in home base versus a hotel—and Key West Cottages truly delivered.
This new and luxurious resort features 38 cottages right on the bay and is within walking distance to many top Chincoteague restaurants and attractions. From the pastel hues to the waterfront views, the resort felt like a tropical paradise; I couldn't believe I was just a short drive from my New Jersey home.
We stayed in a nautical-themed, one-bedroom cottage complete with a spacious living room and full kitchen, which meant I could easily store snacks and make breakfast for my toddler (a huge time and money saver).
When traveling with children, having a clean, cozy, and comfy retreat to unwind in between activities is crucial for everyone. While my daughter took her afternoon nap, my husband fished off the pier and I read my book on our private porch (vacation mode, activated!).
Everyone's favorite part? The heated outdoor pool, which is open year-round and features a shallow end and toddler-friendly waterslide that my daughter went down 487 times (rough estimate).
Other amenities include:
Private bayside beach with fire pits and lounge chairs
Onsite outdoor activities: complimentary bicycles, kayak launch, fishing, and crabbing
Sunset pier
Option for late checkout at 12 p.m. (parents, this is an extra $45 well spent!)
Whether you're looking to book a weekend getaway or an extended week-long trip, this luxury Chincoteague resort for families will check all your boxes.
Wild ponies roam freely around the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on Assateague Island, woven deeply into the fabric of the town's history and community (legend has it they arrived via shipwreck in the 16th century). No trip to Chincoteague is complete without a wild horse sighting—and here are the best ways to catch a glimpse:
Drive or bike around Assateague Island on Beach Road and you'll likely see the horses grazing from a distance.
The Assateague Explorer boat tour is a great option for up-close views of the ponies in the marshes
Plan your summer vacation around the annual pony swim, a world-famous, week-long celebration in late July where the ponies are herded across the Assateague Channel and paraded through town; the event is followed by an auction and big carnival.
For a hands-on experience, we took our daughter to the Chincoteague Pony Farm (next to The Bike Depot), where she could safely pet and feed a herd of ponies.
Chincoteague and Assateague Islands are brimming with natural beauty—from pristine shorelines to diverse wildlife and jaw-dropping sunsets. The area is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and relaxation enthusiasts alike—and here are some fun ways to take it all in with the family:
Embark on a guided boat cruise or kayak tour. These eco-adventures grant you up-close wildlife encounters, scenic views, and plenty of fun facts about the island's unique ecosystem.
Visit the historic Assateague Lighthouse. My family and I just enjoyed the photo op in front of the iconic striped landmark, but during high season, it's open to visitors on weekends from 9am-3pm (free admission).
Enjoy a beach day on Assateague Beach. With 37 miles of sandy shoreline, it's a great spot to sunbathe, swim, fish, and maybe spot some ponies. If you're traveling with children, beware of strong currents and swim in a designated area with on-duty lifeguards.
Hike the nature trails. The 3.25-mile paved Wildlife Loop through the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is great for birdwatching; also, the Life of the Marsh trail is stroller friendly and features a half-mile boardwalk through the salt marsh. Don't forget bug spray!
Rent bikes and use the designated bike trails and lanes to explore both islands.
Walk along Main Street in Chincoteague; you can pop in and out of art galleries, bookstores, and souvenir shops, then do a lap around Robert Reed Park and snap a pic at the infamous LOVE chairs. The long stretches of sidewalk were ideal for our morning stroller walks.
Brianna's Kindness Park features a toddler-friendly sensory playground so the kids can run their energy out.
There is no shortage of great spots to eat and drink in Chincoteague.
When mealtime approaches on vacation, my husband and I seek out local fare, delicious cocktails, and excellent vibes; our daughter, however, just wants a kid's menu, entertainment, and ice cream. These top Chincoteague restaurants for families delivered on food and atmosphere for all—and many of them were walkable (with the stroller) from our resort:
For casual waterfront dining, head to Ropewalk, where you can feast on crabcakes, stick your toes in the sand, vibe out to live music, enjoy epic sunset views, and let your little ones run amok on the playground while you sip an orange crush (or three). The kid's menu is expansive and more importantly, comes served on a souvenir frisbee.
Pico Taqueria is an island staple, serving up gourmet artisanal tacos made with locally sourced ingredients (I went back for seconds of The Main Street taco). The shoes-optional, outdoor atmosphere is chill and the cocktails tasted so fresh, we lingered for a few rounds while our daughter played in the sand.
