Leaves are falling, and we are thrilled to share all the island has to offer in the cooler months with you! During October, Chincoteague Island is full of adventurous locations to keep you busy. Join us as we celebrate our Annual Chincoteague Oyster Festival and National Wildlife Refuge Week.
Weekend Itinerary
Arrive on Thursday, October 10 and check into your room at the Refuge Inn. For dinner, visit the Village Restaurant on Maddox and indulge in one of the delicious items from their Virginia is for Lovers menu. Round out the evening with a blissful walk down Main Street or Maddox Boulevard following your meal. There is nothing quite as relaxing as feeling the breeze off the water this time of year.
On Friday, October 11, visit the Museum of Chincoteague Island on Maddox Boulevard. There, you can see Misty and Stormy while learning all about the history of the island. Book an afternoon shellfish tour with Cowboy Cruise Company. On this cruise, you are able to take in the natural beauty of the island and its surroundings. You also have the chance to shuck salt oysters and dig for clams! Follow the link above to book your cruise online.
For dinner, drive just a few minutes down Maddox Boulevard, and turn right onto Deep Hole Road. On your right, you will find Captain Zack’s Dry Dock and Seafood Carryout. This is the perfect place to spend your early evening unwinding and enjoying a delicious meal. (Pro tip: Don’t leave without ordering the Seafood Boats. Although listed as an appetizer, they could be a meal all to one person!)
The 51st Annual Chincoteague Oyster Festival
On Saturday, October 12 from 10am-4pm, celebrate oyster season by joining us for the 51st Annual Chincoteague Oyster Festival at Tom’s Cove Park. Guests will enjoy raw, steamed, and single-fried oysters, oyster fritters, clam fritters, clam chowder, shrimp cocktail, hot dogs, hush puppies, salad bar, and Boardwalk fries. Additionally, non-alcoholic beverages are included with ticket purchase, but beer is also available to be purchased onsite that day. Island Boy will provide live entertainment.
While you are there, don’t forget to purchase your ticket for the Extravaganza Raffle! It is one of the most amazing prizes given away on the island all year and includes meal gift certificates, lodging, t-shirts, tickets, and more! T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, souvenir food trays, and glass beer mugs will also be available for purchase. Festival Tickets are $65 (children 5 and under get in free) and can be purchased through the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce.
National Wildlife Refuge Week
On Sunday, October 13, begin your morning early at Mr. Baldy’s Restaurant on Ridge Road with fresh coffee, sausage gravy, or the famous “Double Play” breakfast. After a delicious diner-style breakfast, you’ll be ready to head over to neighboring Assateague Island to enjoy the kick off day for National Wildlife Refuge Week. On October 13, visitors can enter the park without paying a fee and enjoy wildlife, views, and trails. Throughout the week, visitors are encouraged to visit the Herbert H Bateman Educational and Administrative Center on the refuge to learn more about the history and natural habitat of the island and take advantage of this special week. Visit https://www.fws.gov/story/national-wildlife-refuge-week for more information.
Above all, we welcome you to plan your lodging with the Refuge Inn in order to make your weekend getaway perfect. Give us a call today at 757-336-5511 for more information on our rates and amenities.