Planning a family beach trip means you have a lot to balance! You want somewhere relaxing, but not boring. Somewhere scenic, but still practical with kids. When checking out family beach destinations, don’t underestimate Corolla in the Outer Banks!
From wide beaches and wild horse tours to bike rides, seafood dinners, and spacious vacation homes, there’s so much to do in Corolla for families. If you’re looking for the perfect Corolla NC vacation, this guide covers the best activities, where to stay, and why Corolla Outer Banks rentals are perfect for the whole family.
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In This Blog:
- Where Is Corolla, NC?
- Best Things to Do in Corolla NC with Kids
- Top Corolla Vacation Rentals for Families
- Book Your Corolla Family Vacation with Carolina Shores
- FAQs About Visiting Corolla
Where is Corolla?
Corolla is located on the northern end of the Outer Banks. It’s known for quiet beaches, large vacation homes, natural dunes, and the famous Corolla wild horses. And most importantly, it’s also perfect for families!
Compared to busier beach towns farther south, Corolla has a calm atmosphere that works great for families with young kids. Plus, our vacation rental catalog in Corolla is perfect.
Already daydreaming about beach mornings and evening cookouts? We don’t blame you.
Check Out Our Corolla Vacation Rentals
Best Things to Do in Corolla with Kids
The beach itself is a huge draw, but there are plenty of other exciting things to do in Corolla with kids. Here are some of our favorites!
Visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse
Kids love visiting the Currituck Beach Lighthouse! It’s a great place to get fantastic ocean views if you’re up for the climb, plus it’s affordable ($13 per person to climb the lighthouse). Children must be at least 4 years old to climb!
For those who want to stay on the ground, there’s still plenty to see—plus, the museum and grounds are all free!
See the Wild Horses
Corolla’s wild horses are one of our most famous draws. These beautiful horses roam the northern beaches freely, and spotting them feels downright magical, whether it’s the first time you see them walking through the dunes or the hundredth. Try to spy them on your own, or consider taking a tour to get a full glimpse.
Explore Historic Corolla Park
The Currituck Lighthouse is just one of the attractions inside Historic Corolla Park. There’s so much to do here! Check out the Whalehead Club, a restored 1920s home that offers a glimpse into Corolla’s past, or just enjoy letting the kids run around on the lawn or on the playground. The whole park takes up 39 acres, so there’s ample room.
Climb + Play at Corolla Adventure Park
Your kids will love this day of fun, especially the zip lines and ropes courses for older kids. With 4 levels of sky adventure and 72 obstacles to play around on, they’ll be occupied all day long! It’s a great option for when you want to spend some time away from the beach.
Top Corolla Vacation Rentals for Families
Okay, now that you know the best things to do in Corolla with kids, it’s time to take a look at our extensive selection of rentals to make your stay even better. When you stay in a vacation rental, you don’t have to worry about the kids feeling cooped up in a hotel! And when you stay with Carolina Shores, you can rest assured you’re staying in the best vacation rentals on the Outer Banks. These are some of our favorites that we’ve selected for a family trip!
V1233- Easton's Beach
Spend time in the game room!
Amenities: Dog-Friendly, Private Pool, Private Hot Tub, Rec Room with Pool Table, Foosball Table, and Wet Bar!
WH868 - Star of the Sea
Have a family dinner in the dining room!
5-Bed, 4.5-Bath, Sleeps 12
Amenities: Hot Tub, Private Saltwater Pool, Playground, Swing Set, Basketball Hoop, Charcoal Grills
WH852- Mellow Yellow
Enjoy family time in the living room!
4-Bed, 3.5-Bath, Sleeps 8
Amenities: Private Pool, Hot Tub, Game Room with Pool Table, TV, Board Games, and Library
Book Your Family Vacation Directly with Carolina Shores Vacation Rentals
When you book your trip directly with us, you’ll save time, money, and stress! Take a look at our full catalog of Outer Banks vacation rentals to see what works best for you and your family, and then book directly with us!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Corolla
Is Corolla good for family vacations?
Yes. Corolla is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Outer Banks thanks to its quieter beaches, spacious vacation homes, and outdoor activities for all ages.
What are the best things to do in Corolla NC?
Popular activities include visiting the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, seeing the wild horses, spending time at the beach, kayaking, biking, fishing, and exploring Historic Corolla Park.
When is the best time to visit Corolla?
Summer is the most popular season for beach vacations, but spring and fall are excellent for smaller crowds, mild temperatures, and outdoor activities.
Are Corolla beaches crowded?
Compared to many East Coast beach towns, Corolla beaches are generally less crowded, especially in the northern areas.
Why should I book a Corolla vacation rental instead of a hotel?
Vacation rentals provide more space, private amenities, full kitchens, and better accommodations for families and large groups.
Do I need a four-wheel-drive vehicle in Corolla?
Not for most of Corolla. However, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is required if you plan to drive on the beaches in the northern 4x4 area where the wild horses roam.