24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Corolla, NC
Are you planning a trip to Corolla, North Carolina, and looking for fun activities to make your trip memorable? Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll explore the 24 best and fun things to do in Corolla, NC, making your trip unforgettable.
Tucked between Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean along the scenic coast of North Carolina, Corolla stands as a jewel of the Outer Banks. This beautiful town is a haven of beauty, history, and recreation.
With a landscape that ranges from pristine beaches to historical landmarks, Corolla offers an abundance of activities for every kind of traveller. Explore the historic Corolla Park, visit the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge, and saddle the horse at Corolla and Carova beaches.
24 Best and Fun Things To Do In Corolla, NC (2024)
1. Corolla Beach
Begin your Corolla adventure by exploring the town’s coastline. The soft, sandy shores of Corolla Beach are a beehive of fun outdoor activities.
Corolla Beach is a paradise for sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers alike. The golden sands stretch for miles, offering plenty of space for beach games, picnics, and relaxation.
The waters of the Atlantic are refreshing, making it ideal for swimming during the summer months. Moreover, surfers can catch impressive waves, especially during the peak season.
Address: 601Â Ocean Trail, Corolla, NC, United States
2. Historic Corolla Park
One of the free things to do in Corolla, NC, today is to explore Historic Corolla Park. Located in the heart of Corolla, Historic Crolla Park is home to some of the most breathtaking and picturesque sunsets on the Outer Banks.
Sitting on 39 acres, Historic Corolla Park features four unique attractions and offers open green spaces ideal for biking, walking, fishing, crabbing, and hosting events of all sizes. One of the park’s most prominent attractions is Whalehead, a 1920s-era architectural masterpiece and museum.
On your visit, explore this scenic park and its unique attractions. Engage in outdoor recreation like picnicking and biking, among others.
Address:Â 1160 Village Lane, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
3. The Whalehead in Historic Corolla
One of the must-visit attractions in Corolla, North Carolina, is the Whalehead in Historic Corolla, also known as the Whalehead Club.
Spanning across 39 acres, this 1920s-era architectural masterpiece and museum is a testament to Corolla’s architectural and historical heritage. Originally a hunting retreat, this Art Nouveau mansion has been meticulously restored to its former glory.
Its impressive structure, with its copper roof and elegant interiors, takes you back in time. Guided tours provide insights into the lavish lifestyle of the original owners and the history of Corolla.
Address:Â 1100 Club Road, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
4. Currituck Beach Lighthouse
One of the many cheap, fun things to do in Corolla is to visit the iconic Currituck Beach Lighthouse. First lit in 1875, this iconic red-brick lighthouse is more than just a navigation aid.
The Currituck Beach Light stands tall, beckoning visitors to ascend its spiral of 220 steps to the top for an unparalleled view of the Currituck Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, and the lush landscapes of Corolla.
The lighthouse grounds also feature a museum shop and interpretative exhibits about the rich maritime history of the region.
Address:Â 1101 Corolla Village Road, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
5. Corolla Adventure Golf and Bumper Cars
If you’re visiting with your family, exploring the Corolla Adventure Golf and Bumper Cars is one of the unique family-fun things to do in Corolla.
This unique attraction features a 27-hole-themed mini-golf course, complete with a miniature Whalehaed and Currituck Beach Lighthouse, that offers a challenge to people of all ages. It also offers numerous arcade games and Spin Zone bumper cars, which delight children.
To make the most of your visit, spend time with your family at this recreational facility and play the three 9-hole Corolla-themed mini-golf courses.
Address:Â 808 Ocean Trail, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
6. Corolla Wild Horse Museum
Looking for fun things to do in Corolla, NC? Then, visit the Corolla Wild Horse Museum, one of Corolla’s top attractions.
The Corolla Wild Horse Fund runs the Wild Horse Museum in Old Corolla Village, where it educates visitors about the history of the wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs that once roamed the Currituck Outer Banks’ northern beaches.
The museum features touch exhibits for children, a wall-sized aerial map of the horses’ range, video displays, and well-trained staff to answer questions about how to see the horses and learn about their historical significance.
You can also buy a souvenir at the gift shop as a way of supporting the wild horses.
Address:Â 1130E, Corolla Village Road, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
7. Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education
One of the best things to do in Corolla, NC, is to visit the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education. This 22,000-square-foot facility offers educational programs exploring coastal North Carolina’s history and heritage.
The center teaches visitors about birding, sound ecology, ocean ecology, animal tracking, sea turtles, fishing, orienteering, and many more.
It also features many exhibits, ranging from historical artifacts to an 8,000-gallon aquarium. The center also has an auditorium that features a rotation of various educational films.
On your visit, you get to learn about the ecosystem of the Outer Banks and its rich history of wildlife and outdoor sports. You also learn the basics of fishing, crabbing, archery, aquarium maintenance, and much more.
Address:Â 1160 Village Lane, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
8. Kitty Hawk Kites
One of the fun outdoor activities to do in Corolla, NC, during the summer is to seek adventure at Kitty Hawk Kites. This adventure company provides a gateway to outdoor activities, from hang gliding, surfing, sailboat cruising, wakeboarding, water skiing, and kite flying to stand-up paddleboarding.