Check out the specialty food trucks around the island, including Having a Meltdown for sandwiches, K&J Teriyaki for Korean fare, Cosa for wood-fire pizza, and Better. for some healthier options. Added perk: they're dog-friendly if you're traveling with your pup.
Get your caffeine fix at Main Street Coffee House or AmaRin Coffee (both spots have adorable indoor and outdoor seating for your well-deserved coffee break).
For a grab-and-go breakfast delight, don't skip Sandy Pony Donuts for warm specialty donuts, acai bowls, and smoothies—the long line is worth the wait!
Must-visit ice cream spots in Chincoteague: Mr. Whippy for soft serve, Island Creamery for homemade scoops, and BYOC (Build Your Own Cookie) to craft your own cookie sundae.
History lessons on vacation can be fun (yes seriously!). Discover local hot spots, hidden gems, and local history with kid-friendly activities to keep little ones engaged:
Ponies, pirates, and seafood samplers—the various Chincoteague Step Through Time Walking Tours let you get your steps in and immerse yourself in the town's rich and unique history (about 1.5 hours long).
The Museum of Chincoteague Island offers a scavenger hunt and touch area for kids, plus a new Beebe Ranch exhibit (open Tuesday-Saturday).
Learn all about NASA's 80-year history on the shore at the NASA Wallops Island Visitor Center, which features an interactive section for kids (open Thursday-Saturday with free admission).
Heading to Virginia's Eastern Shore? Here are my top five vacation beauty essentials and accessories that I couldn't leave home without:
SOL Labs Natural Mineral SPF 50 Sheer Mist
My fair-skinned two-year-old needs SPF 50, my pregnant self needs mineral sunscreen, and my husband will only use a spray formula. Luckily, this lightweight, natural sheer sunscreen mist sprays on invisibly, doesn't feel sticky, and nourishes skin—I feel good about using it on the whole family.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Glow Reviver Lip Balm
Buttery soft, nourishing, and the perfect amount of healthy-looking shine and subtle color—this hydrating tinted lip balm feels luxurious but is super affordable ($9!) and I can't stop reaching for it day in and day out.
Sunday Afternoons Kauai Hat
The summer sun in Virginia is unforgiving, so a wide-brim hat topped my packing list. This one shielded my face and neck while I was poolside and on the beach with UV protection—it also folds up well in a suitcase and even more importantly, looked great in photos.
Addoklm Extra Large Rubber Beach Bag
Does it look like a gigantic Croc with handles? Yes. But does it also hold three big towels and all your beach paraphernalia? Sure does. And can you easily hose the sand off at day's end because it's rubber? Indeed. Function over fashion sometimes reigns supreme (although I think it's kind of cute!).
SEEN Hair Care Travel Trio
Even when I'm on a carefree beach vacation, I want my hair to feel good and look good. This travel kit features a trio of mini clean haircare essentials—shampoo, conditioner, and blow-out cream—to help reduce frizz and nourish my mane on the go.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
5 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Millennial moms dropped $1,500 to see the Backstreet Boys. For a night of nostalgia, it was worth every cent.
