The Outer Banks is one of the only places on the East Coast where you can drive on the beach.
The use of 4-wheel drive vehicles has long been a tradition for locals and visitors looking to enjoy the much of the Outer Banks' miles of beaches. Whether you're visiting Corolla, Carova Beach, or Cape Hatteras National Seashore, beach driving offers a unique way, and in some cases the only way, to explore the stunning coastline. From finding the best fishing spots, to your own private part of the beach, sometimes you have to go off road.
If you're staying in one of our Outer Banks vacation rentals, you’ll be just minutes away from some of the best 4x4 beach access in North Carolina.
Where Can You Drive on the Beach in the Outer Banks?
Beach driving is allowed in select areas of the Outer Banks, including:
Corolla and Carova Beach – Home to the famous Corolla Wild Horses, this area is only accessible by 4WD vehicles.
The towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills
Cape Hatteras National Seashore – Designated Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) ramps are available for use by drivers with an ORV permit.
Ocracoke Island – Remote and scenic, with miles of open shoreline to explore.
Beach Driving Rules and Tips
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, follow these essential Outer Banks beach driving tips:
4WD Required – Soft sand can be challenging, so only 4-wheel drive vehicles should attempt beach driving.
Air Down Your Tires – Lower your tire pressure to 15-20 PSI for better traction in the sand.
Obtain Permits – Some areas, like Cape Hatteras, require an ORV permit.
Respect Wildlife & Dunes – Stay off the dunes and watch for wild horses in Corolla and Carova Beach.
Follow Local Regulations – Speed limits and seasonal restrictions apply.
Towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills
Four-wheel drive, state inspected vehicles with a proper permit/sticker, are allowed on the beach from October 1st through April 30th each year.
Driving times are 30 minutes prior to sunrise through 30 minutes after sunset daily.
Display your sticker on the inside driver's side windshield of the vehicle.
To balance recreation with environmental conservation, the National Park Service carefully manages ORV use to protect important wildlife habitats while maintaining visitor access. To drive on the beaches within Cape Hatteras National Seashore, an ORV permit is required. Keep in mind that beach access may change throughout the year, especially during the breeding seasons of protected birds and sea turtles. Always follow posted signage, as it reflects the most up-to-date access information.
Driving and Parking on Corolla and Carova 4WD Beaches
With no paved roads leading north of Corolla, visitors can enjoy a true off-road adventure, driving through soft sands and taking in breathtaking ocean views, all while keeping an eye out for the famous wild horses of Corolla.
Keep in mind that the beach north of the paved road in Corolla is a Public Vehicular Access Area. This is the only way for people to access their homes and businesses in the 4WD area. Please pay close attention to the rules to keep everyone safe on the beach.
Vehicles are required to use driving lanes adjacent to the dune line from 9am until 5pm beginning the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. All other times, use driving lanes adjacent to the dune line or at the shoreline.
Share the road. Watch for pedestrians, horses, and other wildlife.
All vehicles driven on the beach and roads behind the dunes must be registered, properly licensed, and insured.
Driving in the surf or driving in a repeated circular motion are examples of careless and reckless driving.
After dark, the entire beach including parking areas become driving lanes.
Beach Parking Permits
Beach Parking Permits are required to park on the beaches north of the paved road from the last Saturday of April through the first Saturday in October.
The passes are limited to 300 per week, so don't delay purchasing your permit if you intend to park on the 4WD beaches.
Visitors not renting in the 4-Wheel Drive Area may purchase a weekly Beach Parking Permit through Currituck County
The parking permit must be properly displayed to park on the beach.
All vehicles should be parked in the middle of the beach strand and not obstruct the traffic lane.
Don't place your beach chairs, belongings or fishing lines in the vehicle lanes - you might need to move your belongings with tide changes.
Parking is prohibited for the first 1.5 miles North of the 4X4 ramp.
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