Pack up the car and get ready for a day trip from Manteo to Corolla, a picturesque town in the Outer Banks! This city is known for its wild horses, stunning beaches, and rich history. This trip to Corolla takes about 1.5 hours and offers scenic views along the way.
With its close proximity and variety of things to do, a day trip to Corolla can be a fun and easy way to make the most of your OBX vacation. Follow along as we take you through some of the best activities that Corolla has to offer!
Discover more things to do, places to go, and sights to see in the Outer Banks in our complimentary Manteo Vacation Guide!
Wild Horse Adventure Tours
Hop into an open-air Hummer and get the chance to see wild horses in their natural habitat! Feel the ocean breeze of the Outer Banks as you and a guide set out to search for Colonial Spanish Mustangs across three environments, accessible only by off-road vehicle. Tours last two hours and serve up to 13 passengers, giving everyone in your party the chance to take on this adventure!
- Address: 610 Currituck Clubhouse Dr, Corolla, NC
- Prices: 2-hour tours start at $69
- Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9 AM – 6 PM
- More Information Here
Currituck Beach Lighthouse
First built in 1875, this lighthouse has kept sailors and fishermen in the area safe from danger and now serves as a tourist site, offering a look into Corolla’s local history, featuring on-site exhibits explaining the lighthouse’s significance. Once you’re there, you’ll also get the chance to climb the lighthouse, giving you a sweeping view of the Currituck Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, and the northern Outer Banks!
- Address: 610 Currituck Clubhouse Dr, Corolla, NC
- Prices: $13 to climb the lighthouse
- Hours: 9 AM – AM PM
- More Information Here
Historic Corolla Village
If you want to take an even further step back in time, the Historic Corolla Village may be for you! Walk down a series of unpaved sand roads under scrupulous pines as you’re surrounded by restored homes, small shops, and museums like the wild horse museum. This site also features Whalehead, a massive 1920s-era estate offering a glimpse of the area’s early architecture. Historic Corolla Village isn’t too far from other sites in Corolla, making it a convenient way to see what life in the Outer Banks was like in the past.
- Address: Corolla Village Rd. , Corolla, NC
- Prices: Free
- More Information Here
Corolla Beach
Known for wide stretches of sand, scenic dunes, and a quieter atmosphere than some of the busier beach towns in the area, Corolla Beach is a great spot for a day of sun in the sand. Visitors can spend the morning walking the shoreline, set up for an afternoon of swimming and sunbathing, or enjoy a laid-back evening by the water. With multiple public beach access points throughout Corolla, it’s an easy addition to any day trip to Corolla.
- Address: 1101 Corolla Village Road, Corolla, NC
- Prices: Free
- More Information Here
What your day trip to Corolla would look like
Morning Activities
As you pull into the town of Corolla, be sure to stop and enjoy a hearty breakfast at First Light. This local café serves up breakfast until 3 pm. Get the homemade biscuits and gravy and soak up the small-town charm.
When you’re all energized and happy, embark on a guided tour to see Corolla’s famous wild horses! Book a tour online in advance with Corolla Wild Horse Tours, and a professional will navigate the beach while you observe these majestic animals roaming freely along the beaches.
Afternoon Exploration
Seeing all those horses will work up an appetite, and before you know it, it’ll be time for lunch. Head over to the cheerful Uncle Ike’s Sandbar and Grill for their Hatteras Chowder and delicious crabcakes.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a drive on the beach! It’s one of the more unique activities in this area. Check out the website for local regulations and conditions for beach driving.
For a dose of history and breathtaking views, visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Discover more about the area’s origins at the Whalehead Club, a historic 1920s mansion.
More Time in Nature
To learn more about the animals native to Corolla, check out the Corolla Wildlife Education Center. Get the facts about the region’s diverse wildlife, including the wild horses, sea turtles, and migratory birds!
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