Currituck and the Corolla Wild Horses

Go back to a time when life’s pace was slower and quieter—when the air was fresher and the faces friendlier. Visit Currituck, a coastal community that remains a perfect example of the northern Outer Banks’ enduring natural beauty.

The area is known for its quiet beauty and warm hospitality. There is a real sense of community here, where peaceful avenues and historic sites lead to the Atlantic’s edge. With the recent addition of the Wild Horse Inn in Corolla and the Buffalo City Distillery in Point Harbor, the local atmosphere is more welcoming than ever.

Currituck sits at the northeastern tip of North Carolina and includes both the mainland and the Corolla beach area. Long a haven for those seeking the road less traveled, the region remains a sanctuary for both people and wildlife. Modern visitors particularly enjoy Historic Corolla Park, a 39-acre site that serves as the heart of the community.

The area’s rich history is on full display at Whalehead in Historic Corolla, a signature attraction since its 2002 renovation. Nearby, the Currituck Maritime Museum showcases historic boats and artifacts that tell the stories of local residents who have lived and worked on the region’s waterways.

Shopping in the Corolla area remains an adventure, with unique destinations such as the Timbuck II Shopping Village and Historic Corolla Village. While you won’t find traditional large malls, you will discover a variety of distinctive shops, including Wild Goose Wine Bar, which offers tastings of up to forty different wines.

The most significant landmark in Corolla is the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Built in 1875, it stands 162 feet tall and remains an active navigational aid. Visitors can climb the 220 steps to the top for a sweeping view of the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

Where the paved road ends in Corolla, the adventure truly begins. The secluded beaches of Carova are accessible only by 4×4 vehicles and are home to the legendary Corolla wild horses. These descendants of Spanish Mustangs are the region’s most treasured residents. If you don’t have a 4×4 vehicle, you can take a guided tour with companies like Corolla Outback Adventures or Back Beach Wild Horse Tours to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat.

2026 Visitor’s Quick Guide: Currituck & Corolla

• Currituck Beach Lighthouse: 1101 Corolla Village Road. Open 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily (mid-March through Nov). $13 to climb; must be at least 4 years old.
• Corolla Wild Horse Fund Museum: 1130E Corolla Village Road. Stop by to learn about the herd’s Spanish ancestry and pick up your 2026 Wild Horse Calendar.
• Historic Corolla Park: Home to the Whalehead mansion and the Currituck Maritime Museum. Perfect for a picnic under the live oaks.
• Wild Horse Tours: Guided 4×4 tours are highly recommended for the best (and safest) chance to see the horses. Remember: STAY 50 FEET AWAY at all times.
• H2OBX Waterpark: Located in Powells Point. A must-visit for families, featuring over 30 slides and a massive wave pool.
• Dining & Drinks:
  • Buffalo City Distillery: Tours and farm-to-bottle spirits in Point Harbor.
  • Wild Goose Wine Bar: Explore global vintages at Timbuck II.
  • Corolla Cantina: Local favorite for casual coastal dining.

Events

• Blackbeard’s Revenge 100: A 100-mile coastal race taking place March 21–22, 2026.
• Annual Under the Oaks Art Festival: Held on the grounds of the Whalehead Club on June 16–17, 2026.

Editor’s Notes & Corrections

• Article Focus: As requested, I have shifted the focus of your original article format from Southport to the Currituck/Corolla area while maintaining your tone and structure.
• Phone Numbers: The Corolla Wild Horse Fund museum and gift shop can be reached at (252) 453-8002. For reporting horse-related issues after hours, call Currituck County Dispatch at (252) 453-3633.
• Lighthouse Details: The Currituck Beach Lighthouse climbing fee is now $13 for ages 4 and older. It is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from mid-March through late November.
• New Attractions: I have integrated the Currituck Maritime Museum, H2OBX Waterpark, and the Wild Horse Inn to reflect the modern visitor experience.
• Orton Plantation Note: Please note that Orton Plantation (mentioned in your previous article) remains a private residence and is not open to the public; I have replaced it with relevant Currituck landmarks.

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Wild Hearts, Coastal Souls 🌊🐎

Escape to where the pavement ends and the magic begins. Currituck and Corolla are calling you back to a simpler time in 2026!

Whether you’re climbing the 220 steps of the iconic Currituck Beach Lighthouse for a bird’s-eye view of the coast or watching the legendary Wild Spanish Mustangs play in the surf of Carova, there is an adventure waiting for everyone.

Mark Your 2026 Calendars: 🏴‍☠️ Blackbeard’s Revenge 100 (March 21-22) 🎨 Under the Oaks Art Festival (June 16-17) 🍔 Bulls & BBQ (November)

From the history of the Whalehead Club to the new Wild Goose Wine Bar, come discover why the Northern Outer Banks remain North Carolina’s most treasured escape.

Plan your getaway today! #CorollaWildHorses #VisitCurrituck #OuterBanks2026 #OBX #CurrituckLighthouse #WildMustangs #NCExplored