Where is Assateague Island, Maryland / Virginia, USA

Written and fact-checked by | Updated On: February 09, 2026 06:15 AM ET

Assateague Island is located off the coast of Maryland in the Atlantic Ocean, along the Delmarva Peninsula. It lies near Ocean City and Chincoteague Island and is situated at approximately 38.2000° N latitude and 75.2000° W longitude.

Assateague Island Location Map

Where is Assateague Island

Google Map of Assateague Island, Maryland / Virginia, United States

About Assateague Island

Assateague Island is located along the eastern coast of the United States and spans the states of Maryland and Virginia. The island lies in the Atlantic Ocean, separated from the mainland by bays and marshes, and forms part of the Delmarva Peninsula region.

Geographically, Assateague Island is situated at approximately 38.2000° North latitude and 75.2000° West longitude. It is separated from mainland Maryland by Sinepuxent Bay and is accessible via a bridge from the town of Berlin, Maryland. Nearby locations include Ocean City to the north, Chincoteague Island to the south, and the coastal areas of Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

According to available records, Assateague Island has no permanent civilian population, with only park staff present seasonally. The island covers a total land area of about 37 square miles (96 square kilometers), stretching roughly 37 miles in length.

Assateague Island Facts

Island NameAssateague Island
Native NamesAssateague (Algonquian)
CountryUnited States of America
ContinentNorth America
StateMaryland / Virginia
CountyWorcester County (MD), Accomack County (VA)
LocationAtlantic Ocean, off the Delmarva Peninsula
CoordinatesApprox. 38.07° N, 75.21° W
AreaApproximately 37 sq mi (96 Sq Km)
LengthAbout 37 miles (60 km)
WidthUp to 1 mile (1.6 km)
Highest PointApproximately 25 ft (8 m) above sea level (sand dunes)
PopulationNo permanent residents
Administrative StatusProtected barrier island (National Seashore and State Parks)
OwnershipNational Park Service, State of Maryland, Commonwealth of Virginia
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD)
Calling / Area Code410 (MD), 757 (VA)
ZIP Code21811 (MD), 23337 (VA access areas)
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone - UTC -5 (EST), UTC -4 (EDT)
ClimateHumid subtropical climate
GeographyBarrier island with beaches, dunes, marshes, and bays
Famous LandmarkAssateague Island National Seashore
Flora & FaunaWild horses, shorebirds, marsh plants, marine life
Tourist ActivitiesBeachgoing, camping, wildlife viewing, kayaking
AccessRoad access via bridges from Maryland and Virginia
Famous ForWild horses, pristine beaches, protected natural habitats

Attractions in Assateague Island, Maryland / Virginia

  • Assateague Island National Seashore - Protected barrier island known for wild horses, beaches, and coastal ecosystems.
  • Wild Horse Viewing Areas - Designated spots to observe the island’s famous free-roaming horses.
  • Assateague Beach - Wide sandy beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
  • Assateague Lighthouse - Historic lighthouse offering scenic views and maritime history.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing Trails - Calm bays and marsh channels perfect for paddling and exploration.
  • Life of the Marsh Trail - Boardwalk trail showcasing salt marsh habitats and wildlife.
  • Birdwatching Areas - Prime locations to spot migratory birds and coastal species.
  • Fishing and Crabbing Spots - Popular areas for surf fishing, bay fishing, and crabbing.
  • Camping Areas - Beach and bay-side campgrounds offering overnight stays close to nature.
  • Coastal Dunes and Wetlands - Diverse natural landscapes shaped by wind, tides, and storms.

Distance from Assateague Island to Maryland / Virginia Cities

  • Assateague Island - 0 km (0 miles)
  • Ocean City, MD - 15 km (9 miles)
  • Chincoteague, VA - 20 km (12 miles)
  • Salisbury, MD - 55 km (34 miles)
  • Cambridge, MD - 95 km (59 miles)
  • Norfolk, VA - 150 km (93 miles)
  • Virginia Beach, VA - 165 km (103 miles)
  • Annapolis, MD - 165 km (103 miles)
  • Baltimore, MD - 175 km (109 miles)
  • Washington, DC - 200 km (124 miles)