For one night in Vegas, grown-up kids pressed pause on responsibilities, cranked up the memories and let the soundtrack of their youth take center stage. If you see a gaggle of girls in Las Vegas dressed in all white right now, it's because they're ready to turn back the clock. Descending in packs of three, four, sometimes 10, they spill into casino lobbies across the famed Strip, accessorizing their '90s-inspired looks with butterfly clips, body glitter and the unmistakable hum of a chorus so inescapable that you know it the moment you hear it. They're in town to see the Backstreet Boys take the stage at the Sphere, and for two hours, millennial women — moms, professionals, lifelong friends — are ready to reclaim and re-create their youth. 'I want to relive my childhood memories,' Lauren, 33, from Grand Rapids, Mich., tells Yahoo, just hours before the boy band took the stage on Aug. 8. 'This was the music I grew up on.' Lauren traveled to Nevada with her two best friends: Betsy, 33, from Columbus, Ind., and Megan, 32, also from Grand Rapids. I sat next to them at Casa Playa, a Mexican restaurant at the Wynn Las Vegas, one of at least a dozen tables where girlfriends from all walks of life were catching up before making the trek to the venue. There, the Backstreet Boys would be playing the 13th show of a residency that has likely made its way into the social media feeds of anyone who came of age while the band was in maximum rotation on MTV. For Lauren and her friends, an evening of joy was priceless. But that doesn't mean revisiting the '90s for a weekend came cheap. For each of the women, airfare to Las Vegas was around $700, the Wynn stay was roughly $500 a night and their concert ticket cost totaled $1,337. A budget for merch? Unlimited, they said. The splurge was worth it. "It took a little convincing," Betsy said of her husband, who stayed home to watch their almost-2-year-old. 'He said Vegas was unsafe, and I said, 'It's not unsafe when you go [without me].'' Laughter rippled across the table, one of many echoes in the room of women buzzing for a long-awaited girls' night out. This trip, like so many others that evening, was about millennials carving out a moment for themselves while embracing fun, friendship and pure nostalgia. Moms deserve a '90s kid summer, too A big talking point among parents is the '90s kid summer trend, which is about encouraging children to have carefree days reminiscent of mom and dad's own experiences growing up: less screen time, more real-world fun. In Las Vegas, this applied to the caregivers. For the hundreds of millennial moms who flocked to the Sphere, experiencing the summers of their youth again meant slipping into their best white outfits — a nod to the 25th anniversary of the Backstreet Boys' Millennium album — moving the group chat to IRL, and singing and dancing the night away… while leaving their offspring at home. I grew up more of an NSync fan, but even I couldn't resist the allure of a girls' trip with five of my closest friends who I've known for nearly 20 years, including my college roommate. Among the four of us, we left eight kids in the care of their dads. Using a getaway card on the Backstreet Boys was a no-regrets move. Not one person in my group, or the 20 people I spoke with after the show, left disappointed. The boy band, which released its first single, 'We've Got It Goin' On' in 1995, delivered a high-energy performance and catered exactly to the audience they knew was there to see them. Our experience wasn't unique — it was universal. Courtney and Meg, best friends since age 8, had been planning this trip since February, when the Backstreet Boys announced their summer residency. Now 36, they hadn't seen each other in nearly two years, with life keeping them busy in Texas and Wisconsin, respectively. Between them, their children range in age from 4 to 12, but for one night, their mom responsibilities were happily checked at the door. Leaving their families wasn't cheap or simple, but the pair said the trip, which averaged around $1,500 per person, was worth every penny. 'It was the best time of our lives," they tell me in unison. As the crowd funneled into the Sphere, it was clear this wasn't just a concert — it was a reunion of both friends and memories. The crowd, a sea of white, stretched across the venue. Heels clacked against polished floors, glitter and sequins caught the lights. Groups chatted animatedly, reminiscing about study abroad adventures, trading parenting war stories or soaking up a rare night of freedom. "Oh God, I just checked the Nanit," I heard one woman murmur to her friends, glancing at her app that logs into a baby camera in her daughter's room. "She literally didn't sleep once today." "Put that phone away! This is our night," her friend replied. "Your daughter is with your parents; she's in good hands. Now let's go get a drink." Making my way across the room, I spoke with Brittany, 34; Jen, 42 and Felicia, 35, who became close friends after meeting at their kids' competitive cheerleading practices. When the trio, who traveled together from Denver, learned that the Backstreet Boys would be doing a summer residency, they jumped at the chance to go. Their tickets — $254 apiece, the cheapest I heard all night — were a steal. They spent around $700 for their hotel room. When I asked what they were all-in, cost-wise, Jen shrugged it off: 'Who f***ing cares? We came to have fun.' 