New Chincoteague trolley service hits island's hot spots

Make your island vacation as stress-free as possible by leaving your car stationary during your stay.

Fairfield Inn & Suites, by Marriott and KOA Campgrounds on Chincoteague Island are helping guests do just that with a new free trolley service for guests. The trolley drops patrons off at the Assateague Island National Shoreline and Island Creamery.

Initiated by KOA, the trolley service began as a way of bringing guests to and from the beach. With Fairfield Inn & Suites being a sister property of the campground, the two felt it would be perfect to collaborate.

"It’s really spearheaded by the KOA Campgrounds,” Patty Shea, Fairfield Inn & Suites Chincoteague director of sales, said.

Since kicking off the trolley service in late June, the two businesses are already seeing success, with customers grateful for not having to find parking at the busy shoreline or creamery.

The trolley even took guests to the Chincoteague Fairgrounds during Pony Penning in July.

“Here at the Fairfield, for years now, we want to give as much as we can to our guests,” Shea said.

Shea stressed the Fairfield Inn & Suites strives to offer guests more than a hotel room. The trolley is its newest service, accompanied by amenities such as bike rentals and Friday movie nights.

Partnering with KOA was a no brainer for Shea since she's constantly asked if the hotel has a shuttle. For Fairfield Inn & Suites, this was another added value, making guests feel like their room rate goes further.

The trolley needs no reservations or tickets — just hop on and off at each location. Shea said it holds seating for about 30 people and is fully air conditioned.

During the summer months, the trolley runs Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2-8 p.m., Fridays from 2-10 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The trolley travels in the following sequence: KOA, Assateague Shoreline, Island Creamery and Fairfield Inn & Suites.

When school picks up in late August, the trolley will switch to weekend-only hours. In the fall, guests can rent the trolley for special events, according to a press release.

Plan your stay

Fairfield Inn & Suites, by Marriott: 3913 Main St. in Chincoteague, 757-336-0043, Website

KOA Campgrounds: 6742 Maddox Blvd. in Chincoteague, 800-562-7730, Website