The Upper Outer Banks of North Carolina consists of the towns of Carova, Corolla, Duck and Southern Shores. This northernmost 34.2 mile (55 km) stretch of the Outer Banks is one of the most popular vacation destinations along the eastern seaboard. Corolla and Duck combined see their summer visitors grow 50 times compared to their year-round population. While the main attraction will always be the beaches, there are plenty of other activities that can keep one entertained throughout the entire year. One of the true joys of the Upper Outer Banks is the beach driving. As the NC Highway 12 surface road ends where Corolla Beach begins you can continue northward but only by driving on the beach and only with a town permit. This is the best route to see the wild mustangs and the only way to get to the Virginia state line through Carova.
Corolla and Duck is where most vacationers pitch their summer tents but some of the best, and much less crowded, beaches can be found in Carova and Southern Shores. Most of the best shopping and dining in the Upper Outer Banks are found in Corolla and Duck along with a full array of outdoor activities. When organizing our recommendations for this article we decided to focus on the different activities available and then specify the town. This way you can chose what you enjoy doing first then figure out how to navigate your activities. Everything is pretty close to each other in the Upper Outer Banks so you’re never too far away from your next discovery.
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Beaches
Carova Beach
Carova
Carova is often forgotten when one thinks of the Upper Outer Banks. It is the conduit between the better known Corolla and Virginia’s southern border. It is the quintessential “bedroom” community that not only has no commercial presence but also no paved roads. All traffic is on sand, including the beach. What this means is 11 miles of pristine beaches that are always clean and never crowded. There’s also a good chance of sighting one of the wild mustangs that wander freely in Carova.
Currituck Beach
Corolla
Corolla is a bit more visitor friendly than the other Upper Outer Bank towns when it comes to beach access. The most popular is Currituck Beach in large part because of the spacious free parking available but it is almost always crowded during peak times. In total there are (15) different access ways most with wooden walkways and many with some sort of parking and lifeguards. Because of the relative ease of access the Corolla beaches tend to be more crowded.
Duck Beaches
Duck
Duck does not have any public access beaches. You need to either be a town resident, a renter or a guest. If you are lucky enough to be staying in Duck this means you don’t have to bother with any of the issues that public beaches can sometimes have like trash, over-crowding, lack of privacy, etc. There are (7) street access points plus (2) that are in private gated communities. All (7) miles (11.3 km) of Duck’s beaches have lifeguards on duty.
Southern Shores Beaches
Southern Shores
Southern Shores beaches are, like neighboring Duck, only accessible if you are staying there. A big difference is (2) large parking areas (Hillcrest Drive and Chicahauk Trail) that can make it more convenient to access if you aren’t staying near the beach. There are also (3) other access points and all Southern Shores beaches have at minimum lifeguarded patrols.
Lighthouses
Currituck Beach Lighthouse
Corolla
The Currituck Beach Lighthouse is the only lighthouse along the Upper Outer Banks. It is also the only lighthouse on the Outer Banks that has no black or white color scheme. Built in 1875, the 162’ (49.4 m) tall structure was designed with an estimated 1 million red bricks and its light can be seen for 18 nautical miles (1.85 km) and is still useful for passing vessels. The 220 step climb to the top is well worth the journey to not only enjoy the wrought iron work on the stairs but the magnificent 360° view at the top.
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Parks
Historic Corolla Park
Corolla
The park in Corolla is really more of an historic center than traditional park. The 39 acre (15.8 ha) park is located on the soundside and features (4) different walking trails, multiple non-motorized water-sports launch points, fishing and crabbing. The park also offers three distinctive attractions that make it more than just a casual park. There is the Whalehead, a 1920s era architectural marvel and museum, the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education with numerous exhibits and programs and the magnificent Currituck Beach Lighthouse.
Duck Town Park
Duck
The Duck Town Park is located on the Currituck Sound and is best known for its magnificent Boardwalk. The 11 acre (4.45 ha) park has much to offer for everyone whether you’re in a relaxing or active mood. There is open green space for lounging in one of (21) benches, a gazebo, a picnic shelter, an amphitheater for seasonal shows and even a playground for the kids. There are numerous walking trails throughout the park that wind through maritime forest and willow swamp, public kayak and canoe launches and (2) public boat slips. Pets are welcome so long as they stay leashed and there is even a special water fountain for dogs.
Boardwalks
Duck Town Boardwalk
Duck
The Duck Town Boardwalk is located soundside and accessed from the Duck Town Park as well as several other locations along Duck’s commercial district. The boardwalk is approximately .78 miles (1.26 km) and takes about 15 minutes to walk but much longer if you choose to stop and ponder the beauty of the Currituck Sound. You can access various public slips from the boardwalk including boats, kayaks and canoes. As a trivial note the boardwalk is 10’ (3 m) wide, contains 12,547 pickets, 247 lights and is held up by approximately 752 pilings each buried 8’ (2.4 m) deep.
