From the windswept beaches of Corolla to the serene mainland vineyards, Currituck County is known for its abundance of spectacular wedding destinations that highlight the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. Dramatic landscapes of high dunes, maritime forests, sound and sea — and, of course, world-renowned sunsets — all set the stage for coastal nuptials that are the picture of romantic seclusion.
Many couples are attracted to the larger-than-life monuments rooted in history, while others enjoy the area’s small town charm that becomes much more intimate come springtime and late fall. The not-so-blazing temperatures in the shoulder seasons are another plus for first-time (or second) brides and grooms saying their vows in spring and fall. And you may find that you aren’t the only ones enamored with miles of uncrowded beaches and more upon which your wedding party can revel.
Sanctuary Vineyards
Set among hundreds of acres of farmland on the Currituck mainland, these quaint coastal vineyards are well known among Outer Banks wedding professionals as one of the most sought-after venues in the area, not only for their stunning visual appeal but also for the world-class wines produced on site. Ten acres of grapes from Tempranillo to Syrah and the classic Muscadine create a backdrop unlike any other, and with the option to add wine tastings and vineyard hayrides to your special occasion, a get-together at Sanctuary Vineyards is sure to be remembered for years to come.
The vineyards flourish under the centuries-old farming experience of the Wright family — no, not Orville and Wilbur — although the vineyards’ flagship red is called the Wright Brothers Reserve. And speaking of their wines, you’ll find many are named with Outer Banks icons in mind, from the dry Wild Pony White to the sweet rosé called The Lightkeeper. Soon-to-be newlyweds can simply rent the vineyards for their big day or request any manner of splendid additions such as the wine tastings and hayrides, rentals, bartenders and even a concierge service. The migratory snow geese may be in attendance as springtime vows are made, and an evening reception will surely have strands of twinkling lights competing with Currituck’s wide-open starry skies.
Historic Corolla Park
At Historic Corolla Park, the fascinating history of the Outer Banks and the spectacular natural beauty of the Currituck Sound are joined in one perfect union. The centerpiece of the park is the 1920s Whalehead mansion, an Art Nouveau-style home renowned for its architecture and romantic history. Surrounded by 39 acres of manicured lawns shaded by live oaks, the grand home contrasts beautifully against the Currituck Sound, and when the sun begins to set, painting the sky warm hues of red and orange, the view is unparalleled.
From any vantage point within the park, look up to see another of Corolla’s main attractions: the towering Currituck Beach Lighthouse. This brick structure has 220 stairs to the top and provides a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Corolla. (It looks pretty great in wedding photos too!) The lighthouse, along with Whalehead, makes Historic Corolla Park one of Corolla’s greatest draws for visitors. And between the two historic structures, the soundfront gazebo and a more than picturesque boathouse, couples have a fun time deciding where exactly they will say I Do.
Carova Beaches
Of course, when most couples envision their destination wedding on the Outer Banks, they think of the beach. From the shores of Corolla to the southernmost point of Ocracoke, all of our beaches are tempting for a seaside ceremony, but there’s something about that stretch of sand beyond the paved roads that speaks of seclusion and abandon. You know it when you see the wild Spanish mustangs sparring in the shore break or the miles of windswept dunes that make you feel as though you are off the map entirely.
Brides and grooms who choose the beaches of Carova for their nuptials tend to wed on the seashore and then hold their reception in one of the oceanfront estates designed specifically for special events. These homes feature generous gathering areas both indoors and out, kitchens fit for a team of chefs, private pools and other amenities for large groups. They also make for great week-long beach retreats on either side of the wedding.
If you do choose to start your new life on the beaches of Carova, you can feel free to take photos with the mustangs, but please respect their wild nature by maintaining a safe distance.
The Currituck Club
Ideally situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Sound, the scenic, championship golf course at The Currituck Club spans across maritime forests, wetlands and miles of shoreline. Designed by Rees Jones, this links-style course features 18 holes, an all-grass driving range and banquet and tournament facilities. But avid golfers aren’t the only ones attracted to the course — brides and grooms have been known to say their vows on the green, in the elegant clubhouse and on the soundfront ceremony site alongside the setting sun.
The panoramic view from the expansive private dining spaces overlooking the golf course will not soon be forgotten by anyone in attendance. And with a private events team on site, couples will have all the planning help they need, from choosing ceremony and reception decor to designing menus for specific tastes. The wedding professionals at The Currituck Club will assist brides and grooms in planning the intimate gathering or extravagant celebration they envisioned when they first chose the Currituck Outer Banks as their wedding destination.
Be sure to visit the Currituck County Welcome Center while planning your coastal vows. The helpful staff will have a plethora of free resources on hand, including information about the area, lists of local accommodations, recommendations for wedding vendors, transportation tips and other practical information such as how you can obtain a marriage license and permit. In addition to the featured destinations above, the Welcome Center staff will also be able to provide you with the details of other venues in the area including the Corolla Chapel, The Pointe Golf Club, Kilmarlic Golf Club and the vineyards on Knotts Island.
Whether your heart’s desire is historical emersion or a simple gust of wild ocean air, the start of your new married life awaits in Currituck County.
Currituck Outer Banks Visitor’s Center:
(252) 453-9612 | 500 Hunt Club Drive, Corolla
Currituck County Tourism Department & Welcome Center:
(252) 453-2947, (877) 287-7488 | 106 Caratoke Highway, Moyock
visitcurrituck.com
About the Author Lexi Holian
Lexi Holian was born and raised on the Outer Banks and cannot remember a time when she wasn’t writing. She can often be found planning her next trip abroad but will always return to the Outer Banks, her place of greatest inspiration. You can contact Lexi at lexi@oneboat.com.
