When it comes to vacationing on the Outer Banks, Nags Head and Cape Hatteras tend to get all the love on the internet.
But among those who know better, Corolla, NC is consistently rated one of the best places to vacation on the Outer Banks—if not the best place to vacation in OBX.
Maybe it’s the wild horses galloping up and down the beaches. Maybe it’s the beautiful lighthouse and rich history of Currituck County. Maybe it’s the gorgeous sunsets.
In fact, it’s difficult to narrow down the list of reasons people seem to flock to Corolla each year, but we’re going to do our best. Here are the top five reasons Corolla is the best place to vacation in the Outer Banks:
1. Pristine Beaches
Because of its natural beauty and the family friendly atmosphere of the town, Corolla has become well-known for its serene beaches, arguably the cleanest and most beautiful beaches on the Outer Banks. With miles of white sand and clear water, Corolla beaches are less crowded than other OBX areas, providing plenty of room to relax and unwind.
Corolla is also known to have some of the smaller waves on OBX. This makes it the perfect destination for families with children and pets. The calmer breakers actually make it a wonderful place to learn how to surf, without taking anything away from the more experienced surfers. And because there aren’t a multitude of open beaches, the beaches in Corolla tend to be less crowded, as well.
2. Outdoor Activities
Certainly, the Outer Banks has plenty to do no matter where you wind up, but Corolla, with its proximity to nearby attractions, offers perhaps the widest range of activities available anywhere in OBX. Whether you’re looking to go fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or horseback riding, Corolla has you covered. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the local wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and (of course) the wild horses.
One very popular outdoor activity in Corolla is fishing because of the wide variety of fish available. Curritick Sound, on the west side of the island, is one of the rare places in the world where freshwater, brackish, and saltwater fish live in very close proximity to one another. The Redfish, for example, lives in both freshwater and saltwater! Looking for a relaxing day of fishing? You can’t beat the quietude of the Sound. Prefer the thrill of the chase and the excitement of reeling in a prize? Try charter fishing on the ocean side of the island!
3. Family-Friendly Attractions
Corolla is home to a variety of family-friendly attractions, including the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, the Whalehead Club, and the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education. These attractions provide fun and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
If it’s an adventure you’re after, look no further than Corolla Adventure Park. Referred to as a “giant jungle gym in the sky,” Corolla Adventure Park offers 11 different circuits and 66 obstacles for climbers of all skill levels. There are also eight zip lines to keep your adrenaline high, and for the Viking in all of us, they also offer ax throwing. If soaring heights and flying axes are your definition of fun, then you won’t want to miss this attraction.
4. Luxury Vacation Rentals
Corolla offers a range of luxury vacation rentals, from oceanfront estates to cozy cottages. These properties provide guests with all the amenities and comforts they need for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation.
Of course, we would be remiss not to mention our own luxury getaways. For lounging by the pool house and enjoying an ocean view, check out An Ocean State of Mind. Have some fun in your personal hot tub, then dry off while playing foosball at Nauti Buoys. Looking to unwind with your own personal master jacuzzi? Check out Nauti Dayz. If your caravan has lots of people who all need to spread out, Nauti Doonz can accommodate up to 32 guests! And finally, if you’re looking for a completely remodeled getaway with all the modern amenities (including an elevator), Nauti Gulls should be at the top of your list.
5. Peaceful Atmosphere
Perhaps the most alluring aspect of Corolla is that it has a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere than OBX destinations. This makes it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a peaceful vacation.
Overall, Corolla, NC offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, luxury accommodations, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it the ideal vacation destination in the Outer Banks.
Ready to start your dream vacation? Click here to explore all our stunning homes. From quaint cottages to luxurious beach houses, we have the perfect place for your quiet getaway. Don’t wait – start your search today and make your vacation dream a reality!