Two horses grazing in a sunlit pasture near a tree.

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Vibrant sunset reflecting on calm water, framed by silhouetted trees.

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

A great egret flies over a lush, golden landscape at sunset.

Guía de observación de aves de octubre

Octubre es el mes en que el refugio cambia. Las últimas currucas aún se mueven entre los pinos por las mañanas, los halcones cazan en los bordes del pantano y, a finales de mes, los primeros patos y cisnes se posan en el agua. Las aves playeras pierd… Leer más

Four people standing together with a pony in a farm setting.

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 program as pa… Leer más

Two women smile while holding an award in front of a "Discover Chincoteague Island" backdrop.

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

A wooden walkway leads into a sunset over a grassy marshland.

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 Inn as… Leer más

A lighthouse stands tall amidst green marsh grass and a backdrop of trees.

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 hits all t… Leer más

A bearded man carves wood while two young children sit on the ground beside him, surrounded by shavings and tools.

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

A group of horses of varying colors stands close together in a pasture.

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

St. Patrick's Day in Chincoteague: A Weekend Itinerary

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 … Leer más