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About 300 species of
birds have been spotted on the refuge. You'll see many birds in the marshes on either side of the causeway (Route 175) that
leads to the islands; and even as you drive across Chincoteague, you're likely to spot
egrets and mallards near the water and occasionally in yards. But some of the best bird
spotting, of course, is on the refuge, either in the marshes along the
main road or in the freshwater impoundments accessible on the three-mile Wildlife Loop
(open to vehicles after 3 p.m).
In addition, Assateague Island offers a
variety of hiking and bicycle trails. Rental bikes are available only a
short walk away from your room at the Driftwood. |
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Assateague Island National
Seashore includes 37 miles of undeveloped
beaches for swimming, surfing, kite flying and surf fishing. At shops near
the Driftwood, you can buy or rent surf
and body boards, and fishing gear and bait are also available. During the summer months,
a section of the beach near the bathhouse is lifeguard protected - and toilet facilities, changing
stalls, and outdoor showers are available. And any time of the year, you
can enjoy a hike on the beach or a jog along the surf line. (The photo below
was taken in May.) |
The Assateague Lighthouse,
which can be viewed from your balcony at the Driftwood, was built in 1833 (and rebuilt in
1867). The lighthouse is 142 feet high, and its light is visible up to 19 nautical miles. (The lighthouse is open to visitors only a few times during the year.)