Discover the Toms Cove Visitor Center: Gateway to Assateague Island
Explore the beauty and wildlife of Assateague Island National Seashore at the Toms Cove Visitor Center in Chincoteague, Virginia.
The Toms Cove Visitor Center serves as the perfect starting point for your adventure in Chincoteague, Virginia. Offering a wealth of information about the natural beauty and wildlife of Assateague Island National Seashore, this visitor center is a must-visit for tourists. With knowledgeable staff, engaging exhibits, and breathtaking views, it invites visitors to explore the wonders of the island and its unique ecosystem.
A brief summary to Toms Cove Visitor Center
- 8586 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, Virginia, 23336, US
- +1757-336-6577
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best tips from staff.
- Check for special ranger programs happening during your visit.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and to spot the wild ponies.
- Don't forget to explore the trails that start just outside the center.
- Make sure to grab a map and brochure for an overview of the area.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Toms Cove Visitor Center, start by entering Assateague Island National Seashore via the main entrance. Follow signs toward Chincoteague Island, staying on Beach Road (also known as VA-175). Continue on Beach Road for approximately 10 miles. You will pass through scenic areas of the national seashore, where you may spot wildlife. After about 10 miles, you will see Toms Cove Visitor Center on your left at 8586 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336. There is no admission fee to enter the visitor center itself, but there may be fees associated with parking or specific activities in the national seashore.
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Public Transportation
For those traveling via public transportation, you can take a bus to Chincoteague Island from larger nearby cities like Norfolk or Ocean City. Once you arrive at the Chincoteague bus station, you will need to use a taxi, rideshare service, or rent a bike to reach Toms Cove Visitor Center. It's approximately a 5-mile ride from the Chincoteague bus station to the visitor center. Be sure to check local bus schedules for service to Chincoteague Island, as they may vary seasonally.
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Biking
If you are already on the island and prefer biking, there are designated bike paths throughout Assateague Island National Seashore. You can bike from any nearby location in the park. Follow the signs for the visitor center, which is located near the main road (Beach Road). The ride from the campground or other areas should take around 30-45 minutes, depending on your starting point and biking speed.
Discover more about Toms Cove Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Toms Cove Visitor Center
0.0 km
Explore the beauty and wildlife of Assateague Island National Seashore at the Toms Cove Visitor Center in Chincoteague, Virginia.
Assateague Beach
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Assateague Beach, home to wild horses and stunning coastal views on Virginia's Eastern Shore.
Assateague Explorer Pony Watching Cruise & Kayaking
5.5 km
Explore Assateague Island's breathtaking landscapes and wild ponies on an unforgettable cruise or kayaking adventure with Assateague Explorer.
Chincoteague Island
5.6 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and wild ponies of Chincoteague Island, a serene getaway on Virginia's Eastern Shore.
Pitts Neck House
26.3 km
Explore the historical charm of Pitts Neck House in New Church, Virginia, a significant landmark that connects visitors to America's rich heritage and history.
Pocomoke State Forest
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Furnace Town Historic Site (Nassawango Iron Furnace)
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Explore Furnace Town Historic Site, a premier historical landmark in Maryland, showcasing the rich history of iron production amidst stunning natural beauty.
Assateague Island National Seashore Entrance Station
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Ker Place (Shore History)
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Eastern Shore Watermen's Museum and Research Center
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Rackliffe House
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Janes Island State Park
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J Millard Tawes Historical Museum
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Inlet Park
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Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot
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Unmissable attractions to see
Pony Overlook
2.3 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Pony Overlook in Chincoteague, Virginia, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor.
Pony View
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Experience the serene beauty and wildlife of Pony View, a stunning tourist attraction in Chincoteague, Virginia, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
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Herbert H. Bateman Educational And Administrative Center
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Assateague Lighthouse
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Explore the historic Assateague Lighthouse on stunning Assateague Island, where maritime history meets stunning coastal beauty.
Assateague Lighthouse 1867
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Chincoteague Beach
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Museum of Chincoteague Island
3.7 km
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Jellystone Park™ Chincoteague Island
4.1 km
Explore Jellystone Park™ Chincoteague Island, a family-friendly RV park surrounded by nature, offering fun activities and easy access to Virginia's stunning landscapes.
Maui Jack's Waterpark
4.2 km
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Tom's Cove Park
4.4 km
Experience the tranquility and adventure of Tom's Cove Park, a premier campground on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Funland Amusements
4.7 km
Experience endless family fun at Funland Amusements in Chincoteague, VA, featuring thrilling rides, games, and delicious treats for everyone.
Assateague Island Hook
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Beebe Ranch
5.0 km
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Up the bay Pony Tours
5.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Woody's Serious Food
4.2 km
Savor the best barbecue on Chincoteague Island at Woody's Serious Food, where smoky flavors and hearty portions await every hungry traveler.
Famous Pizza & Sub Shop
4.3 km
Experience the best pizza and subs in Chincoteague at Famous Pizza & Sub Shop - where flavor meets tradition in every bite.
The Village Restaurant
4.6 km
Experience the best seafood dining in Chincoteague at The Village Restaurant - where local flavors meet coastal charm.
