Wild horses grazing among windswept dunes. The rhythmic crash of Atlantic waves against the shoreline. The quiet hum of marshland teeming with life. Assateague Island is a place unlike any other—one that has drawn visitors, writers, and nature lovers for generations. But for me, it’s more than just a beautiful coastal escape.
It’s a place I’ve studied, explored, and had the privilege of protecting. As a former park ranger at Assateague Island National Seashore, I spent years guiding visitors through its beaches, sandy trails, salt marshes, and backcountry waters—helping them experience the island in a way that was meaningful to them. From surf fishing on the beach to kayaking through quiet tidal flats, I got to know every inch of this island and its surrounding areas.
And now, as a travel advisor, I bring that same expertise to help you plan an unforgettable Assateague experience—and beyond.
Assateague 101: More Than Just a Beach
Assateague Island is a barrier island that stretches 37 miles from north to south, acting as a natural protector for the mainland against the powerful forces of the Atlantic Ocean. This dynamic island is constantly shifting, shaped by storms, tides, and the elements. Its beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests create a unique environment that you can explore for days and still discover something new.
Most people have heard of Assateague because of its wild horses or the beloved book Misty of Chincoteague, but what many don’t realize is that this island is split between two states—Maryland and Virginia—and managed by three different agencies, each with its own specific purpose. The Maryland side is home to Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park, where visitors can explore beaches and hike through maritime forests. On the Virginia side, the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge focuses on preserving the island’s critical wildlife habitats, especially for migratory birds.
The wild horses, too, are managed differently depending on the state. On the Maryland side, the horses are managed by the National Park Service as feral animals, while on the Virginia side, the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company manages the herd and conducts the famous Pony Penning event each year.
I could go full ranger mode and break down every management technique, but I’ll save that for the truly curious! Just know that no two visits to Assateague are ever the same—because this island is always shifting, always changing, shaped by the tides, the storms, and the resilient creatures that call it home.
Chincoteague and Assateague: What’s the Difference?
When you’re visiting the Virginia side of Assateague Island, it’s easy to get confused and think you’re on Chincoteague Island—but they’re actually two separate places! Chincoteague Island is a charming town right before you cross the bridge to Assateague. Once you cross over the bridge, you’re on Assateague Island with the main area managed by Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge and the beach by Assateague Island National Seashore. The beach on the Virginia side of Assateague is often mistaken for Chincoteague, but it’s all part of Assateague. So, while they’re closely connected, just remember that Chincoteague is the town, and Assateague is the natural island you won’t want to miss!
Wild Horses of Assateague Island
Assateague Island is home to a unique population of wild horses that have captured the hearts of many visitors. These horses are not ponies, even though they might appear smaller than typical horses. The Assateague wild horses are technically horses—they are simply smaller due to the challenging environment they live in. The island’s salty, low-nutrient diet and rugged terrain have allowed them to develop a compact and hardy build, which results in their smaller size compared to other horse breeds.
What Makes Them Wild Horses?
The Assateague horses are descendants of domestic horses that have reverted to a wild state over the centuries. They are feral, meaning they have adapted to life in the wild, living off the land without human care. Over time, they’ve developed certain traits that help them survive on the island, such as their thick coats for warmth and a unique tolerance to the island’s salty environment.
Respecting the Wild Horses
These wild horses are an iconic part of Assateague Island's landscape, and it's important to admire them from a safe distance. Always keep at least 40 feet between you and the horses—remember, they are wild animals and should be treated with respect. Never feed them or attempt to interact with them, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and even be dangerous for you and them.
Beyond the Beaches: My Life as a Ranger
During my time as a ranger at Assateague, I worked across both the Maryland and Virginia sides, leading visitors through this incredible landscape. I helped families plan their trips, educated school groups about the island’s unique ecosystem, and spent hours in the field experiencing Assateague in every way possible.
I led surf fishing excursions, teaching visitors how to cast their lines into the Atlantic for striped bass and bluefish. I explored the island’s waters by kayak, paddling through quiet back bays where the only sounds were the dipping of paddles and the calls of herons overhead.
I guided visitors to the best spots for wildlife viewing, explained how to time their visits with the tides, and helped them uncover Assateague’s lesser-known trails and beaches—far from the crowds.
But the most rewarding part? Helping people experience Assateague in a way that fit their interests.
For some, that meant a laid-back beach day, watching the horses roam from a distance. For others, it was about adventure—hiking, paddling, or fishing. Some were fascinated by the island’s rich history, from early settlers to shipwrecks. Every visitor had a different idea of their perfect Assateague experience—and I loved helping them find it.
From Ranger to Travel Advisor: Helping You Explore Like a Local
Looking back, I realize that my job as a ranger was preparing me for my job as a travel advisor all along.
Helping people navigate options, uncover hidden gems, and match their trip to their interests—that’s exactly what I do now. National Parks, especially dynamic ones like Assateague, can be overwhelming to plan for. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel lost in the details. But just like when I wore the ranger hat, I know the right questions to ask to help you make the most of your time—whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, history, wildlife, or a little bit of everything.
And when it comes to Assateague and the surrounding areas, I’m not just any travel advisor—I’m someone who has lived and breathed this island.
Through my years in the park service, I’ve built connections with rangers across the country - National Parks may be spread across the nation, but the park service is a small, tight-knit community. I know the nuances that make National Parks special—and how to help you experience them in a way that goes beyond the guidebooks.
Let’s Plan Your Assateague Adventure!
If Assateague is on your list, let’s make it happen! Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, an off-the-beaten-path experience, or a classic beach getaway, I’ll help you craft a trip that’s perfect for you.
It’s not just a trip—it’s an experience. And I can’t wait to share it with you.
Connect with me at agencychic.com/kait or kait@agencychic.com
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