Corolla & Carova Beach Driving

The 4WD beach north of Corolla — wild horse country. Here's what you need to know about permits, parking, and driving on one of the OBX's most unique stretches of sand.

Important: You Need a Parking Permit, Not a Driving Permit

Unlike the national seashores, Currituck County does not require an ORV driving permit. What you need is a beach parking permit. This applies to anyone parking on the 4WD beach north of the paved road end. If you're just driving through without stopping, you don't need a permit — but most visitors park and stay.

Parking Permit Details

Cost & Availability

  • Cost: $50 per week
  • Limit: 300 permits per week
  • Available: Starting April 1 each year
  • Per rental house: 2 permits allowed
  • Validity: 7 consecutive days

Where to Buy

Permits are sold at the Currituck County Visitors Center:

Currituck County Visitors Center

500 Hunt Club Dr

Corolla, NC 27927

Arrive early — permits sell out fast, especially in peak summer weeks. The 300-per-week limit means they can be gone by mid-morning on busy weekends.

Rental House Permits

Each rental house in the 4WD area is allotted 2 parking permits. If you're renting a property in Carova or the 4WD area, check with your property manager or rental company — permits may already be reserved for you. Don't double-buy. If your rental doesn't include a permit, you'll need to buy one at the Visitors Center.

Vehicle Requirements

There is no formal equipment checklist like the NPS seashores, but the Carova 4WD beach is some of the softest sand on the East Coast. Come prepared.

  • ✓ High-clearance 4WD vehicle (strongly recommended)
  • ✓ Tire pressure gauge (air down to 15–18 psi)
  • ✓ Shovel
  • ✓ Tow rope or strap
  • ✓ Jack and support board
  • ✓ Traction boards (highly recommended)
  • ✓ Full-size spare tire
  • ✓ Plenty of drinking water

AWD is Not 4WD

All-wheel-drive crossovers and SUVs are not recommended for the Carova 4WD beach. AWD systems lack the low-range gearing and true four-wheel lock needed for deep sand. Even experienced 4WD drivers get stuck here. If you have an AWD vehicle, consider taking a guided tour instead of self-driving.

Important Warnings

Wild Horses

The Corolla wild horses roam freely on the 4WD beach. Stay at least 50 feet away at all times — this is federal law. Do not feed, touch, or approach the horses. They are unpredictable and can be aggressive, especially stallions and mares with foals. Drive slowly and give them plenty of space.

Soft Sand

The sand on the Carova beach is some of the softest on the Outer Banks. Conditions worsen in summer when the sand dries out. Even with proper tire pressure, vehicles can sink to the axles. Carry traction boards and a shovel. If you're not experienced in sand driving, go with someone who is.

No Lifeguards

There are no lifeguards on the 4WD beach. Swim at your own risk. Rip currents are common and the beach is remote — emergency response can take significant time. If you're swimming, never go alone and keep children close. Cell service is spotty.

No Air-Down Station on the 4WD Beach

Unlike the NPS seashores, there is no free air-down station at the Corolla/Carova beach access. Bring your own tire pressure gauge and a portable air compressor to re-inflate before driving on pavement. The nearest gas station air is back in Corolla at the paved road.

← Back to ORV Permit Guide