AJ's on the Creek
4.6 km
Discover AJ's on the Creek in Chincoteague: where fresh seafood meets perfectly grilled steaks in a scenic riverside setting.
Pico Taqueria
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Mr. Baldy's Family Restaurant
4.6 km
Discover delightful homestyle meals at Mr. Baldy's Family Restaurant on Chincoteague Island - perfect for families seeking comfort food.
Maria's Family Restaurant
4.7 km
Experience the charm of family dining at Maria's Family Restaurant in Chincoteague - where every meal is made with love and flavor.
Teaguer's Pub
4.9 km
Discover delicious pizza and vibrant live music at Teaguer's Pub in Chincoteague - your perfect spot for relaxation and fun.
Subway
4.9 km
Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Chincoteague – perfect for quick meals on your travel adventures!
Beach Road Round-Up
5.1 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Beach Road Round-Up in Chincoteague—perfectly located near stunning beaches and local attractions.
Captain Zack's Seafood
5.2 km
Discover fresh flavors at Captain Zack's Seafood on Chincoteague Island - where every dish celebrates local ingredients and coastal charm.
Steamers Restaurant & Sports Bar
5.4 km
Experience coastal charm and mouthwatering seafood at Steamers Restaurant & Sports Bar in Chincoteague – a must-visit for all seafood lovers.
Channel Bass Inn and Restaurant
5.6 km
Experience delightful dining and cozy accommodations at Channel Bass Inn & Restaurant in scenic Chincoteague Island.
Bill's PRIME Seafood & Steaks
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Experience the finest seafood and succulent steaks at Bill's PRIME Seafood & Steaks in Chincoteague, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Don's Seafood Market & Restaurant
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Experience fresh seafood delights at Don's Seafood Market & Restaurant in Chincoteague – where local flavors meet coastal charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pony Pop
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Island Times
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Discover unique clothing and local treasures at Island Times, your go-to shop in picturesque Chincoteague, Virginia.
Pony Tails Taffy
4.1 km
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Girls Day Out
4.1 km
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Beach & Bead
4.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Beach & Bead, your one-stop shop for coastal treasures in Chincoteague, Virginia.
Chincoteague Island Outfitters LLC
4.2 km
Explore the beauty of Chincoteague Island with canoe and kayak rentals, bike adventures, and unique local gifts at Chincoteague Island Outfitters.
Tom's Beach Supply
4.3 km
Explore Tom's Beach Supply in Chincoteague for unique souvenirs and beach essentials with exceptional prices and friendly service.
Carodan Farm Wool Shop
4.4 km
Explore Carodan Farm Wool Shop in Chincoteague for luxurious, locally sourced yarns and a warm, inviting atmosphere for all fiber arts enthusiasts.
Island Roots
4.4 km
Explore the charm of Island Roots in Chincoteague, where unique gifts and beautiful plants await every visitor.
Candylicious
4.7 km
Explore a world of sweetness at Candylicious, Chincoteague's premier candy store offering delightful treats for all ages.
BYOC Build Your Own Cookie
4.8 km
Experience the joy of creativity at BYOC Build Your Own Cookie, where cookie lovers can design their own sweet masterpieces in charming Chincoteague.
Souvenir City Inc 2006
4.8 km
Explore Souvenir City Inc in Chincoteague for unique gifts and charming mementos that capture the essence of your travel experience.
The Brant
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The Salty Pelican
4.8 km
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High Tide Candy Co
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blackfin Island Grill & Tapas Lounge
3.9 km
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Snug Harbor Marina & Resort
3.9 km
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Refuge Inn
3.9 km
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Shark & Manders
4.0 km
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The Pearl
4.1 km
Experience the best seafood on Chincoteague Island at The Pearl, where fresh catches meet stunning waterfront views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Asian Express
4.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Chinese cuisine at Asian Express in Chincoteague, where every dish is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Keko's Bar & Grill
4.1 km
Discover Keko's Bar & Grill in Chincoteague, VA - A culinary gem offering fresh local seafood and a relaxed atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Lily's Little Mexico
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Lily's Little Mexico in Chincoteague, Virginia.
Great Sand Bar of Tom’s Cove
4.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Sand Bar of Tom's Cove, a serene haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Chincoteague, Virginia.
Better.
4.8 km
Experience the best of Chincoteague dining at Better, where fresh ingredients and delightful flavors come together in a cozy atmosphere.
Having A Meltdown
4.8 km
Discover the unique flavors of Having A Meltdown, a top-rated takeout restaurant in Chincoteague, Virginia, perfect for every food lover.
Ledo Pizza
4.9 km
Discover Ledo Pizza in Chincoteague, where delicious rectangular pizzas and a warm atmosphere await tourists seeking a memorable dining experience.
Liz’s Devil Dawgs
5.1 km
Discover Liz’s Devil Dawgs, where delicious hot dogs meet a fun-filled dining experience in the heart of Chincoteague, Virginia.
Backyard Firepit
5.4 km
Experience the best of barbecue at Backyard Firepit in Chincoteague, VA, where smoky flavors and local charm await every visitor.
Blackfin
5.5 km
Savor the best of Chincoteague at Blackfin, where fresh seafood meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
