Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? You’re not alone. This section covers the questions visitors most commonly ask about essentials like beach driving rules and permits, protecting the wild horses, swimming safety, beach regulations, pet regulations, the best times to visit, distances between attractions, and more. And if you’re hoping to catch that glimpse of a wild horse, here is where you will find regulations that keep them wild & free. We try to cover everything you need to know to have a safe, smooth, and stress-free vacation on The Northern Outer Banks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answers to our most frequently asked questions about The Northern Outer Banks.
Got more questions? Contact Us.
Yes! All of the parking permit purchasing information is located on the Currituck County website. Please follow this link for details.
You may take your personal 4WD vehicle onto the beach in the designated driving areas. It is important to note that 2WD and AWD vehicles will not perform on the beaches, and you risk getting stuck. Please be sure to follow all posted speed limits and obey all traffic laws as if you were driving on pavement. Pay close attention as families and other motorists will be present along the shoreline.
A Currituck County ordinance went into affect May of 2017 and reads: “No person shall drive a motor vehicle on the beach strand or foreshore with tires containing air pressure exceeding 20 pounds per square inch (p.s.i.).” Violators could receive a citation and a fine.
Please follow this link for more details.
One of the best ways to see the famous Corolla Wild Horses is on a guided off-road tour. These wild horse tours can be booked through an adventure tour company or through the Corolla Wild Horse Fund.
**Please note that it is illegal to intentionally come within 50 feet of the wild horses.
No. Only local residents and property owners with the proper permits are authorized to operate an ATV in Currituck County. Please follow this link for more details.
Absolutely! We have historical sites, a wildlife education center, a maritime museum, beautiful golf courses, unique local shops and restaurants, vineyard, breweries, and other activities for the whole family.
Yes! In Season, the lighthouse is open for climbing daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the lighthouse will be open until 8 pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The lighthouse pre-dates modern building codes, so you’ll have to sign a waiver before climbing the 214 steps to the breathtaking views. Don’t forget your camera! Please follow this link for more details.
Corolla is pronounced Kuh-Rah-Luh.
Yes. Check out our area map for beach access locations.
No, you cannot camp on the beaches of The Northern Outer Banks. We do have several campground on The Mainland.
All persons 16 years of age and older wishing to fish in any water designated as coastal and joint waters of North Carolina must purchase a Coastal Recreation Fishing License.
The licenses are available at most area bait and tackle shops.
In the event of a storm, please follow the advice of local emergency broadcasts on radio and television stations. The Currituck County website will be updated with evacuation procedures and warnings for each approaching storm.
*Be sure to check with the rental company, hotel or campground you are staying with to find out their procedures as well.
If you are staying in Corolla, the closest hospital is the Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head.
If you are staying on the Mainland, you are within driving distance to the Outer Banks Hospital, Albermarle Hospital in Elizabeth City, and Chesapeake General Hospital.
No. The Currituck Ferry offers service from The Mainland to Knotts Island only.
Please follow this link for more information on the NC Ferry Division.
