Assateague's Day-Use and Beach Areas
What’s in the day-use area?
The day-use area provides access to the beach. Portable toilets are available. Swimming is permitted at your own risk; no lifeguards are on duty. Always use caution when in or around the ocean and be aware of hazards and dangerous conditions including rip currents. Always watch children closely. The day use area is open from 7:00 a.m. to sunset.
The Pony Express Snack Bar
The Pony Express Snack Bar is closed for the season. Please check back next spring for updated hours.
Viewing the Assateague Horses Safely
During your visit to Assateague, you will most likely encounter at least a few of the island's most popular residents. Petting or feeding the wild horses may seem like a harmless and fun thing to do, but the consequences can be terrible. For your safety and the safety of the horses, please obey park regulations and do not approach, touch, or feed the Assateague horses.
Stay at least a "bus length" or 40 feet away, but remember that may still be too close depending on the circumstances. If horses approach you, back off and retreat to a safe distance. Do not take food to the beach unless in a cooler that is zippered or secured with a nylon strap. Even then, if horses approach your food, you must move away.
Assateague horses do bite, kick and can carry rabies. These horses are WILD, and they don't behave like domestic horses. Treat the horses with respect - move back and stay safe.
