Spot the Wild Horses of Corolla
The iconic Colonial Spanish Mustangs roam freely in the 4×4 area—and spotting them never gets old. Watch from your rental’s deck or take a family-friendly wild horse tour with a local guide who’ll share fun facts and find the best photo ops. Pro tip: Teach kids to respect the wildlife—horses must be observed from at least 50 feet away.Drive (and Play!) on the Beach
Where else can you drive right up to the ocean and set up camp for the day? Pack your beach chairs, boogie boards, and a cooler full of snacks. The wide, quiet beaches in the 4×4 area are ideal for:- Sandcastle contests
- Surf lessons
- Kite flying
- Shell collecting
Paddle the Currituck Sound
The calm waters of the sound side are perfect for beginners. Rent kayaks or paddleboards for a fun and safe way to explore marshes and spot coastal wildlife. Keep an eye out for turtles, fish, and herons!Watch the Sunset
Head to the sound side in the evening for a picnic dinner and let the kids run wild while the sun sets in brilliant OBX color. It’s a quiet, peaceful moment that the whole family will remember.Go Crabbing or Fishing
Grab a simple crabbing kit and a net from a local shop and head to the sound. It’s an easy, hands-on activity kids love—and if you’re lucky, dinner might be freshly caught!Explore Corolla: Great Stops in Town for Kids
When you’re ready to come off the sand and explore, nearby Corolla has plenty of family-friendly activities:- Currituck Beach Lighthouse Climb to the top (220 steps!) for an amazing view and a little history lesson.
- Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education Free and interactive exhibits about local animals, ecosystems, and even duck decoys—great for curious kids.
- Historic Corolla Park Wide open green space to picnic, fly kites, or walk around Whalehead, a 1920s-era mansion by the sound.
- Corolla Adventure Park A multi-level ropes course for older kids and teens looking for a challenge—plus mini zip lines and a fun atmosphere.
- Corolla Raceway Go-karts for all ages (yes, even the adults will want a turn!).
- Ice Cream and Pizza Stops Don’t miss Lighthouse Pizza, Big Buck’s Ice Cream, or The Fudgery for sweet treats after a long beach day.
Craft and Chill on Rainy Days
If a storm rolls in, embrace the downtime with:- Seashell painting
- Puzzles or family board games
- OBX-themed kids’ books or coloring
- Movie night with popcorn and cozy beach house vibes
The 4×4 area of the Outer Banks is the kind of place where kids can unplug, explore, and run barefoot under the sun. Add in a few adventures in town, and you’ve got the perfect mix of wild nature and family fun. So load up the SUV, air down your tires, and make your way to the edge of the map—where some of the best family memories are made.
- March 25, 2025