Things to Do in Corolla

Corolla, North Carolina, nestled on the northern end of the Outer Banks, offers a variety of activities surely to delight your group. Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, Corolla has something for everyone.

Here are some top things to do in Corolla, NC:

Climb the Currituck Beach Lighthouse

Experience panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound by climbing the 200+ steps of the historic Currituck Beach Lighthouse. This beacon, built in 1875, stands as a testament to the maritime heritage of the Outer Banks.

Located in Corolla, NC, and easily identified with its red brick tower, this lighthouse is open to visitors to climb and explore when visiting the area.  Open mid-March through November.  

Visit the Historic Whalehead Club

Step back in time at the Whalehead Club, a restored 1920s Art Nouveau-style mansion. Situated on 39 acres right on the Currituck Sound, and at the foot of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, the Whalehead Club offers a gorgeous backdrop for any special event. The mansion is open to the public for guided tours showcasing its unique architecture and history.

Drive on the 4x4 Beach

If you're looking for a unique OBX experience, a visit to the 4X4 beach, and the village of Carova is a must-see when vacationing in Corolla.  Accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles, this area of the beach is famous for seeing wild horses roaming freely along the shore and back in the neighborhoods along the beach.  

Pack up the car and park on the beach for the day or book a horse tour where you can be taken to where the horses are. Beach parking passes are required during the months of May-October and can be purchased online ahead of your visit.

Click for more information about driving and parking on the beaches of Corolla.

Climb at the Corolla Adventure Park

For the thrill-seekers in the group, be sure to check out the Corolla Adventure Park, located just past the Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla.  Known for the giant jungle-gym challenges, the adventure park is a great place to experience thrills from high up in the air!  There are 72 different obstacles to choose from, so the options are endless during your two-hour climb.  If you're hungry after the adventure, the park also has snacks and beverages available for purchase at their outdoor bar. 

Play a Round of Golf

Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Currituck Club, a premier golf course designed by Rees Jones, offering scenic views and a challenging game.

Located within the Currituck Club community in Corolla, The Currituck Club golf course allows visitors to play at a world-class location with fantastic views of the Currituck Sound.  Whether you're just a beginner or an avid-golfer, this 18-hole course that has been recognized as one of the Top 25 Courses in NC by Golf Digest, just can't be beat.

Tee-times can be booked online in advance by visiting the Club's website.

Take a Wild Horse Tour

Embark on a guided tour to see the famous Corolla wild horses, descendants of Spanish Mustangs shipwrecked on the beaches of the Outer Banks hundreds of years ago. Several tour companies offer responsible excursions to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Here are just a couple:

Corolla Wild Horse Tours

Wild Horse Adventure Tours

Enjoy Water Sports and Beach Activities

With its pristine beaches, Corolla is perfect for various water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. Local outfitters provide kayak and paddleboard rentals and surf lessons to help you make the most of your beach experience.

Kitty Hawk Kites

  • Address: 819 Ocean Trail, Corolla, NC 27927
  • Website: kittyhawk.com

Visit Historic Corolla Village

Stroll through Historic Corolla Village to explore charming shops, eateries, and restored buildings that reflect the area's rich history. For a complete afternoon, stroll from the village to the nearby historic Whalehead Club and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse.

Relax at the Beach

Of course, no visit to Corolla, North Carolina is complete without spending time on its beautiful beaches. Whether you're sunbathing, swimming or beachcombing, the serene shoreline offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation.

From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, Corolla, NC, provides a variety of activities that will make your vacation extraordinary. Plan your visit to this charming Outer Banks destination and create lasting memories.