The hype
Guests universally adore the sunset views from the balconies and the spotless housekeeping, even if the furniture feels a bit retro.
Waterside Inn
$110-295/ night
Book this if You want a guaranteed waterfront balcony and a family-owned vibe without the corporate resort markup.
Why People Love It
- Every single room has a private balcony with a water view
- Private pier for crabbing, fishing, and watching rocket launches
- Family-owned since 1987 with a genuinely friendly staff
Quick Take: A charmingly dated time capsule where the sunset views are world-class but the breakfast is strictly grab-and-go.
Reviewed by @kate.swarthout: I refused to stay in a boring chain hotel, and this spot was the perfect find. Waking up to that bay view from my balcony was peaceful, and I actually used the free pickleball courts! It feels like a hidden local gem.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The most common complaint is the limited breakfast selection, which many find underwhelming for the price point.
- You refuse to book a room without a water view
- You want a quiet, non-party atmosphere for sleeping
- You enjoy fishing or crabbing directly from your hotel's private pier
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Reviews consistently mention daily service that doesn't cut corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Grout is scrubbed, no mold issues reported, though fixtures are older.
- Maintenance: Excellent. Despite the building's age, everything works. Paint is fresh, ACs are maintained.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel grade. Clean and crisp, but not luxury thread counts.
- Odors & scents: Neutral and fresh. No musty 'old hotel' smell despite the waterfront humidity.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Occasional boat engine noise from the channel
- AC units in older rooms can be hummy
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel has a private marina where you can dock your own boat (call ahead for slip fees)
- There is a glass elevator that offers views as you ride up
- Pickleball courts are on-site and free for guests
What to pack
- Binoculars for watching wild ponies or rocket launches from your balcony
- Crabbing line and net for the private pier
- Your own protein-heavy snacks to supplement the carb-focused breakfast
Room Genie
Best picks
- Diplomat Room (panoramic views, closest to the pier and pool)
- 3rd Floor Deluxe Double Queen (best elevation for sunset photos)
Rooms to avoid
- 1st floor rooms if you want absolute privacy on your balcony (passersby can see in)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love to request a Diplomat Room or a 3rd-floor Deluxe room for the best possible sunset view. If available, a room away from the elevator would be appreciated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the outdoor pool is heated, but it is seasonal (closed Oct-May).
Can I see the wild ponies from the hotel?
You can sometimes spot them with binoculars across the channel, but you're better off driving 2 miles to the Wildlife Refuge.
Is there a resort fee?
No, unlike some neighbors, Waterside Inn does not charge a hidden resort fee. Parking and WiFi are free.
Do all rooms actually have a view?
Yes, the building is designed so every single room faces the Chincoteague Bay with a private balcony.
Is it pet friendly?
No, pets are not allowed. Service animals only.
How is the WiFi?
Reliable and free, generally good enough for streaming but maybe not for heavy remote work uploads.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The private pier is one of the best spots on the island to watch NASA rocket launches from Wallops Island.
- ✨
Walk to the 'Carnival Grounds' (200 yards away) if you're visiting during the Pony Swim in July.
- ✨
The 3rd-floor glass elevator is a hidden gem for a quick photo op of the bay.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'fitness center' is functional but very basic — don't expect a full gym.
💡The hot tub hours can be weirdly restrictive (sometimes closed on weekends), so don't bank your trip on it.
💡You can catch blue crabs right off the hotel dock, and the staff can sometimes help you figure out where to steam them.
💡The bathroom layout in standard rooms is a vanity-style setup with sinks outside the shower/toilet room.
💡It's a favorite for repeat guests (20+ years), so the vibe is very communal and friendly.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Waterside Inn is located and what's nearby.