Searching for Shamrocks: A St. Patrick’s Day Adventure on Chincoteague Island
St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a weekend getaway to Chincoteague Island. Whether you’re searching for hidden shamrocks, exploring local businesses, or enjoying the natural beauty of the island, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And of course, The Refuge Inn is the perfect place to stay, offering cozy accommodations with island charm. We hope you’ll join us for a festive and fun-filled St. Patrick’s Day weekend!
Friday, March 14: Kick Off the Celebration
Start your weekend by diving into one of Chincoteague’s most beloved traditions—the 15th Annual Search for the Shamrocks.
From 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, gather your friends and family, throw on your best green attire, and visit participating businesses around the island to collect clues. Each stop along the way will bring you closer to solving a special riddle, and those who finish the challenge by 4:30 PM on Saturday will be entered to win exciting prizes.
Before heading to dinner, take a moment to watch the sunset over the beach. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect spot to experience the island’s breathtaking evening skies. Walk along the shoreline, listen to the waves, and soak in the peaceful beauty before heading to dinner.
After sunset, enjoy a meal at The Village, a local favorite known for its crab dip, stuffed flounder, and seafood feast. Open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, The Village is the perfect spot to indulge in fresh, locally sourced seafood and unwind after a fun-filled start to the weekend.
After dinner, take a quiet walk under the stars or relax back at The Refuge Inn, getting ready for a full day of fun on Saturday.
Saturday, March 15: A Day of Fun and Adventure
Wake up refreshed and ready for a day of adventure. Start your morning at Amarin Coffee, a local favorite known for its Vietnamese iced coffee and oversized pastries. Their chocolate croissants, hot egg coffee, and flavorful espresso drinks are a perfect way to start your day—just be sure to arrive early, as their pastries sell out quickly.
After breakfast, head to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge for a bird-watching experience at Tom’s Cove Visitor Center Deck. https://www.nps.gov/asis/planyourvisit/upload/March-15-16-2.pdf
From 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM stop by and see what birds the ranger is spotting—come and go as you please during this relaxing, one-hour session. Some binoculars and field guides will be available to enhance your experience.
Between 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, continue visiting local businesses, collecting clues, and inching closer to solving the riddle. Don’t forget to cross the finish line by 4:30 PM to register for a chance to win prizes.
For lunch, stop by Having a Meltdown, a beloved food truck on Chicken City Road serving up incredible grilled cheeses and sandwiches. Their St. Patrick’s Day specials include the “And The Rest of the Day to You” sandwich, featuring slow-cooked corned beef, Swiss, housemade slaw, and Russian dressing on grilled marble rye. If you love a classic, their Reuben is also a fantastic choice.
In the afternoon, enjoy a special ranger-led program at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge: https://www.nps.gov/asis/planyourvisit/upload/March-15-16-2.pdf
Gather by the water for "Story by the Sea" from 11:30-12 and listen to a story about an animal that calls Assateague Island home. Afterward, take part in a hands-on activity or craft related to the tale. It’s a great way for families and nature lovers to learn more about the unique wildlife of the island.
For those looking to explore even more of Chincoteague’s natural beauty, consider taking a boat tour with Cowboy Cruise Company or Daisey’s Island Cruises in the late afternoon. The cool, crisp air and stunning views make for a perfect way to wrap up your day. Keep an eye out for Chincoteague ponies in their shedding their shaggy winter coats and osprey returning to their nests!
After your boat tour, warm up with dinner at Captain Zack’s Seafood, a must-visit spot for seafood lovers. Their blackened scallop Caesar wrap and fried oysters are local favorites, and if you’re in the mood for a drink, their famous Bloody Mary is the perfect way to toast the weekend.
Sunday, March 16: A Cozy and Relaxing Escape
The forecast is calling for rain on Sunday, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Enjoy your complimentary breakfast delivery and start your morning with another birdwatching session at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (if the weather holds up).
Afterward, stay in and enjoy a leisurely day at The Refuge Inn, sipping coffee and watching ponies from your balcony while soaking in the peaceful island atmosphere.
If the rain sets in, The Refuge Inn’s amenities are the perfect way to cap off your rejuvenating weekend getaway.
- Break a sweat in the gym and try out the brand-new Peloton, perfect for getting in a quick workout.
- Take one last dip in the indoor heated pool or hot tub and enjoy the warm, tropical vibes.
- Relax in the sauna, letting the stress melt away before stepping back out into the world refreshed.
Take a stroll along the beach (weather permitting) or simply enjoy a slow, relaxing evening before heading home early on Monday morning.
Plan Your St. Patrick’s Day Weekend on Chincoteague
From the thrill of the Search for the Shamrocks to peaceful birdwatching, delicious meals, and cozy moments at The Refuge Inn, there’s no better place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than Chincoteague Island. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this weekend has something for everyone.
Book your stay at The Refuge Inn today and get ready for a weekend of fun, exploration, and a little bit of Irish luck!
As part of our special Virginia is for Lovers promotion, you can stay two nights and get the third one free. Give us a call today at 757-336-5511 or visit www.refugeinn.com for more information on our rooms, rates and amenities.