Ever since I was little my family and I have had a beach house on Chincoteague Island. It is truly a gem that not many know about. It is a little island off of Virginia that is also connected to Assateague Island. You know the place where all the ponies are! Yeah, that's it! Here are some reasons why you need to visit this time transporting wonder!

1. Talk about southern hospitality!

The locals will make you feel at home once they get to know you. I think my parents and I know almost every store owner and worker on the island!

2. You can drive on the beach!

There is certainly more of a restriction than there was. However, depending on the season due to a bird called the piping plover, you can drive on the beach! Driving so far where you are not crowded by a ton of people around is the best. See in the picture! Absolutely no one! Run little Megan, run! There's nothing more that you could want when you go to the beach.

3. They have really good food! Especially seafood!

Have you ever had Sandy Pony donuts? You guys in Annapolis will know what I am talking about! But I have to say, the people who tried it in CI have a little bit of a leg up on you! Chincoteague is pretty well known for their oysters. The next time you are at a seafood restaurant look for a Chincoteague oyster, I bet you'll find one! Obviously no other can compare. I have had the best ice cream (Mr. Whippy, Island Creamery), fried chicken (Woody's), seafood (Ricky's Seafood and Produce Market), and Italian subs (J & B Subs) in Chincoteague. What more do you need on a vacation?

4. There's a pony swim!

Yes, the ponies get in the water and actually swim! Every year the Saltwater Cowboys round them up and they swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island, then go to be auctioned. You could say it is a pretty fun day. I especially like when they march down Mainstreet right in front of you!

5. You will never feel unsafe

Letting your kids bike around the island alone? No problem! You'll never feel unsafe when you're at Chincoteague!

6. They have an old-time fair!

I will admit the Ferris wheel might seem a little rickety but it's definitely safe! When I was younger I loved going on all those old rides, heck who am I kidding I still love going on them. Don't forget about all the games too! I may or may not have one of those giant stuffed dogs in the game where you throw the ring on the old milk bottles. Needless to say, everyone was surprised and it was very hard to carry home

7. Have you ever heard Misty of Chincoteague?

“Misty of Chincoteague” by Marguerite Henry! Yes, it was a book series and yes it was a film. I don't know about you but I think that's pretty cool.

8. Don't forget about the trails! But definitely, don't forget the bug spray!

We have made the mistake multiple times, biking on the trail with no bug spray. It's okay because the trail is so fun and beautiful! Take in all the wildlife...including some awesome photos of ponies!

9. Oh, my the art!

You will find some awesome artists on the island! My whole house is filled with many pieces from multiple artists. They range from beachy vibes to beautiful landscapes and flowers. You will definitely find something you love! Don't forget about the Chincoteague Plein Art Show & Sale! It's where artists paint outside really getting the feel for the area. What's not to love.

10. *WARNING* You'll fall in love! *WARNING*

I swear once you visit you will love the old time small town feel. You will feel relaxed and not the rush of the more busy beach towns. It has the best of both worlds! Want to go on a boat ride on the bay side and fish, go ahead! Or want to go visit the beach! You can! There is so much to do for all ages! I am so happy that I was able to grow up with a beach house on good ol Chincoteague Island!