Whether you’re visiting Chincoteague Island for the first time or returning for another favorite getaway, a weekend on Virginia’s Eastern Shore offers the perfect mix of relaxation, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. From waterfront sunsets and fresh local seafood to wild ponies, beautiful beaches, and scenic nature trails, every day brings something new to discover.
Located on the waterfront and just minutes from Assateague Island, the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, local restaurants, shops, and family-friendly attractions, Tom’s Cove Park is the perfect home base for exploring everything Chincoteague has to offer. Whether you’re planning a weekend RV camping trip or an extended stay, you’ll enjoy convenient access to the island’s top attractions while returning each evening to peaceful waterfront views.
Here’s one way to spend a memorable weekend on Chincoteague Island.
Friday: Arrive and Settle into Island Time
Vacation begins the moment you pull into Tom’s Cove Park.
After checking in and getting your RV or campsite set up, take a few minutes to explore the campground. Walk along the marina, watch the boats come and go, or simply enjoy the waterfront views as you ease into vacation mode.
When it’s time for dinner, head into town for fresh local seafood. Enjoy classic Eastern Shore favorites like oysters, crab cakes, shrimp, and locally caught fish at popular restaurants such as The Village Restaurant, a longtime island favorite known for its fresh seafood and welcoming atmosphere, or Bill’s PRIME Seafood & Steaks, where you can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes along with waterfront views. If you’re looking for a more casual evening, AJ’s on the Creek is another great option for seafood and sunset views.
As the day winds down, return to Tom’s Cove Park to catch one of the island’s beautiful sunsets. Watching the sky reflect across the water is the perfect reminder that vacations aren’t about rushing from place to place, they’re about slowing down and enjoying the moment.
Saturday: Discover the Best of Chincoteague
Start Your Morning with Coffee by the Water
Wake up early, brew a fresh cup of coffee, and enjoy a quiet morning overlooking the water at Tom’s Cove Park. Before the island begins to buzz with activity, you’ll be treated to calm views, cool morning air, and maybe even a few local birds beginning their day.
Browse the Chincoteague Farmers & Artisans Market
On Saturday mornings, stop by the Chincoteague Farmers & Artisans Market, where you’ll find local produce, homemade baked goods, handcrafted items, artwork, jams, honey, and other treasures from local vendors. It’s a great opportunity to take home a unique souvenir while supporting the local community.
Climb the Assateague Lighthouse
Next, head over to the Assateague Lighthouse, one of the area’s most recognizable landmarks. During the summer climbing season, visitors can make the climb to the top for panoramic views of Chincoteague Island, Assateague Island, the marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean. Even if you don’t make the climb, the lighthouse is well worth a visit and offers fantastic photo opportunities.
Spend the Afternoon at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
After lunch, make your way to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, located on neighboring Assateague Island. Explore one of the scenic walking trails, keep an eye out for the famous wild ponies, and enjoy spotting shorebirds, herons, egrets, and other wildlife throughout the refuge.
Whether you’re taking a leisurely walk or spending several hours exploring, it’s one of the best ways to experience the island’s natural beauty.
End the Day with a Sunset Walk on the Dock
As evening settles over the island, head back to Tom’s Cove Park for one last adventure of the day. A walk along the dock at sunset. Watch the sky fill with shades of orange and pink, listen to the gentle sounds of the water, and take in the quiet beauty that makes evenings on Chincoteague so special.
Sunday: One Last Island Adventure
Hunt for Seashells at Assateague Beach
Before heading home, spend the morning at Assateague Beach. Walk along the shoreline searching for seashells, enjoy the sound of the waves, or simply take a stroll on one of Virginia’s most beautiful beaches. Early mornings often offer cooler temperatures and a quieter experience, making it the perfect way to begin your final day.
Treat Yourself to Island Creamery
No visit to Chincoteague is complete without a stop at Island Creamery. Known for its homemade ice cream and creative seasonal flavors, it’s a favorite tradition for both visitors and locals alike.
Finish with a Round of Mini Golf
If time allows before heading home, challenge your family to a friendly game of mini golf at Surfside Golf. The colorful miniature golf course has been part of Chincoteague vacations for generations and offers a fun way to wrap up your weekend together.
Until Next Time
Every great weekend has to come to an end, but Chincoteague has a way of leaving you wanting just one more sunset, one more beach walk, and one more day by the water. As you head home, don’t be surprised if you’re already thinking about your next stay visit.
Of course, no two weekends on the island are ever the same. If you’re already planning your return trip, explore even more things to do on Chincoteague Island and start building your next adventure.
Ready to Plan Your Weekend?
There’s no shortage of ways to spend a weekend on Chincoteague Island, but some of the best moments aren’t found on an itinerary at all. They’re watching the sunset from the dock at Tom’s Cove Park, sharing ice cream from Island Creamery after a day at the beach, spotting a wild pony on a scenic walk in the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge for the first time, or simply enjoying the slower pace of island life.
When you’re ready to experience it for yourself, Tom’s Cove Park is the perfect place to stay. Conveniently located near the island’s top attractions while offering a peaceful waterfront setting, it’s an ideal home base for your next Chincoteague adventure.
Book your stay today and start planning a weekend you’ll never forget.
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Contact Us
Phone: 757-336-6498
Email: tomscovemanager@1819hc.com
Location: 8128 Beebe Road, Chincoteague, VA 23336
Access via US-13 and the Chincoteague Causeway. Get Directions.
