Blog
You’d Never Expect to Hear these birds at The Refuge Inn, but we did!
If you’ve stayed at The Refuge Inn, you may have noticed the soft chorus of island life that surrounds us: wrens calling from the pines, robins at dawn, and the chatter of grackles… Read more
Cool Birds of The Refuge Inn
Our BirdWeather sensor records hundreds of feathered visitors each season — some familiar, others delightfully unexpected. From deep-forest travelers to ocean wanderers, these are a few of the coolest birds we’ve hea… Read more
On August 25, 2025, under the quiet buzz of a late-summer night on Assateague Island, a golden palomino filly slipped into the world. She was the 102nd foal born in the CVFC Pony Herds in 2025, and nobody knows how it happened, but by morning, this l… Read more
Where the Island Unfolds: Discovering the Tom’s Cove Hook
In September each year, the Tom’s Cove Hook reopens to explorers and dreamers alike. By late March, it closes again to make way for migratory shorebirds who return to nest and rais… Read more
There’s something special about October on Chincoteague Island. The summer rush has drifted out to sea, the air feels clean and quiet, and the marshes glow during golden hour. Two days is just enough time to settle into the rhythm of the island — to … Read more
Donald Leonard was a lifetime member of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company and a rough and tumble Saltwater Cowboy for decades. He seemed to have been born with ponies in his blood. This is not surprising as his great-grandfather, Kendal Jester,… Read more
In October, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge sees a variety of bird species migrating through as part of their fall migration. The Refuge Inn sits at the entrance to the Wildlife Refuge, and sports many great birdwatching opportunities right on … Read more
Refuge Inn founder Don Leonard is pictured with three of his children, Carlton, Arthur, and Jane, along with the buyback colt that would become known as the original Don Leonard Stud.
What most people don't know: Don created the Buyback pro… Read more
We are thrilled to announce that former Refuge Inn owner Donna Leonard has been named the 2025 John White Shields Outstanding Citizen.
This award recognizes an individual who has consistently demonstrated excellence in community leadership and exhibi… Read more
Celebrate Mother’s Day on Chincoteague Island: A Relaxing & Joyful Weekend Getaway
Looking for the perfect way to show Mom just how much she means to you? Treat her to a refreshing, nature-filled weekend on Chincoteague Island. With the Refuge In… Read more