My husband and I will be going to Pony Penning in Chincoteague, VA for the first (and probably only) time this July. We want to combine the time there with 2-3 additional days at or near the beach afterwards. What are some good alternatives to Ocean City? We're not really interested in staying longer in Chincoteauge. I am already seeing full bookings for hotels in OC. We also like quaint small towns, antiques, and such. We are from northeast PA so were hoping to find something sort of "on the way home". Any suggestions? Thanks!

Either Berlin or Snow Hill, Maryland might be good for you. Both are close enough to easily reach the beach (Assateague or OC).

Hi
I'm curious about what's wrong with the beach at Assateague Island. That's where you go from Chincoteague.

You should consider seeing the pony swim from a boat if you can. We've only been twice but we went out in kayaks.

There's pictures from our two trips for the pony swim on our web site if you're interested.
www.AlandSueJohnson.com Click on Assateague Island, VA on the first page menu.

Several pictures of Chincoteague, ponies, beaches there as well.

St. Michael's, Maryland. Trust me, you will love it.

Pocono Princess

St. Michael's would do. It is the most touristy town on the true Eastern Shore yet not obnoxiously so. It is within striking distance of Easton, Oxford, Tilghman Island, Kent Narrows, Chestertown and Secretary.

For small town feel, if you want to be at the beach, check out Lewes, Delaware.

Thank you for your beach suggestions! AIJ, we have made a group charter reservation to view the swim on Wednesday. I saw this suggestion some time ago as a good way to see the swim up close, as opposed to viewing from shore. We are staying 2 nights in Princess Anne (couldn't get a room in Chincoteague), so will probably go to Assateague anyway. Nothing against Assateague beach, we just wanted to also hit some other places during the same trip. I also looked at your website, your pictures are wonderful -- thanks for the link!

I second Lewes, DE. Historic homes, great restaurant "The Buttery" close to beach and the ferry to Cape May. Very small, but great main road with shops!

If you are looking to chill at the beach, Rehoboth Beach in DE is a good choice. It is up the coast from OC. It is less touristy and crowded. Lots more houses for rent. You could take the coastal highway north through Fenwick Island and Bethany Beach. I have been to Rehoboth, but not the others. Maybe someone else could weigh in on them.

I would also say Lewes or even Rehoboth, Delaware. They are only about a 35 minute drive from Ocean City.

I also recommend Rehoboth Beach, DE.

St. Michael's, MD is also nice with cute shops and nice restaurants.