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Sure, the summer season on the Currituck Outer Banks is pretty hard to beat. From the watersports, outdoor dining and days spent lounging on the beach, fun in the sun abounds. But there is so much more to Currituck and Corolla than just the bustling summer months. Over the holidays the Outer Banks is magical, too, full of seasonal activities and cheer. If you have not thought about spending the holidays on the beach, here are 10 reasons why you should make that happen!
1. You can trade in the snow for sand
The first snowfall of the year is special no matter where you are. But after a few weeks of wet, cold weather, you’re probably ready for a change in scenery. While we can’t promise bikini weather, looking out the window onto a beautiful ocean makes even the bleakest of winter days a bit brighter.
2. Natural beauty is everywhere
The Currituck Outer Banks has its fair share of must-see outdoor spots to explore. In Corolla you can walk the Currituck Banks Estuarine Research Reserve, a beloved spot for hikers and bird watchers. On a sunny autumn or winter day, this walk is a treat. As you wrap up your day outdoors, head to Historic Corolla Park for ocean and soundside views. There’s nothing like a winter sunset on the Corolla Outer Banks, and the park is the perfect spot to catch one.
3. Outdoor fun does not stop
On the same note, all your favorite Currituck Outer Banks adventures are still up and running after summer passes us by. Check out a wild horse tour with one of Corolla’s many tour services or go for a nature walk and view some of the beach’s stunning wildlife.
4. You can decompress from the busy season
While the pace of summer is nice and exciting, we all could use a break from the busyness come winter. In Currituck and the northern beaches, the pace is slower and quieter, especially in the off-season. Corolla is a great place to relax and unwind with your loved ones.
5. Spend time with family - in someone else's house
Forget the stress of cleaning and prepping your own home for visitors – with a vacation rental, you’re guaranteed a clean, comfortable place to celebrate the holidays without having to lift a finger. That way, you can save your energy and focus your attention on one another.
6. Have the cooking and decorating done for you
To really leave all the stress and preparation for the holidays behind, hire a caterer or order pre-made holiday meals ahead of time. You can even hire someone to put up a tree for you! While cooking and decorating can be lots of fun, it’s nice to have a hands-free celebration sometimes, too.
7. There's never a dull moment in Historic Corolla Park
For some extra seasonal fun and entertainment, head over to Historic Corolla Village for all the dazzling festivities. From the Whalehead Candlelight Tour and the Corolla Craft Village, to ice skating in the park and finding Santa Claus at the Corolla Village Christmas celebration, you will never be bored on your winter break.
8. You can get all your last-minute shopping done
Some of the best shopping on the Outer Banks is in Corolla. With Corolla Light Town Center, TimBuck II Shopping Village, Monterey Plaza and Historic Corolla Village, you’ll have no trouble finding gifts for everyone in your life. Be sure to check seasonal operation dates and hours before heading out.
9. You can enjoy great, fresh food off-season, too
It is no secret that the Outer Banks is home to some delicious dining, and that doesn’t change in the winter months. You can still experience local seafood and other fare with some seasonal twists. For some top-tier eats, there are restaurants on mainland Currituck as well as on the Corolla Outer Banks, and they’re a lot less crowded this time of year.
10. You'll be sure to make lifelong memories
A holiday spent in paradise with your family and friends will be a trip you will cherish forever. These holidays at the beach will be so memorable they might just become annual traditions.
Plan Ahead!
Whether you are coming for the holidays or thinking of visiting Corolla and the Currituck Outer Banks in the spring, summer or fall of 2024, it is never too soon to start planning. For the best selection of accommodations and specialty services like private chefs, photographers or wedding vendors, now is the time to get planning. No matter the season, Currituck County is ready to greet you. For more information go to VisitCurrituck.com
Coming Up in Currituck
BULLS & BBQ
November 4
Currituck County Rural Center, Powells Point
bullsandbbq.com
THE BIG CURRISHUCK OYSTER FESTIVAL
November 25
Sanctuary Vineyards, Jarvisburg
sanctuaryvineyards.com
CHRISTMAS IN COROLLA
Whalehead Candelight Tour, Corolla Craft Village, Corolla Village Christmas, Ice Skating in Historic Corolla Park
November 24 to December 31
Historic Corolla Village
christmasincorolla.com
Welcome Center
(252) 435-2947
106 Caratoke Highway, Moyock
Visitor Center
(252) 453-9612
500 Hunt Club Drive, Corolla
About the Author Leah Wingenroth
Leah was born and raised on the Outer Banks and is an alumnus of Appalachian State University and King's College. She currently resides in England, writing and managing content in the lifestyle, education, travel and literary publishing sectors.
