Plan Your Trip
Spend less time planning and more time playing. The Northern Outer Banks travel guide and planning resources can help you set up the ideal vacation with ease. From maps and itineraries to FAQs and tips on traveling with pets, let our insider intel help you relax and enjoy every sandy step of your beach adventure.
VISITOR CENTERS
Start your vacation to The Northern Outer Banks at The Northern Outer Banks Welcome Center! Stop in for guides, maps, brochures, discounts, and friendly advice on everything there is to see and do in the area. You can also stop by The Northern Outer Banks Corolla Visitor Center.
Guides
The Northern Outer Banks
The Mainland
The Beaches
Knotts Island
The Northern Outer Banks
Divided into three stunning regions: The Beaches with serene shores and local history, The Mainland rich in culture and nature, and the tranquil charm of Knotts Island – each offering unforgettable coastal experiences.
Select A Region
Knotts Island
Life at the Pace of Nature Immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of the natural world. Hike the Charles Kuralt Trail, birdwatch in Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge, kayak or camp along Currituck Sound, and stock up on snacks at The Island Market.
Mainland
Sound-Country Beauty and Hidden Gems Explore The Mainland, and you’ll uncover a wealth of treasures from eclectic shops and farmers markets to Buffalo City Distillery and Sanctuary Vineyards, five golf courses to H2OBX Waterpark, eastern N.C. barbecue to local seafood.
The Beaches
Those Sweet Beach Town Vibes In the salty breezes of Corolla and Carova Beach, discover the joys of the Corolla wild horses, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, easy beach access, soundside watersports, boutique shopping, local seafood dinners, and craft beer.
Itineraries
Not sure where to start planning your Northern Outer Banks vacation? Simplify your trip with our well-planned itineraries. You’ll find trip plans curated for every type of traveler—families, couples, friend groups, outdoor adventurers, history buffs, and foodies. From weekend getaways to weeklong vacations, we’ll show you the perfect things to do and how to experience the best of The Northern Outer Banks while leaving a door open for a few unexpected surprises. For more inspiration go to our itineraries page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? You’re not alone. This section addresses the questions visitors ask most frequently. We try to cover everything you need to know to have a safe, smooth, and stress-free vacation on The Northern Outer Banks.
Got more questions? Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re heading out for a sunrise walk, an afternoon swim, or a nighttime ghost-crab hunt, you’ll find a stretch of sand with your name on it. In North Carolina, the beaches are public, which means they are free to visit all year round. Corolla Beach accesses include 16 public beach access areas with free parking or walk-up access, as well as accesses in private neighborhoods and communities. Public beach access points offer a range of amenities including parking and dune walkovers and, in some cases, handicapped access, restroom facilities, and showers. In summer, beach parking fills up early, often by 10 or 11 a.m. Access to Carova Beach for 4WD vehicles is found at the northernmost point of N.C. Highway 12 in Corolla.
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.
The Northern Outer Banks is a pet-friendly travel paradise! Learn about beach regulations, leash laws, dog-friendly beaches and trails, and local pet services to make sure your four-legged travel companions have as much fun as you do. Pet-friendly accommodations and vacation rentals are available.
Need a hand during your stay? The Northern Outer Banks has a wide range of services to make your trip easy and enjoyable. Beach, bike, home, and watersports equipment rentals are plentiful, as are concierge services, personal chefs, local guides, transportation options, wedding vendors, and others who will ensure that you have everything you need for a smooth Northern Outer Banks vacation or event. Check out our list of trusted local services to make the most of your time here.
