Beach Driving Tips
Driving on The Northern Outer Banks beach — windows down, salty breeze in your hair — is a wonderful thrill, but there are rules and tips you need to know before you head onto the sand. 4WD beach driving is allowed in Carova Beach, the wild horse country north of Corolla, and a permit is required if you plan to park in designated beach parking areas and enjoy some time in the sun between late April and early October. Be sure you know the laws, know how to keep the wild horses safe, and only attempt driving on the sand in a 4WD vehicle.
Beach Driving Tips & FAQs
Learn more about safe beach driving and 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.
- Use a 4WD vehicle and lower tire pressure to 15–25 psi for better traction.
- Drive slowly and cautiously follow the speed limit.
- Pedestrians always have the right-of-way. Watch closely for children, pets, and wild horses.
- Don’t litter. Remove all trash, bait, and fish remains.
- Watch for traffic patterns on signs.
- For details and more safety tips consult the Currituck County website: https://currituckcountync.gov/beach-parking/
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.
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.
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.
