Assateague Island (Ocean City, Berlin, Delmar: rentals, how much, hotels)

[grady205]

I'm thinking of taking the family to Assateague Island for a few days of camping and fun on the beach.We have never been there and would like to get some input or tips from some people who have.We will be going midweek,not on a weekend and was wondering what kind of crowds to expect.We are looking for something a little less crowded than the Nj beaches .We also would like to do some surf fishing,crabbing,and just plain old relaxing on the beach.Thanks for any help in advance.

[Dotty19]

Ohh I use to love Assateague when I was younger! I haven't been in years so I don't know how much more popularity it's gain since I was younger, but I remember it was a very nice quiet place to go to. It was nothing like the Ocean City. Sure there are going to be a lot of families there but not nearly as many. You'll probably be able to go surf fishing and crabbing, but i'm sure there is a time limit on it, so you might want to ask about that. And I know if you want to fish over night you proably have to get a permit of sorts. I can't refer any spots to you because i've never done either unfortunately; but there will probably be staff on hand to assist you if need be. A friend of mine works there so you might see her; they're pretty helpful down there from what I hear. And the ponies will probably be out as well so watch where you step

This page will probably be more helpful than me
Maryland Department of Natural Resources - Maryland Park Service

[bande1102]

I go to Assateague Island for day trips every week in the summer (only go on weekdays--not weekends). One of my favorite beaches of all time. Not crowded at all, unless you happen to go during the annual pony swim. I avoid that week at all costs. This year, it's on July 27th. If you do want to see the ponies, do so by boat b/c the beach is packed and I doubt you'll see anything anyway. I do love to go shortly after the swim b/c you see so many of the wild ponies.

Re the beach itself: There are 3 or 4 lifeguards near the entrance, as you walk further down the beach, there aren't any. Just a heads up. Also, you'll see the occasional wild ponies--give them space, don't touch, pet, or feed. I've never had any type of issue with them at all. Fishing is allowed away from the primary swim area. I don't fish or crab so I don't know anything about the licenses/permits you'd need.

There is a very small shop with limited camping supplies and food/icecream. There is also a bathhouse/restroom. No restaurants, no boardwalk. Very relaxing.

Finally, if you decide to to visit Ocean City, you're only a few miles away. I think it's only about 10 minutes or so to drive to OC if you're so inclined.

[lammius]

Hi, I'm brainstorming ideas for a small group bike tour through Delmarva and was wondering whether or not you can bike the length of Assateague Island, from the Chincoteague entrance to the Maryland entrance. The National Park website says you cannot drive through, but it mentions bike trails and it looks like there's a marked road/trail on Google Maps (not sure if that's really a trail or not). Can you cycle (or cycle and dismount-and-walk several miles) to traverse the island?

[pcity]

Originally Posted by lammius

Hi, I'm brainstorming ideas for a small group bike tour through Delmarva and was wondering whether or not you can bike the length of Assateague Island, from the Chincoteague entrance to the Maryland entrance. The National Park website says you cannot drive through, but it mentions bike trails and it looks like there's a marked road/trail on Google Maps (not sure if that's really a trail or not). Can you cycle (or cycle and dismount-and-walk several miles) to traverse the island?

No trails or real roads go the entire length of the island. Most of that "road" on Google Maps is sand.

You can traverse it in a 4x4 vehicle but you need a permit. Even then, the "road" ends at the VA state line and you can't go all the way from MD entrance to VA entrance.

[HandsUpThumbsDown]

Originally Posted by pcity

. Even then, the "road" ends at the VA state line and you can't go all the way from MD entrance to VA entrance.

Unless it's low tide (don't let any Rangers catch you doing this)

[slowlane3]

Grady, you can get information on Assateague here Reviews of Hotels, Flights and Vacation Rentals - TripAdvisor , including reports / opinions from people who've been there. One thing that I, and others I've talked to, remember unfortunately are the hordes of mosquitos.

[reiflame]

If you go in May or early June, there are no mosquitos.

[DaveinMtAiry]

Originally Posted by reiflame

If you go in May or early June, there are no mosquitos.

I was just about to post something about this. The mosquitos in summer are legendary, trust me you do NOT want to deal with this problem. They may not be there in May but the ocean will be too cold for enjoyment that time of year IMO. There is a national park and a state park, I believe. One sprays for them the other does not. You need to check on this because you will be miserable if you go to the wrong place.

I've never camped there but we stay at a beach house in nearby Berlin and this is our beach. I can't say enough good things about the entire experience. I will take my bike and take a ride, looking at the wild ponies (you know about them, rigth?). Then I drop the bike at the truck, grab the beach chair, and head off. Can't think of a better way to spend a day.

[bande1102]

I spend many, many day son the Assateague beach and the mosquitoes have never been an issue for me enjoying the actual beach.

However, when I camp there, I always choose a beach side site as opposed to the bayside sites. The bay side is intolerable (IMHO) as far as the mosquitoes go. The beach side I can deal with--especially if there is a nice breeze. Speaking of critters, there are also sand fleas that hatch around mid-May. They annoy the heck out of me. All that being said, bug sprays and keeping your campsite secured as possible (zippered up, etc); really does help.