Valentine's Day Weekend on Chincoteague Island

Valentine’s Day Weekend on Chincoteague Island

 

Love is in the air on Chincoteague Island! If you’re looking for a romantic and adventure-filled getaway, there’s no better place to spend Valentine’s Day weekend than here. From scenic boat tours to chocolate indulgences and classic films, we have everything you need to create the perfect memory with your sweetheart or your best friends. And, of course, there’s no better place to stay than The Refuge Inn, where cozy comfort meets island charm. We hope you will join us!

 

Check-in on Thursday, February 13 so you can beat the holiday weekend traffic rush. Leave work a few hours early so you can arrive at the Refuge around 6, and surprise your partner with flowers in the room--ask our front desk how you can add this to your existing reservation! Order Famous Pizza delivery, and take advantage of the quiet night to enjoy the tropical vibes of our indoor, heated pool and hot tub, which doubles as a greenhouse for all of our potted plants in the off-season. Sign out a key to use the dry sauna, and then enjoy a quiet night in your room reading a book or watching a movie. 

On Friday, February 14, enjoy a quiet morning at the Inn before kicking off your Valentine’s weekend with an afternoon of sweet exploration during the 19th annual Death by Chocolate event. From 3 PM to 7 PM, stroll through Chincoteague’s charming Main Street as you and your loved one (or your best friends!) hunt for delicious chocolate treats at participating merchants. It’s the perfect way to explore the island while indulging your sweet tooth!

Start your evening with an intimate dinner at Bill’s, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and a warm, inviting atmosphere. We definitely recommend making a reservation in advance! 

Afterward, walk a few doors down to the historic Island Theatre for a special Valentine’s Day showing of 16 Candles at 7 PM. This 80s classic is the perfect mix of romance and nostalgia—snuggle up with your loved one and enjoy the show!

If you prefer live entertainment, catch the opening night of Dream Girl, performed by the Chincoteague Island Theatre Company at the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance. The show starts at 7 PM, with doors opening at 6:30 PM.

On Saturday, February 15, start your morning with a delicious cup of coffee at Amarin Coffee on Maddox Boulevard, a cozy spot that’s perfect for a slow and relaxing start to the day. Our favorites are the enormous chocolate croissants and hot egg coffees, but you can’t go wrong with anything you choose! Just make sure to get there early because they sell out of pastries fast!

Next, you have a few options!

• You could head out for some peaceful birding at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The winter landscape offers a unique opportunity to spot snow geese, swans, and even bald eagles in their natural habitat. 
• If you’re up for a unique adventure, for the first time ever, the Chincoteague Natural History Association is hosting Treks up the Refuge Service Road, and one of these exclusive journeys is happening this Saturday! Departing from the Bateman Education Center at 10:30 AM, this 15-mile round trip is your chance to experience seldom-seen areas of the Refuge in winter. Keep an eye out for many different species of birds and even the iconic Chincoteague ponies in their shaggy winter coats. Tickets are first come, first served, so be sure to arrive early! 
• Or, maybe you missed a stop on Friday or simply want more chocolate (who wouldn’t?), but don’t worry because the Death by Chocolate event runs 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday as well! This event is a can’t-miss island tradition!

By midday, refuel with lunch at Blackfin, a great spot for fresh, local seafood and flavorful dishes. Thankfully, once you’re full from lunch you can walk right across the street back to your room for a quick nap. 

In the afternoon, bundle up for a boat tour with Cowboy Cruise Company or Daisey’s Island Cruises. The crisp winter air, stunning coastal views, and the peaceful serenity of the water make for an unforgettable experience. Keep an eye out for the famous Chincoteague ponies in their shaggy winter coats!

After your boat tour, attend the awards event for Death by Chocolate to see if you won one of the fabulous prizes. Then, warm up at Don’s Seafood on Main Street. A long-time favorite on Chincoteague Island, Don’s serves up locally sourced oysters, crabs, and more. Make sure you grab a bowl of their famous crab soup or clam chowder!

As the evening arrives, settle in for the showing of Wicked at the Island Theatre at 7 PM, or if you missed Dream Girl on Friday, catch their performance at the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance at 7 PM.

 

On Sunday, February 16, enjoy a leisurely morning at The Refuge Inn, where you can sip coffee on the balcony, breathe in the salty sea air, and soak up the peaceful island atmosphere. Take advantage of our breakfast delivery and savor your last morning. If you’re up for one last adventure, take a morning bike ride through the Refuge or enjoy a final stroll along the shoreline before heading home with hearts full and memories made. Check at the front desk for a special treat to enjoy on your ride home!

With the blend of romance, adventure, and small-town charm, Chincoteague Island is the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re cozying up for a movie, indulging in chocolate delights, exploring nature, or setting sail on a scenic boat tour, there’s something special for everyone. 

Book your stay at The Refuge Inn today and get ready for a weekend filled with love, laughter, and island magic! 

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.