With locations in Nags Head, Corolla, and Hatteras, this adventure company offers thrills and great outdoor experiences to adventure enthusiasts.Â
Address:Â 819 Ocean Trail, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
9. Corolla Wild Horse Tour
The Corolla Wild Horse Tour is one of the unique things to do in Corolla, NC. This local agency offers top-rated viewing tours of state-of-the-art Hummer H1 vehicles.
The tour takes about two hours and covers 25 miles of off-road cruising. Taking you behind the dunes, you get to witness the horses as they graze, play, and run free, all while maintaining a respectful distance to ensure their well-being.
Along the tour, you can see interesting sites and the local history of Corolla’s Wild Horses.
Address:Â 610 Currituck Clubhouse Drive, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
Are you exploring other attractions near Corolla? Why not check out some fun things to do in Duck, NC and fun things to do in Nags Head, NC?
10. Corolla and Duck Parasail
One of the family-friendly things to do in Corolla is to explore the beauty of the Outer Banks with Corolla and Duck Parasail.
Soaring high at 500 feet or 800 feet of line, this fun outdoor activity offers a panoramic view of the incredible islands. In this enjoyable outdoor activity, a speedboat propels you while you glide through the air in a parachute.
With professional and friendly captains, Corolla and Duck Parasail leave you with an unforgettable, high-flying experience.
Address:Â 1446 Duck Road, Duck, NC 27949, United StatesÂ
11. Corolla Watersports
One of the fun things to do in Corolla, NC, today is to engage in water sports. The town’s waterways provide the perfect canvas for exploring the picturesque surroundings of the Outer Banks.
You can rent a kayak, boat, or paddleboard at Corolla Watersports and embark on a serene journey across the Currituck Sound.
The calm and protected waters of the sound are particularly well-suited for beginners, while seasoned paddlers can venture farther into the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Address:Â 798K Sunset Blvd, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
12. CAMA Sound Boardwalk
One of the many free outdoor activities to do in Corolla, NC, today is to take a leisurely walk along the CAMA Sound Boardwalk.
Located at the end of Historic Corolla Park, this half-mile boardwalk cuts through a small portion of swamp forest and brackish marsh. The boardwalk extends to a nice resting spot on Currituck Sound, showcasing a variety of flora and fauna.
As you stroll along the CAMA Sound Boardwalk, you might come across animals such as deer, muskrat, nutria, fox, possum, river otter, raccoon, turtles, and a variety of birds such as songbirds, osprey, gulls, and wading birds, among others.
Address:Â 1101 Corolla Village Road, Corolla, NC, United States
13. Corolla Adventure Park
Exploring Corolla Adventure Park is one of the unique things to do in Corolla, NC, with kids. This giant jungle gym in the sky offers fun and challenges for the whole family.
The park features 72 obstacles and eight zip lines 12–50 feet above the grounds. The park’s obstacles are arranged on 12 different circuits, allowing visitors to create their own experience during the 2-hour climb. The park also offers axe throwing and a nature trail for nature enthusiasts.
Beyond the adventure, the park has an outdoor bar to get snacks and beverages for a family gathering.
Address:Â 1215 Ponton Lane, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
14. Currituck Maritime Museum
One of the best things to do in Corolla, NC, for history buffs is to visit the Currituck Maritime Museum.
Located in the heart of Historic Corolla Park, surrounded by the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, this museum houses and interprets the history of the Currituck County maritime sector.
Sitting on 10,000 square feet, the Currituck Maritime Museum features family-friendly exhibits that showcase several restored boats that have defined Currituck maritime history.
The museum also features photography, videography, hands-on exhibits, artifacts, demonstrations, and educational programs that make for a wonderful experience.
Address:Â 1101 Corolla Light, Corolla, NC 27927
15. Currituck Club
Established in 1996, the Currituck Club is an 18-hole championship Outer Banks golf course conveniently located in Corolla, North Carolina.
Designed by award-winning designer Rees Jones, this golf course is a pleasure for golfers of any skill level. The course is challenging yet provides a relaxing, picturesque backdrop.
Rated as one of the top semi-private golf courses in the Outer Banks area, the club features a beautiful 6,885-yard Par 72 championship course and a beautiful clubhouse equipped with a full-service restaurant and bar.
Add this golf course to your bucket list of things to do in Corolla, NC, this weekend.
Address:Â 620 Currituck Clubhouse Dr, Corolla, NC 27927Â
16. R/C Kill Devil Hills Movies 10
Just a 45-minute drive from Corolla, catching your favourite movie at the R/C Kill Devil Hills Movies 10 is one of the fun things to do near Corolla, NC, at night.
R/C Kill Devil Hills Movies 10 is the only theatre for the beach’s Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head stretch. It features multiple screens, digital projection, a 3D digital projection for certain films, rocking chairs, and a game room.
To see a movie, check their schedule and spend a few hours with your family to see the latest blockbuster release.
