Corolla

Wild beauty

At the northernmost point of the Outer Banks, visitors will come to the end of the paved road where the 4WD beach access begins, leading to the areas of Carova, Swan Beach, and North Swan Beach. This part of the beach, known as the 4×4 beach, is home to Corolla’s treasured wild horses. A four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to access this area due to the soft sand and irregular driving conditions. The best way to see the Corolla wild horses is to take a guided tour. The tour guides are knowledgeable about the horses, as well as the history and ecology of the area. If you decide to venture out on your own in a 4WD vehicle, be sure to educate yourself on the regulations for beach driving, including ordinances, parking regulations, tire pressure guidelines, and purchasing a 4×4 area parking permit. Details are available at VisitCurrituck.com or call 252-435-2947. Remember that it is against the law to approach, lure, touch, feed or come within 50 feet of the Corolla wild horses for your safety, as well as the protection of the horses.

Corolla is a quaint, seaside village at the northernmost area of the Outer Banks, steeped in history and culture.   Home to the beautiful red brick Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and Whalehead, a historic 1920’s Art Nouveau mansion and house museum, Whalehead has an iconic historic footbridge and a public boat access to the Currituck Sound. A short walk brings visitors to Historic Corolla Village,  with shopping, restaurants and vintage charm. A visit to Corolla isn’t complete without climbing the 220 steps up the beautiful, red Currituck Beach Lighthouse, where breathtaking views of the Currituck Sound and Atlantic Ocean await you. Climb down, and visit the Keeper’s Dwelling, the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, or picnic on the expansive lawn of the Historic Corolla Park.