No matter your age, you can easily bond over a day spent on the Northern Outer Banks… an exciting, breathtaking, wild horse tour, climbing the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, biking scenic pathways, walking the beautiful shoreline, or cooling off with a scoop of ice cream after a full day of adventure.
When it’s time to take a break from the surf and sand, and the little ones still need to burn off some energy, set aside a few hours at some of our favorite attractions on the Northern Outer Banks.
Climb the Currituck Beach Lighthouse (4+)
One of Corolla’s most iconic experiences is climbing the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Adventurous kids and adults can make the climb to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Currituck Sound, and the surrounding Outer Banks landscape. It’s a memorable way to experience local history while enjoying one of the best views in the Northern Outer Banks.
See the Corolla Wild Horses
A visit to the Northern Outer Banks isn’t complete without seeing the legendary Corolla Wild Horses. These descendants of Colonial Spanish Mustangs have roamed the northern beaches for centuries and are some of the most treasured residents on the Northern Outer Banks. Guided wild horse tours take families onto the four-wheel-drive beaches where these magnificent animals live, providing a unique adventure that children will remember long after vacation ends.
Mini Golf and Go-Karts
Looking for a little friendly family competition? Corolla and the surrounding area offer mini golf courses and go-kart attractions that are perfect for an afternoon of laughs and bragging rights. Whether you’re sinking a hole-in-one or racing around the track, these classic vacation activities are always a hit with kids and parents alike.
Corolla Adventure Park (5+)
Corolla Adventure Park is a popular spot where you can enjoy fresh air and challenging obstacles. This enormous outdoor jungle gym in the sky offers more than ten different circuits, eight zip lines, and an axe-throwing range. This is one of the most unique experiences available. The park currently accepts reservations on their website.
H2OBX Waterpark
One of the Northern Outer Bank’s most popular family attractions, H2OBX Waterpark is packed with excitement for all ages. With more than 30 rides, slides and wave pools, families can spend an entire day cooling off and making memories together. This park features splash zones and interactive play areas for toddlers and young children. Day and weekly tickets as well as season passes are available on their website.
Explore Historic Corolla Park
Historic Corolla Park is the perfect place for families to slow down and explore. Stroll the grounds surrounding the Whalehead mansion, enjoy open green spaces, and take in stunning waterfront views. The little ones will love spending time climbing and sliding on the new playground in the park featuring a giant goose. Throughout the year, the park hosts seasonal events, festivals, outdoor programs, and family activities that bring the community together and provide even more reasons to visit.
Currituck Maritime Museum
Whether it’s your first or your fifteenth visit to Corolla, be sure to set aside time to visit the Currituck Maritime Museum. This family-friendly exhibit experience features historic boats and artifacts that tell the stories of the people who lived and worked on the region’s waterways. Kids and adults alike can discover how Currituck’s maritime heritage shaped the county’s culture, economy, and way of life.
Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education
The Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education welcomes children of all ages to participate in activities that promote our county’s natural history. Currituck County is home to a remarkable variety of birds, reptiles, fish, and other wildlife. Families can explore interactive exhibits, learn about local habitats, discover the history of waterfowl hunting and conservation. Throughout the summer, the center often offers hands-on activities, demonstrations, and family-friendly events that help young visitors connect with the natural world.
The Estuarine Boardwalk
The Estuarine Boardwalk and surrounding pathways provide opportunities to observe native plants, migratory birds, turtles, and other wildlife that thrive in the Northern Outer Banks’ unique coastal environment. Interpretive signs along the way help children learn about the ecosystems that make the Outer Banks such a special place. These outdoor adventures offer a slower-paced way to connect with nature and each other.
Save Room for Ice Cream
Every great family vacation deserves a sweet ending. After a day of climbing lighthouses, paddling the sound, spotting wild horses, or playing on the beach, treat the kids to an ice cream stop in Corolla. Whether you prefer a classic cone, a fancy sundae, or a frozen treat enjoyed while strolling through Corolla Village or Historic Corolla Park, it’s the perfect way to cap off a summer day on the Northern Outer Banks.
Make Memories That Last
No matter what you’re doing, the time spent with loved ones laughing, talking, playing or just sharing a beautiful moment…. the memories that you make here will last a lifetime. If you need more ideas to make your family vacation an unforgettable experience, be sure to download a Visitor’s Guide and continue exploring all the family-friendly adventures waiting for you in the Northern Outer Banks.
