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Two horses grazing in a sunlit pasture near a tree.

Blog

Where Assateague 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 raise their young on its windswept flats. The Hook’s brief open seaso… Leer más

48 Hours on Chincoteague Island in October

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 … Leer más

Chincoteague Ponies and the Leonard Family Legacy

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,… Leer más
Fall birding- egret over fall marsh

October Birding at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

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 … Leer más
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.

The Buyback Stud

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… Leer más

Citizen of the Year

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… Leer más
Sunrise over the pedestrian bridge to assateague

Mother's Day in Chincoteague: A Weekend Itinerary

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… Leer más

A May Weekend in Chincoteague: Seafood, Sunsets and Spring

  There is something extra special about Chincoteague in May - the scent of salt in the air, the sound of shorebirds returning, and the energy of the island reawakening for the season. If you’re planning a spring escape, this 3-day itinerary hi… Leer más
Refuge Inn owner Arthur Leonard gives a decoy carving demonstration to two young visitors at the Easter Decoy and Art Festival

Easter in Chincoteague: A Weekend Itinerary

Easter weekend is one of the most joyful and relaxing times to visit Chincoteague Island. Spring brings blooming flowers, migrating birds, and the return of island traditions that make this community so special. Whether you're looking to unwind by th… Leer más
Wild ponies of Chincoteague in the corral on Assateague Island. Foreground: Buckskin and paint mares looking at the camera. Background: Several more horses gather inside the fence of the corral

Spring Pony Roundup: A Weekend Itinerary

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… Leer más