'Fun' money While some moms savored a night off from parenting duties, others in the crowd were there to indulge in the freedom and discretionary spending that comes with having different responsibilities. For millennials without kids, the Backstreet Boys residency was an excuse to treat themselves. Haley, 38, from Houston, summed it up best when I asked her why she wanted to travel to Las Vegas for the show: 'Money and availability.' "We have disposable income and no children," said Haley, who made the trip with two of her closest girlfriends. "We have no commitments. We have the flexibility to go on a whim and we get to spend our money and have fun for ourselves." Haley didn't have to run her finances past anyone but herself. "It's unlimited," she said. "All of our budget, at this point, is unlimited. It's all fun money." For Haley's group, she said flights, hotel and ticket prices clocked in around $500 per person, and anyone who's traveled to Vegas knows that's just the starting line. A single cocktail at the Wynn runs about $17 before tip, and even without alcohol, a meal rarely comes in under $50. For the millennials at the show, the expense wasn't a deterrent; it was part of the experience. A millennium of memories Once the boy band took the stage, all bets were off. The 25-track set kicked off with 'Larger Than Life,' which marked the concert's celebratory tone. Perhaps the biggest difference in watching the Backstreet Boys in 2025 compared to 30 years ago was the sea of iPhones capturing every moment. The group poked fun at that during their performance of "Don't Want You Back" as Nokia phones flashed on the giant screens in a reference to the technology of the era. When the fivesome asked who still had their Backstreet Boys CDs, the Sphere erupted. But the loudest cheers came when they asked the crowd who was there enjoying a ladies' night; there were so many 'Woooooos!' you literally felt the Sphere vibrate with excitement. 'Is this the best night ever? I think this is the best night ever,' two girls in front of us said to each other, before snapping a selfie during 'Everybody." It wasn't just the music, but how Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson worked the crowd together. At one point, the men threw their hats into the crowd, a sight I hadn't seen since 2005. They even led roughly 20,000 fans in a friendly competition over which side of the audience could scream the loudest. With hits like "As Long as You Love Me" and "I Want It That Way," the group delivered every note, dance move and throwback thrill that fans had been craving. It wasn't lost on the singers that millennials are deliberate in how they spend their hard-earned money, and they were spending it on them. "It's because of each and every one of you showing up that we have a job," Littrell, 50, told the sold-out crowd. Even in the worst section at the Sphere (110, to be exact), it was all worth it for the sing-along I had with some of my closest girlfriends. 'My only complaint? Why did we only do 24 hours in Vegas?' my friend Katie said. (We all agreed.) 'We should have done two nights. I would have gone back again.' Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
5 minutes ago
- Yahoo
North Lake Tahoe's hidden joys: 7 soulful escapes beyond the crowds
From hand-fed chickadees to lakeside hikes and paddleboard adventures, discover the quieter side of Tahoe that locals love. Lake Tahoe may be famous for its cobalt waters and world-class skiing, but North Lake Tahoe whispers a different kind of magic. Here, the pace slows, the crowds thin, and nature takes center stage. Whether you're hiking to a rock shaped like a monkey's head or paddling past boulders toward a historic lodge, these soulful escapes offer something deeper than a checklist — they offer connection. Here are seven unforgettable ways to experience North Lake Tahoe beyond the usual tourist trail. 1. Feed Chickadees at Chickadee Ridge It's not every day you get to play Snow White in the wild. At Chickadee Ridge near Incline Village, you can hike or snowshoe to a quiet spot where mountain chickadees will literally eat from your hand. Bring birdseed, hold out your palm, and wait. The flutter of tiny wings and the gentle peck of a beak is pure joy — for kids and adults alike. 2. Paddle to Thunderbird Lodge with Tahoe Adventure Company Curious what it's like to paddle past boulders and into Tahoe's wild heart? Watch the video above for a firsthand look at this unforgettable adventure. For a summer experience that blends serenity and storytelling, join a guided kayak tour to Thunderbird Lodge. You'll paddle through crystal-clear waters, past iconic Bonsai Rock, and land at the only undeveloped stretch of Lake Tahoe's shoreline. The historic lodge offers a glimpse into Tahoe's past, while the journey itself — framed by jagged peaks and emerald coves — feels timeless. 3. Hike to Monkey Rock This moderate 2.5-mile hike near Incline Village leads to a quirky rock formation that resembles a monkey's head. But the real reward is the sweeping view of Lake Tahoe from the top. Start at the Tunnel Creek Trailhead and follow the well-marked path. It's a short trek with a big payoff — perfect for sunrise or sunset. 