100TH ANNUAL CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND PONY SWIM EVENT RENTALS

• Assateague Lighthouse
  •  Located on the southern end of Assateague Island, this 142-foot red-and-white horizontally striped lighthouse is a prominent landmark visible from the Chincoteague Channel, Assateague Channel, or the Atlantic Ocean. Built in 1833 and still operational, it stands out against the island’s natural backdrop. From the water, you’ll see its tower rising above the maritime forest, especially striking during sunset or early morning boat tours. It’s a key feature of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and accessible by a short trail for closer views.

• Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (Assateague Island)
  • While not a single landmark, the refuge’s pristine shoreline, encompassing beaches, dunes, marshes, and maritime forests, is a defining feature visible from the Chincoteague Channel, Assateague Channel, or Atlantic waters. Spanning over 14,000 acres, it’s home to the famous Chincoteague wild ponies, which you might spot grazing in marshes like Black Duck Marsh from a boat. The refuge’s untouched coastline and wildlife, including dolphins and shorebirds, are highlights on water-based tours.
• Chincoteague Wild Ponies
  •  The wild ponies, iconic due to Marguerite Henry’s Misty of Chincoteague, roam Assateague Island and are often visible from the water, particularly in marshes or near the shore along the Chincoteague or Assateague Channels. Boat rentals & guided jet ski tours by Sea Rocket frequently navigate remote areas for pony-watching, offering views of these animals grazing or wading. The annual Pony Swim, crossing the channel from Assateague to Chincoteague, is a world-famous event best seen from the water.
• Chincoteague Waterman’s Memorial
  • Positioned at the west end of the marina near Robert N. Reed Downtown Waterfront Park, this memorial honors lives lost at sea and is visible from the Chincoteague Channel or Black Narrows. From the water, you’ll see its markers and reflective setting, ideal for quiet contemplation. It’s also a prime spot for viewing NASA rocket launches from Wallops Island or sunsets, adding to its prominence.
• Wallops Flight Facility Launch Pads
  • The launch pads, including Pad 0A (used for Antares rockets) and Pad 0B (Minotaur rockets), are the most prominent features of Wallops Island. Visible from the Chincoteague Channel or Atlantic Ocean, these pads are part of NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility, operational since 1945. From the water, you’ll see the launch infrastructure, including gantries and support structures, especially during rocket launches. The pads are approximately 2 miles from public viewing spots like the Chincoteague Marina, offering a clear view of liftoffs. Rocket launches, such as those by Northrop Grumman or Rocket Lab, are a spectacular sight, with flames and smoke visible from boats.
• Wallops Island National Wildlife Refuge
  • This 343-acre refuge, encompassing salt marshes, woodlands, and the rare “Lucky Boy” sea-level fen, is visible from Chincoteague Bay and the Chincoteague Channel. From the water, you’ll see its undeveloped shoreline, teeming with wildlife like bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and migratory birds. The refuge’s marshy edges and dune systems are a stark contrast to the launch facilities, offering a natural backdrop. While closed to the public on land, its coastal features are accessible for viewing by boat or kayak, especially near the southern end of Wallops Island.

All activities depart from BluFin Bungalows & Marina. The address is 2477 Main St, Chincoteague Island, VA 23336. Parking is available at the marina.

Please arrive at least 30 minutes ahead of time to allow for paperwork and safety overviews. Parking is available on site. Plan for heavy traffic and delays!

No, we cannot provide a captain the day of the pony swim. All rentals are private to you and your group.

Absolutely! We recommend going straight to the event and anchoring for the best view possible.