Since I've been a kid, Ocean City has been the go-to beach in the DMV area. Recently, Ocean City has become a hotspot for COVID. So I decided to opt out of visiting Ocean City and try a new beach: Assateague Island.Assateague Island is a barrier island that straddles the line between Maryland and Virginia. The island is known for its wild horses and private beach. Here's why Assateague Island is better than Ocean City:

   1. Secluded Beach.

Assateague Island is not as popular as Ocean City because it doesn't have a boardwalk and other main attractions (bring your own food and drink or stop at a food place before entering the park). However, that is also what makes the beach special. The beach is secluded and does not attract the crowd of Ocean City. I enjoyed the secluded aspect of the beach especially during COVID times where we have to remain 6 feet apart. I also enjoyed being secluded to gain a peace of mind. The beach is where I like to relax and it's hard doing that when the beach is overly crowded. I would recommend Assateague Island for those who enjoy seclusion and peace.

2. Tropical-like water.

The appearance of the water at Assateague Island reminds me of the water when I visited Jamaica. The purest blues tones of the water glistened through the sun. The water did not have a brown undertone like some man-made beaches in the DMV area. I even got to see some whales while enjoying the landscape. In this moment, I just need a mojito to match the moment in the tropics.

3. Wildlife.

The main attraction of Assateague Island is the wildlife or the wild ponies that are on the island. The moment I entered the park, I was greeted by many ponies on the side of the road. Many cars stopped and took pictures of the ponies. As I walked on the camping grounds, I was greeted by many more ponies. Although I could not pet the ponies, it was cool to see them up close and personal. They were beautiful and of course, I captured photos with the ponies. It was even more breath-taking to see the ponies on the beach.

4. Camping Area.

Walking to the beach, I realized that this island had camping grounds for guests. Many families had tents, campers and RVs. I had nostalgia moment as I walked by since my stepfather used to drive us to various locations in his RV when I was a kid. I remembered what it was like to eat, sleep and play in the RV. I promised myself next time to rent a RV and stay a weekend in Assateague Island for nostalgia purposes. I did get a chance to help pitch a tent for the first time while at Assateague. I will never forget that experience and the lessons I learned while pitching the tent.

Assateague Island is an authentic place to visit if you are looking for seclusion, tropical-like water, wildlife and camping. As a visitor, you will only pay a parking fee and camping fee, if camping. Go and enjoy some wildlife!