Valentine’s Day Weekend 2026 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 12 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.
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
On Friday, February 13, enjoy a quiet morning at the Inn before kicking off your Valentine’s weekend with an afternoon of sweet exploration during the annual Death by Chocolate event. Friday afternoon, 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 showing of To Kill a Mockingbird—snuggle up with your loved one and enjoy this classic and timely story of standing up for what's right.
If you prefer live entertainment, catch the opening night of the winter play, Southern Fried Funeral, performed by the Chincoteague Island Theatre Company at the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance. The show usually starts at 7 PM, with doors opening at 6:30 PM.
On Saturday, February 14, 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.
- Enjoy the quiet hours in the heated pool, hot tub, and sauna
- Or, maybe you missed a stop on Friday or simply want more chocolate (who wouldn’t?) The Death by Chocolate event runs again on Saturday as well! This event is a can’t-miss island tradition, and the extra time to complete your playing card is sometimes appreciated!
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 When Harry Met Sally at the Island Theatre at 7 PM, or if you missed Southern Fried Funeral on Friday, catch their performance at the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance at 7 PM.
On Sunday, February 15, 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 winter 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.