The secret is out––Outer Banks beaches are some of the best on the east coast. Miles of unspoiled coastline, beautiful sandy beaches, and picturesque ocean views draw visitors from far and wide. So, vacationers should set aside plenty of time to set up a towel or beach chair and stretch out on OBX’s most prominent attraction––the beaches.
Corolla Beach is one of seven northern beaches at OBX. With its charming small towns and herds of wild horses, it’s become a popular destination for vacationers. It’s a must-see on your OBX vacation itinerary.
When you’re ready to plan your visit, please follow this list of Corolla Beach rules – doing so will help us keep Corolla and all of OBX beautiful, clean, and safe for everyone.
⛱ Corolla Beach Rules
- No swimming within 300 feet of a fishing pier.
- Do not walk over dunes or pick live sea oats growing on dunes or beaches.
- Refill any large holes dug (in some towns, leaving holes unfilled is illegal, and you could be fined).
- Do not feed wildlife, including wild horses.
- After 11 pm, be mindful of nearby noise ordinances.
- Do not litter.
- Nudity is not permitted on any Outer Banks beach.
- Camping is permitted at designated campgrounds only.
- Items––such as canopies, umbrellas, fishing gear, etc.––should not be left on the beach overnight and should not block pedestrian or vehicle traffic during the day.
🚙 Corolla Beach Vehicle Rules
- A permit is required when parking on the beach between April 20 and October 1. Weekly passes may be purchased if your rental home does not provide them.
- Year-round access is permitted north of NC-12 where the paved road ends. South of this point, vehicle access is only permitted between October 1 and April 30.
- A current, valid driver’s license is required.
- 4×4 or off-road vehicle (ORV) is required to access the beach.
- Obey all posted speed limit signs, not to exceed 25 mph on the beach, slower near beachgoers, pets, wild animals.
- Keep back from wildlife, including wild horses, by at least 50 feet.
- Park perpendicular to the ocean in the middle of the beach.
- Each vehicle should carry tow straps, a shovel, a spare tire, and a jack and jack board.
- Open containers of alcohol are prohibited in vehicles.
- Pedestrians always have the right of way.
🦮 Corolla Beach Pet Rules
- Pets are permitted and must remain on a leash (no leash length requirement).
- Owners must collect all pet waste immediately and properly dispose of it.
🔥 Corolla Beach Fire Rules
- Open burning, including bonfires, is not allowed on the beach.
- Self-contained portable fire pits with covers are allowed on the beach and must be removed from the beach every evening.
- No fireworks are permitted on the beach.
🥂 Corolla Beach Alcohol Rules
- Alcohol is permitted on the beach.
- Glass containers are not allowed on the beach.
- Open containers of alcohol are not permitted in vehicles on the beach.
- Do not drink and drive.
🔦 Corolla Beach Metal Detector Rules
- Metal detecting is allowed on the beach.
🏄♂️ Corolla Beach Surf Fishing
- Surf fishing is allowed from the beach.
- A fishing license is required.
Spending your day at Corolla Beach is part of what makes vacationing in OBX so relaxing. Following Corolla Beach rules and consulting lifeguards for additional help when necessary are the best ways to keep your family and friends safe when enjoying the sun and surf.
There’s no shortage of fun found on OBX beaches–but however you spend your day, don’t forget to…
Stay Nauti! ????