Explore Responsibly
We hope that you and your family enjoy an amazing vacation in The Northern Outer Banks, and that you not only arrive safe and sound but stay that way throughout your visit. To ensure our guests stay up to date on beach conditions, our SafeCorolla.com site and text notification system is live to inform you of rip currents and severe weather. Text SAFECOROLLA to 888-777 and receive alerts as they happen. Meanwhile take a look at additional information about how to be safe and responsible on your vacation.
MAKE IT YOUR NATURE
The Northern Outer Banks is home to delicate ecosystems, nesting sea turtles, and the famous wild horses of Corolla. To help preserve the natural beauty, leave the beach as you found it:
- Keep off the dunes—they prevent erosion and house fragile vegetation.
- Fill in any holes you dig and topple any sandcastles to protect turtles and prevent accidents.
- Observe horses from at least 50 feet away and never feed them.
RECREATE SAFELY
The Northern Outer Banks of North Carolina—spanning from Corolla and up into the remote reaches of Carova—are known for their pristine beauty, wild horses, and peaceful, uncrowded beaches. But even in this coastal paradise, it’s important to stay mindful of beach safety. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day by the ocean or a full week of seaside fun, following a few simple guidelines can help keep your vacation safe and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
We want everyone to have a fun but safe visit to The Northern Outer Banks and to respect our beautiful natural areas.
Got more questions? Frequently Asked Questions
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. More information can be found on the Currituck County government website.
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 effect in 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 $50.00 fine. The fine for parking on the beach (in season) without a permit is $100.00. The tourism department is updating the Beach Driving pamphlet.
No, you can’t camp on the beaches of Currituck County, but we do have several campgrounds on the mainland.
If you are staying in Corolla, the closest hospital is the Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head. If you are on the Mainland, you are within driving distance to the Outer Banks Hospital, Albermarle Hospital in Elizabeth City and Chesapeake General Hospital.
