Corolla Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Corolla, North Carolina with this comprehensive travel guide featuring natural attractions, cultural landmarks, activities, food, and travel logistics.


Introduction to Corolla

Corolla is a charming seaside destination located in the Outer Banks region of North Carolina. This picturesque town is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and scenic natural landscapes. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip to Corolla, North Carolina.

List of Places to Visit in Corolla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Whalehead at Historic Corolla: This restored 1920s-era mansion offers visitors a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of North Carolina’s wealthy families. The mansion is surrounded by lush gardens and located near Currituck Beach Lighthouse.
  • Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education: This nature center features interactive exhibits and educational programs about the local wildlife and ecology of the Outer Banks.

Natural Attractions of Corolla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Currituck National Wildlife Refuge: This vast expanse of land is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including wild horses, waterfowl, and migratory birds. Visitors can hike along the nature trails, go birdwatching, or enjoy a picnic in the great outdoors.
  • Corolla Beaches: Corolla is known for its wide, sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Some of the popular beach spots include Carova Beach, Whalehead Beach, and Currituck Beach.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Corolla

  • North Banks Bicycle and Kayak Rentals: This rental shop offers bikes, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards for exploring the beaches, waterways, and nature trails of Corolla.

Best Things to Do in Corolla: Activities and Tours

  • Wild Horse Tours: Take a tour of Corolla’s wild horses, which roam free throughout the area. These tours allow visitors to see the horses up close and learn about their history and behavior.
  • Kayak Tours: Explore the waterways and marshes around Corolla on a guided kayak tour. These tours provide an opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and ospreys.
  • Fishing Charters: Corolla is a popular destination for deep-sea fishing, and there are several fishing charters in the area that offer half-day and full-day trips.

Week-Long Itinerary for Corolla

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and climb to the top for panoramic views of the area.
Day 2 Tour the Whalehead at Historic Corolla mansion.
Day 3 Spend a day at the beach and go for a swim or surf.
Day 4 Take a guided kayak tour through the marshes and waterways around Corolla.
Day 5 Visit the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education to learn about the local ecology and wildlife.
Day 6 Go on a fishing charter and try your luck at catching some fish.
Day 7 Spend your last day soaking up the sun at one of Corolla’s beautiful beaches.

Food and Drink Scene of Corolla

Must-Try Dishes

  • North Carolina Barbecue: North Carolina is famous for its barbecue, and there are several restaurants in Corolla that serve up this mouthwatering dish.
  • Fresh Seafood: Corolla is located on the coast, so there’s no shortage of fresh seafood dishes to try. Some of the local favorites include crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried oysters.

Local Beverages

  • North Carolina Craft Beer: North Carolina has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are several local breweries in the area that offer beer tastings and tours.
  • Sweet Tea: Sweet tea is the official state beverage of North Carolina, and it’s a refreshing drink to enjoy on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Corolla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Inn at Corolla Light: This elegant hotel is located near the beach and offers a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Corolla Classic Vacations: This vacation rental company offers a variety of rental properties, from cozy cottages to spacious beachfront houses.

What to Buy in Corolla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local Artwork: There are several art galleries in Corolla that showcase the work of local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and pottery.
  • Beach Gear: Corolla is known for its beautiful beaches, so it’s a great place to pick up some beach essentials like sunscreen, beach towels, and hats.

Local Culture and Customs of Corolla

Corolla has a rich history that reflects its unique coastal culture. Visitors should be prepared to embrace the laid-back beach lifestyle and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Best Time to Visit Corolla

The best time to visit Corolla is during the summer months (June-August) when temperatures are warm and the beaches are bustling with activity. However, if you’re looking for a quieter experience, you may want to consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) or fall (September-November).

Do’s and Don’ts of Corolla

Do:

  • Do take a wild horse tour and learn about the area’s history and ecology.
  • Do apply sunscreen frequently, as the sun can be intense during the summer months.
  • Do respect the natural environment and be mindful of potential hazards, like rip currents and wildlife.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash on the beach.
  • Don’t approach the wild horses or try to feed them.
  • Don’t swim alone in the ocean or attempt to go swimming in areas that are marked as dangerous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Corolla

Corolla is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should still be mindful of potential hazards when exploring the area. Be sure to apply sunscreen and stay hydrated if you plan to spend time outdoors. Additionally, be aware of any wildlife hazards, like venomous snakes or jellyfish, and take appropriate precautions.

Health in Corolla

Corolla has several medical facilities, including urgent care centers and hospitals, in case emergency medical attention is needed.

Getting to Corolla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Corolla

The closest airport to Corolla is Norfolk International Airport, which is located about 75 miles away. Other options include Raleigh-Durham International Airport and Richmond International Airport, both of which are about a 3-hour drive from Corolla.

Bus Stations Near Corolla

There are several Greyhound stations located within a 2-hour drive of Corolla, including stations in Elizabeth City, NC, and Virginia Beach, VA.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Corolla, as it is accessible via major highways and interstates. Additionally, there are several shuttle services that operate throughout the Outer Banks region.

How to Get Around in Corolla

The best way to get around Corolla is by car, as many of the attractions and beaches are spread out and not easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can rent a car from one of the several rental car companies located in the area.

Where to Go Next from Corolla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several other destinations within the Outer Banks region that are worth exploring, including:

  • Nags Head: This popular beach town is known for its surf culture and vibrant nightlife scene.
  • Hatteras Island: Located south of Corolla, Hatteras Island is an untouched paradise of stunning beaches and thriving marine life.
  • Wright Brothers National Memorial: This historic site in nearby Kitty Hawk commemorates the Wright Brothers’ first successful flight in 1903.

Conclusion

Corolla is a beautiful and unique coastal destination that offers visitors a perfect balance of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re looking to spend your days lounging on the beach or exploring the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in Corolla, North Carolina.

View from the lighthouse View from the lighthouse