Island Hopping - Chincoteague and Assateague Islands

Before I move forward with my post for today, I would just like to pause for a moment in honor of those affected by the tragic events in Boston yesterday. It is hard to know what to say in such circumstances - my fellow bloggers say it far better than I ever could: here, here and here. My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Boston and anyone else affected today and the days ahead. 

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Let's head south today to two neighboring islands that are perfect for a family vacation:

 Chincoteague and Assateague Islands, Virginia/Maryland



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Immortalized by Marguerite Henry’s iconic children’s book, Misty of Chincoteague, Chincoteague and Assateague Islands are off the coast of Virginia and Maryland's Eastern Shore. Contrary to what I believed when I first read Misty when I was eight, Misty and Stormy are actually fictional characters, but the wild ponies that live on neighboring Assategue Island are very real. It is believed that the famous wild ponies are descendants of horses left behind when a Spanish galleon sank in the 1500's.

The annual pony swim, when ponies are rounded up on Assateague and actually swim across the narrow channel separating the two islands, is just one of the reasons visitors flock to the area.



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The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge encompasses more than 14,000 acres of beaches, dunes, marshes and forests, popular among beachgoers, kayakers and birdwatchers.

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DO:

See the wild ponies in their natural habitat. A great way to see them unobtrusively is by renting a kayak (http://coastalkayak.com/)

Climb to the top of Assateague Lighthouse.

Charter a boat to go deep sea fishing or just cruise around the islands.

Time your trip for the Annual Pony Swim.

Visit the Museum of Chincoteague.

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EAT:

Island Creamery is the go to spot for homemade ice cream.

Stop by Sea Star Cafe for great sandwiches.

Great southern food and BBQ is enjoyed outside at Woody's Beach BBQ.



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STAY:

There are quite a few mid-priced chain hotels, but for a more authentic experience opt for a quaint inn or bed & breakfast.

Miss Molly's is an adorable Victorian B & B, where in its previous incarnation as a boarding house, Marguerite Henry wrote Misty of Chincoteague.

The Refuge Inn is perfect for families - a laid back atmosphere with nature as it's decoration and a pool.

Next stop, Hatteras Island, North Carolina...