Assateague Beach - Chincoteague, VA
Assateague Beach – A Dog-Friendly Gem in Chincoteague, Virginia
Located on the scenic coast of Chincoteague, Virginia, Assateague Beach offers a beautiful and relaxing escape for dog lovers and their furry friends. Renowned for its golden sand, clean swimming waters, and expansive beach area, this national park provides ample room to stretch out with your pets. Visitors consistently mention the tranquil atmosphere and impressive maintenance by the National Park Service, making it a top destination for anyone searching for a dog park in Chincoteague, Virginia or a pet-friendly beach experience in the region.
While Assateague Beach is an open, natural setting rather than a traditional fenced dog park, it is very pet-friendly. Amenities include restrooms, portable toilets, beach parking (though it can be limited during certain seasons or after storms), and easy access to the water for swimming and play. Just remember to keep the beach clean by bringing your own waste bags, as amenities like dog waste stations aren’t guaranteed. The $10 entry fee is required unless you have a park pass, making it an affordable day trip for your family and four-legged companions.
FAQ
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are restrooms and portable toilets available.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? Yes, there is a $10 entry fee unless you have a park pass.
- Where is the best place to park? Ample parking is available, though it may be limited during busy times or after storms. Arriving early is recommended.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, Assateague Beach is noted for being well-maintained by the National Park Service.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? The surrounding area features pet-friendly trails for walking and hiking.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, the beach and water offer swimming opportunities for dogs.
- Are there ticks or other pests common in the area? Bug spray is recommended, as insects and pests can be present.
Reviews
In spite of hurricane damage to beach & parking area, still the Best Place on Earth to relax and watch the waves roll in & out. Parking is severly limited even with extensive cleanup efforts by NPS. Beach area is also limited (very, very small at “P1” parking area). Limited Rest Rooms available on this visit (SEP 2025). Sitting on top of sand dunes along with the seagulls as space is limited and we are all getting along just fine.
In spite of hurricane damage to beach & parking area, still the Best Place on Earth to relax and watch the waves roll in & out. Parking is severly limited even with extensive cleanup efforts by NPS. Beach area is also limited (very, very small at “P1” parking area). Limited Rest Rooms available on this visit (SEP 2025). Sitting on top of sand dunes along with the seagulls as space is limited and we are all getting along just fine.
In spite of hurricane damage to beach & parking area, still the Best Place on Earth to relax and watch the waves roll in & out. Parking is severly limited even with extensive cleanup efforts by NPS. Beach area is also limited (very, very small at “P1” parking area). Limited Rest Rooms available on this visit (SEP 2025). Sitting on top of sand dunes along with the seagulls as space is limited and we are all getting along just fine.
One of the beautiful beach on the east coast.. Assateague beach.. Maryland.. Superb water.. Golden sand… Great place to be with family and friends..
One of the beautiful beach on the east coast.. Assateague beach.. Maryland.. Superb water.. Golden sand… Great place to be with family and friends..
One of the beautiful beach on the east coast.. Assateague beach.. Maryland.. Superb water.. Golden sand… Great place to be with family and friends..
Very beautiful area. Worth the walk and the beaches are beautiful. Bring bug spray.
Very beautiful area. Worth the walk and the beaches are beautiful. Bring bug spray.
Very beautiful area. Worth the walk and the beaches are beautiful. Bring bug spray.
Looking for a relaxing beach, this place checks that box. Very clean, as a national park should be. There are elaborate porta potties scattered through the parking lot, an air station to refill for those that want to drive on the beach, and plenty of parking. Beach was clean, not a ton of shells like some places have and an easy entry into the water. Definitely bring your own bags, etc to dispose of your trash to help keep the beaches clean. ? entry fee if you don’t have a park pass, but it did appear that if you arrived during “lunch” the booths were unattended allowing people to drive right in. Timing may be everything? 🤷🏼♂️ Never saw any horses roaming the beach, but maybe you will be luckier than I was!!