Spring Roundup Rundown

Spring is one of the most peaceful and beautiful times to visit Chincoteague Island, and the Spring Pony Roundup offers a front-row seat to one of the island’s most treasured traditions. On April 11 and 12, the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company and Saltwater Cowboys will gather the island’s famous wild ponies for their annual spring health checks—and visitors are welcome to watch it all unfold.

Whether you’re here for the ponies, the nature, or the fresh coastal air, The Refuge Inn is the perfect place to stay. Nestled next to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, it offers cozy accommodations, pony viewing, and easy access to all the weekend’s activities.

Thursday, April 10: Settle In & Catch the Sunset

Check in, drop your bags, and ease into island time. Before dinner, head into the refuge for a sunset walk on the beach—the views this time of year are stunning, and there’s nothing like the sound of waves to kick off a relaxing weekend.

For dinner, head to The Village, a local favorite open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. We can't stop eating their crab dip (it's that good), and many locals love their stuffed flounder, and generous seafood platters—the perfect first-night feast.

 

After dinner, ease back into the comfort of your room at The Refuge Inn. Unwind in the indoor pool, hot tub, or sauna—or curl up with a copy of Misty for the perfect start to a pony-filled weekend.

Friday, April 11: Southern Pony Roundup & Island Flavors

Start your morning with breakfast at Mr. Whippy’s, which is now open for the season. Whether you’re craving a hot donut, muffin, or just a great cup of coffee, this local favorite will hit the spot.

Spend part of your day at the Museum of Chincoteague Island, where you can learn about the history of the wild ponies, the island, and its people. It’s a great way to get a deeper understanding of the place you’re exploring.

For lunch or an early dinner, you’ve got two fantastic options:

• Captain Zack’s Seafood: Known for their fried oysters, blackened scallop Caesar wrap, and famous Bloody Marys
• Lily’s Little Mexico: A popular food truck offering authentic Mexican favorites, from tacos and enchiladas to burrito bowls and house-made salsas

4:30 PM | Woodland Trail Parking Lot, Assateague Island

In the late afternoon, head to Assateague for the southern herd roundup. The Saltwater Cowboys will drive the ponies into the south corral, located near the Woodland Trail parking lot. This roundup typically takes around an hour, and there are several great spots for viewing:

• From Beach Road, across the marsh
• At the corral itself, just be aware of temporary parking restrictions once the roundup begins

Want a unique perspective? You can also watch the roundup from the water with a guided tour from Daisey’s Island Cruises, which offers a front-row seat from the channel. Book early, as spots fill fast.

After the roundup, sit down to a casual meal or grab drinks at Steamers, open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, known for steamed seafood pots, crab legs, and arguably the island’s best orange crush!

Cap off your evening with a stop at Mr. Whippy’s for ice cream, sundaes, or milkshakes. There’s something so perfect about ending the day with a cone in hand and the sounds of the island all around you.

Saturday, April 12: Northern Pony Roundup, Local Pizza, and More

Set your alarm early—it’s worth it.

6:00 AM | Service Road via Wildlife Loop Parking Lot

This roundup covers a larger territory and takes 5–6 hours. Visitors can walk the 3-mile gravel Service Road (one-way) to the cattle grate for a closer view, or enjoy the slower pace of the marsh trails and wildlife areas while the Saltwater Cowboys do their work.

Prefer to stay off your feet? You can also watch the northern roundup from the water with a morning boat tour from Daisey’s Island Cruises. This unique perspective lets you experience the roundup in real-time, with stunning marsh views and a knowledgeable captain to guide your journey.

After your walk or cruise, grab a bite at Amarin Coffee. Their Vietnamese iced coffee and giant pastries—especially the chocolate croissants—make it a must-visit for a late breakfast or coffee break.

For lunch, head to Cosa Pizza, a food truck slinging wood-fired pizzas with perfectly blistered crusts and creative topping combos. A great spot to relax outdoors and enjoy some seriously good pizza.

Or, if you haven’t yet, grab lunch from Lily’s Little Mexico—perfect for a second round of tacos, tamales, or a fresh, flavorful burrito bowl.

Spend your afternoon however you like:

• Visit the beach
• Shop along Main Street and discover charming local boutiques, artisan finds, and island souvenirs
• Bike the Wildlife Loop (and rent your favorite bike from The Bike Depot, located steps from your room!)
• Take a quiet nap back at The Refuge Inn

Before you check out, consider one more memorable adventure:

See the island from the water on a Sunday morning cruise with Cowboy Cruise Company. Their tours offer a peaceful start to your day and one last chance to spot ponies, eagles, osprey, and other wildlife before heading home. You might even be the first to spot a brand new foal.

Prefer a slower sendoff? Enjoy your complimentary breakfast, sip coffee from your balcony, or spend some time in our on-site amenities:

• Get a quick workout in with our new Peloton bike
• Take a dip in the heated indoor pool or relax in the hot tub
• Unwind in the sauna, soaking up the last of your serene escape

Plan Your Spring Roundup Weekend at The Refuge Inn

From the thrill of the pony roundup to sunset walks, local food trucks, boat tours, and peaceful mornings by the water, Chincoteague Island offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Book your stay at The Refuge Inn today and get ready for an unforgettable spring weekend.

Call 757-336-5511 or visit www.refugeinn.com to reserve your room and take advantage of our Virginia is for Lovers spring special: Stay Friday and Saturday, and get 25% off all your weeknights!