Address:Â 1803 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948, United States
17. Corolla Raceway
One of the family fun things to do in Corolla, NC, today is to experience adventure at Corolla Raceway. This amusement park offers a variety of activities for adults and children alike.
Corolla Raceway features a large track with super-fast go-karts, arcade games, and bumper cars. Their game room features redemption games, video machines, basketball, and a ski ball.
18. Currituck Outer Banks Visitors Center
One of the must-visit destinations in Corolla, NC, is the Currituck Outer Banks Visitor Center. The Currituck Outer Banks Visitor Center is a great place to find information about the town and regional area.
This tourist information center has experienced staff who provide tourists with recent information on the area. Information you could get at the center includes places to stay, things to do, restaurants, shopping, free maps, weather reports, brochures, guides, events, and road conditions.
If you ever need help exploring Corolla, NC, find your way to the Currituck Outer Banks Visitor Center.
Address:Â 500 Hunt Club Drive, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
19. OBX Bait and Tackle
Fishing is one of the many water recreations in Corolla, and OBX Bait and Tackle is where to get all your fishing gear.
Established in 2016, OBX Bait and Tackle offers a huge selection of fishing supplies like rods, lures, reels, and live frozen or fresh baits, including large bloodworms and crab bait, to prepare you for your expeditions.
They also offer charter fishing aboard the Carolina Girl and eight prominent Outer Banks charter fishing boats.
As part of the fun things to do in Corolla, climb aboard the modern fleets and enjoy a whole-day or half-day fishing charter. You’ll experience personalized service and instructions on how and where to fish and crab.
Address:Â 815 Ocean Trail B, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
Are you exploring other attractions in North Carolina? Why not check out some fun things to do in Fayetteville, NC and fun things to do in Murphy, NC?
20. Duck Town Park Boardwalk
Located in Duck, NC, strolling along the charming Duck Town Park Broadwalk is one of the fun things to do near Corolla.
Stretching over 3,000 feet into the water, this wooden promenade skirts the tranquil waters of the Currituck Sound, offering a captivating panorama of the surrounding beauty.
As the sun casts its golden hues across the water and a gentle breeze rustles through the reeds, you’ll quickly discover the soothing essence of Duck.
Walk along the boardwalk and catch a glimpse of waterfowl, wildlife, and migratory birds that also flock here, enjoying the calm waters and peaceful vibes.
Address:Â Duck Town Park Boardwalk, Duck, NC 27949, United States
21. Currituck Sound
The Currituck Sound is a protected inlet featuring relatively shallow and calm water and is a perfect destination for water activities and outdoor recreation.
This inlet, which stretches 36 miles north-south and 8 miles at its widest, is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by the Currituck Banks Peninsula, formerly Bodie Island.
As part of the fun things to do in Corolla, you can engage in watersports activities in the sound, such as parasailing, sea kayaking, and jet skiing.
Address: Currituck Sound, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
22. Historic Corolla Village
The Historic Corolla Village is one of the popular attractions in the Currituck Outer Banks. This old-fashioned destination is lined with buildings dating back to the 1800s.
The village has many unique attractions, including the Whalehead Mansion, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, and the Wild Horse Museum. Although most of the isolated villages that existed on the coastline have disappeared, the Historic Corolla Village remains intact, providing insight into the town’s past.
On your visit, walk the paths and visit the restored homes, including The Parker House, Gray-Lewark House, the Gard House, and A Village Garden.
Address: Corolla Village Road, Corolla, NC 27927, United States
23. Currituck Banks Research Reserve
The Currituck Banks Estuarine Research Reserve is an estuarine ecosystem featuring marshes, dunes, a maritime forest, beaches, grasslands, and tidal flats.
Sitting on 965 acres of ocean beach, the Currituck Baks Reserve borders the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.
The reserve, home to numerous birds and fish, is a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing.
24. OB-Xscape Rooms
Just a 35-minute drive from Corolla, NC, visiting the OB-Xscape Rooms is one of the fun things to do near Corolla today with friends and family.
The OB-Xscape Rooms provide an interactive and uniquely thrilling experience for families and friends to utilize teamwork & problem-solving skills in a fun & immersive environment.
The rooms are all set in different themes, with three choices, making it a fantastic experience. Some escape rooms on offer include the Cell Block 4 Death Row, Cold Case Murder of Dawn Renee, Raptor Revenge, Rest In Peace Motel, Blind Tiger Speakeasy, Mutiny on the Lark, Meltdown, Escape the Lost Pyramid, Medusa: Beyond Medusa’s Gate, and Huxley Save the Future.
Address:Â 1 Ocean Blvd Suite 108-111, Southern Shores, NC 27949, United States
Plan Your Trip to Corolla, NC
Corolla, North Carolina, transcends the typical beach town image. With its rich tapestry of history, nature, and recreation, it promises a myriad of experiences.
Whether you seek the thrill of water sports, the tranquillity of nature, the taste of coastal cuisine, or simply a place to unwind, Corolla has it all. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey to Corlla, and let the beauty of the Outer Banks envelop you in a world of relaxation and adventure.
