We had actually planned a day at the beach on the famous Outer Banks, but unfortunately the weather had other ideas and canceled our plans with rain and wind.
Plan B – and what a plan it was!
Instead, we spontaneously decided to explore the coast a little further north and drove to Chincoteague Island in Virginia – a real insider tip! The island is best known for its wild ponies, which roam freely through the countryside, and the beautiful Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.
First stop: Island Creamery
Before heading out into nature, we try the famous island ice cream! And not just any ice cream: Island Creamery is considered the most popular ice cream shop on the island.
In good spirits we continued on to the national park. Our first destination: the lighthouse. The path there led through the forest – idyllic, if it hadn’t been for the mosquitoes. Unfortunately, no one had thought to bring mosquito repellent, so the walk turned into a short sprint.
We were rewarded on the way to the beach: we actually got to see the famous wild ponies – a real highlight. Once we arrived at the beach we took a long walk along the coast.
The fresh breeze and the sound of the waves were the perfect antidote to the mosquito adventure.
Then it was lunch time.
We went to the sports bar for some seafood. Afterwards, the group split up: some headed back to Norfolk to pick up a few souvenirs to take home, while others enjoyed the beach atmosphere in the afternoon sun and went out for dinner and a rooftop bar later.
Conclusion: Still, it was a great day!
Even though the original plan fell through, it was an all-around successful day full of nature, adventure, animal encounters, and good vibes.