4. Cruise Emerald Bay on the Tahoe Gal Hop aboard a classic paddle-wheeler for a relaxing cruise from Tahoe City to Emerald Bay. The Tahoe Gal offers brunch, lunch, and dinner voyages, each with panoramic views of the lake and mountains. Along the way, you'll spot Vikingsholm Castle and cascading waterfalls — all while sipping a cocktail or soaking up the sun. 5. Stroll the Tahoe East Shore Trail Dubbed 'America's Most Beautiful Bikeway,' this paved trail from Incline Village to Sand Harbor is equally stunning on foot. Interpretive signs share stories of the region's geology and wildlife, while the views — sandy beaches, scattered boulders, and turquoise water — speak for themselves. It's accessible, scenic, and soul-soothing. 6. Savor Breakfast at Fire Sign Cafe Before your day begins, fuel up at Fire Sign Cafe in Tahoe City. This cozy cabin-style diner serves Texas-sized portions of pancakes, omelets, and breakfast burritos. The food is hearty, the service warm, and the vibe pure mountain charm — the kind of place where locals linger and visitors feel instantly at home. If you're curious about where to eat, sleep, and play in Tahoe City, we've got a full guide to help you plan the perfect stop in this lakeside gem. 7. Zip Through the Pines at Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parks If you're craving a thrill, head to one of North Tahoe's treetop adventure parks. With zip lines, rope bridges, and aerial courses for all skill levels, it's a playful way to engage with the forest. Whether you're six or sixty, the rush of flying through the pines is unforgettable. Why North Lake Tahoe Stays With You North Lake Tahoe isn't just a destination — it's a feeling. It's the hush of the forest, the sparkle of the lake, and the joy of discovering something unexpected. Whether you come for the chickadees or the kayak tours, you'll leave with more than photos. You'll leave with a story. Solve the daily Crossword
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftal-athleta-fall-sale-tout-e3adb023d8ce48fd9992e1a9dfc2b4ed.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
7 minutes ago
- Travel + Leisure
Comfy Travel Clothes Start at $39 During Athleta's Fall Travel Sale—Snag Wrinkle-free Pants, Sweatshirts, and More
Summer is one of the most popular seasons to travel, but in our opinion, fall wins for best vacation clothing. The unpredictable temperature means lightweight layers, fun jackets, and cozy sweatshirts are a must for travel days, exploring new cities, and everyday wear. If your wardrobe could use a refresh of these pieces, head to Athleta's huge sale on fall clothing happening now through August 24. Wrinkle-resistant travel pants, trench coats, long-sleeve T-shirts, and more transitional staples are on sale for 30 percent off. Shop top picks from the editor-loved brand while prices start at just $39. All About Medium Crossbody Bag, $49 (originally $69) Diem Fanny Pack, $42 (originally $59) Crosstrain High-Rise Jogger, $77 (originally $109) Intuition Ultra High-Rise Cotton Legging, $63 (originally $89) Pinnacle High-Rise Trouser, $91 (originally $129) Essential Top, $39 (originally $55) Coaster Luxe Recover High-Hip Sweatshirt, $46 (originally $65) Seasoft Quarter-Zip, $63 (originally $89) Retreat Linen Top, $70 (originally $99) Rainout Ridge Long Trench, $140 (originally $199) Whether you're looking for your gate at the airport or spending the day exploring monuments and museums, traveling requires a bag that keeps all of your belongings secure while allowing you to remain hands-free. Athleta has a wide variety of crossbody bags, including the All About Bag made from a flexible material that expands to hold all of your items, including a book, water bottle, wallet, and more. Snag this bag in black or navy blue ahead of your next getaway while it's on sale. Between air-conditioned airplanes and fall's impending chilly weather, a warm quarter-zip sweatshirt is a smart layer for travel days. This piece, which comes in six color options, is made from a spandex-blend material that allows easy airflow, and it's wrinkle-resistant for easy packing. It has more than 2,700 five-star reviews, and one person said it 'feels like butter on the skin' and is 'like a luxury experience while wearing it.' Fall is the season of layering, which means your closet needs a lightweight T-shirt that can be worn solo or under a jacket, sweatshirt, or cardigan. This long-sleeve top is made from a breathable cotton and spandex material, comes in six neutral colors, and will be an everyday staple for transitional weather. Plus, it's machine washable and can be tumbled dry for easy maintenance. Travel days require comfortable clothing, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. These high-rise trousers are made from a lightweight and stretchy material that is 'flattering' and 'fluid,' according to customers. The pants have an elastic waistband and are wrinkle-resistant for all-day wear, plus, they feature a pleated detail on the front of each leg that adds a dressy touch. Snag these for work, vacations, and running errands in eight colors. Keep scrolling to shop more top picks from Athleta's fall sale while they're 30 percent off. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
