If you’re on the hunt for a new summer adventure, look no further than The Northern Outer Banks. Corolla, Carova, the Mainland and Knotts Island offer many unique things that you can only do here. For a one-of-a-kind experience, be sure The Northern Outer Banks is on your daytrip itinerary – or, best of all, your vacation destination.
Because Only in The Northern Outer Banks can you …
Go Off Roading and See Wild Horses
One thing that really sets The Northern Outer Banks apart is the presence of the wild Banker horses. Brought to this region during the 16th century by Spanish explorers, the horses have thrived for centuries along this coastline, and now there are about 100 of them living in Carova, aka the 4WD area. To get a glimpse of these local legends, book a wild horse tour with one of the many providers in Corolla, or if you have your own 4WD vehicle, drive up and look for them yourself. But remember: Always stay at least 50 feet away and never feed them! Also, if you’re driving in the 4WD area from April to October, you will need a Currituck County Parking Permit.
Stay Where It’s Wilder
If you’re craving solitude in a remote location, you can’t go wrong with a stay in Carova. Nowhere else in the Outer Banks do you need a 4WD vehicle to get to a secluded beach spot or a luxury rental home! With no paved roads, no commercial businesses and 11 miles of pristine beachfront, you’ll find a peaceful break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And you might just see those wild horses from your porch.
Climb a Lighthouse with the Whole Family
Currituck Beach Lighthouse, a striking red-brick working beacon, towers over Corolla, and it is open to climbing from late March through November 30. After climbing 220 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of The Northern Outer Banks. This is the only Outer Banks lighthouse that allows kids of all ages to go to the top – and it’s the only one that does not require advanced reservations to climb.
Immerse Yourself in Local History (without driving around!)
Park the car at Historic Corolla Park and discover a wealth of local history. In one central location you can enjoy the lush soundfront park setting; learn about life on the water at the Currituck Maritime Museum; tour the restored 1920s-era Whalehead mansion; discover wildlife at the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education; climb the Currituck Beach Lighthouse; visit the Corolla Wild Horse Museum and Gift Shop; and check out quiet Historic Corolla Village, home to a charming collection of restored historic buildings now operating as modern businesses.
Cool Down at the Waterpark (open May 24 to September 1)
Exclusive to The Northern Outer Banks is H2OBX, the only waterpark on the North Carolina coast. With more than 20 different waterslides and attractions, a child-friendly area, tons of food and drink options and luxury cabanas available to rent, this is the perfect place to spend a fun-filled day with the family.
Sip Wine at Coastal Vineyard
On The Northern Outer Banks Mainland you can find Sanctuary Vineyards, a rare coastal oasis. Established in 2002, it boasts a portfolio of award-winning wines made with European vinifera grapes that flourish in this region. The beautiful grounds feature a tasting room and great events, including the Acoustic Sunset Wine Downs every Thursday evening all summer long.
Taste the Spirited History of the Outer Banks
Buffalo City Distillery’s spirits are imbued with local flavor, as the owners utilize locally grown grain to create their tasty whiskeys and vodkas. Buffalo City Distillery is named for a Prohibition-era moonshining town, sometimes referred to as “the moonshine capital of the world,” that was located near the Outer Banks.
Stock Up at Real Deal Farmers Markets
The Northern Outer Banks Mainland is farming country, and you can find its local bounty at one of many roadside farm markets. You’ll find simple roadside produce stands like Robert’s Ridge Farm and Tarheel Produce along with mega markets like Grandy Farm Market and Greenhouse, Powell’s Roadside Market, Morris Farm Market and Moyock Farm Market, all chock-full of local produce, baked goods, gifts and artisanal delights and more. In Corolla, Seaside Farm Market is the place to find these local goods.
Hit Multiple Fairways and Greens
Take your pick from one of the six golf courses in The Northern Outer Banks: Kilmarlic Golf Club, The Pointe Golf Club, The Carolina Club, Holly Ridge Golf Course and Eagle Creek Golf Club on the Mainland and The Currituck Club in Corolla. Each course has something a little different that makes it great. And if you’d rather make the fun more family-friendly, try mini-golf in Corolla.
Ferry to a “Treasure” Island
From the Mainland community of Currituck, hop on the Knotts Island car ferry. After a short trip across Currituck Sound, you’ll land in the small island community of Knotts Island where local “treasures” await. Take a slow Sunday-style drive past old farmhouses and marshland, hike and birdwatch in Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge, stop at the local market and enjoy the water views before hopping back on the ferry back to the Mainland.
As you can see, a trip to The Northern Outer Banks will satisfy your itch for experiences that are totally unexpected and unique. For more information about how you and your family can enjoy The Northern Outer Banks this summer, visit TheNorthernOuterBanks.com.
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.
