The Islands of Chincoteague and Assateague are travel destinations like no other. 

NEW EDITION FOR 2024

Many visit these islands on Virginia’s Eastern Shore to see the wild ponies made famous by the children’s classic Misty of Chincoteague, but they find themselves returning for a host of reasons.

The undeveloped National Seashore on Assateague allows access to a barrier island beach that looks just like it did centuries ago. The natural beauty of the environment, with its birds, animals, and sea life, forms the backdrop of a quiet seaside town with a rich legacy and a burgeoning food scene largely based on local seafood. 

Author David Parmelee shares first-hand knowledge on what to do, where to stay, where to eat, and how to enjoy the local culture. His “shortcuts to the magic” let first-time visitors access tips and tricks to the Islands that can take years to learn. 

Parmelee combines his practical and logistical guide with interviews of key people who make the islands what they are. Use The Traveler’s Guide to plan your trip and uncover the joy of the Islands.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING:

“How can a little island offer so much in such a small space? The same way this little book can. I’ve crawled all over Chincoteague for 10 years hunting images for my silkscreen prints. I thought I knew it well. Then along comes this guide to show me how much I’ve missed. David Parmelee has done exhaustive research and presented it in a thorough, honest, and entertaining format. This book will stand as the best guide to Chincoteague and Assateague for many years to come.”

—Erick Sahler, Eastern Shore illustrator and printmaker

“David Parmelee's guide is chock full of useful tips and info. But it's more: With its bevy of local ‘Island voices’ and insights into Chincoteague culture, it doubles as a love letter to one of America's best-loved travel destinations.”

—Jim Duffy, travel writer and author of the Secrets of the Eastern Shore guidebooks series