Nature & Wildlife
Currituck National Wildlife Refuge
Carova
One of the more interesting aspects of Carova is the fact that it is primarily a collection of maritime forests, sand dunes, and shrub thickets that are entirely open to visit and explore. The Currituck National Wildlife Refuge covers a whopping 4,570 acres (1,849 ha) and is comprised of 418 acres of beaches, 778 acres of wooded forests, 874 areas of brush and 2,033 acres of wetlands or marshes. Expect to find wildlife such as wild mustangs, loggerhead turtles and southern leopard spotted frogs along with plant life like loblolly pines, cattails, black neddlerush and wax myrtle.
Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve
Corolla
If you’ve spent any time on the Upper Outer Banks you’ll notice a significant amount of undeveloped land. One such stretch can be found in northern Corolla near Carova Beach. The Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve covers 965 acres (391 ha) of natural maritime habitat and was highlighted by the Boston Globe as one the east coast’s most beautiful nature preserves. Here you’ll find some of the best birding, fishing, hunting and photo opportunities in the entire Upper Outer Banks.
Audubon Pine Island Sanctuary and Center
Corolla
The Pine Island Sanctuary and Center is dedicated to preserving its 2,600 acres (1,052 ha) in its pristine natural form while also allowing visitors to enjoy the sanctuary and learn more about the habitat. It’s an ideal day trip for the family filled with education, an appreciation of nature and tons of potential activities including guided walking and/or kayak tours. Pine Island is filled with a wide variety of birds including Great Egrets, Osprey, Common Terns and Greater Scaup.
Hiking
Though strictly speaking, walking along the beach isn’t typically classified as “hiking” it can be just as rigorous and challenging especially if you walk on the softer sand away from the water. Obviously, you have your pick of beaches along the Upper Outer Banks to choose from and plenty of time to explore.
Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve
Corolla
The Currituck Banks Coastal Estuarine Reserve has two wooden boardwalk trails and a more rustic 1.5 mile (2.41 km) trail to choose from. Pets are allowed on the boardwalk trail but not on the longer trail. One of the reasons for this is the possibility of running into one of the many feral horses living in the thickets. Please keep your distance from them but certainly take your fill of pictures.
Audubon Sanctuary Nature Trail
Corolla
Hiding behind the Pine Island Racquet and Fitness Club, in the Donal C. O’Brien, Jr. Sanctuary and Audubon Center, is a 3 mile (4.8 km) path filled with wildlife, birds, maritime forests and Currituck Sound marshes. On an interesting note, a great time to visit is the winter as the coastal temperatures are reasonable, fewer people are about and the swallows and owls are plentiful to see along the trail.
Museums
Corolla Wild Horse Fund
Corolla
If you’re planning a guided tour to see Corolla’s wild horses we highly recommend the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. Their staff is knowledgeable and they are the overseers of the horses health and well-being. Their storefront also serves as a museum and gift shop. The museum includes a huge map that shows all of the areas the horses have been spotted, hands-on exhibits for kids and video displays. The museum is free and the entire operation is non-profit.
Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education
Corolla
Part of the Historic Corolla Park, the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education is a 22,000 ft² (2,044 m²) tribute to the wildlife in North Carolina. Featuring an 8,000 gallon (30,283 L) aquarium filled with native fish the museum focuses on the region’s long history as a sportsman’s paradise with a large selection of waterfowl paraphernalia (including a vintage duck blind recreation) and an impressive display of vintage outboard motors. Don’t miss the “Life By Waters Rhythms” short film, which runs on intervals throughout the day.
The Whalehead
Corolla
If you enjoy Americana nostalgia then a trip to the Whalehead located in the Historic Corolla Heritage Park should be on your agenda. This meticulous replica of a 21,000 ft² (1,951 m²) 1920’s summer retreat of industrialist and conservationist, Edward C. Knight, Jr. is a marvel of nature-inspired Art Nouveau architecture, historic portraits and other works of art. The home, easily the largest ever to inhabit the Upper Outer Banks, sits on 39 acres (15.8 ha) of beautifully landscaped land. If you get a chance don’t miss the after-hours ghost tours and programs.
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Hotels
Many visitors to the Upper Outer Banks will opt to rent a home for a week but if you’re only planning a stay of a few days it might make more sense to stay at a hotel, especially if they are right on the ocean. Here are the two best hotels that we’d recommend, one budget, the other more luxurious.
Hampton Inn
Corolla
We have a special affinity for the Hampton Inn. Always well situated, affordable, clean, courteous staff, free wi-fi and free breakfast. The Hampton Inn & Suites Outer Banks/ Corolla fits the bill nicely. It also has great views of the ocean and surrounding sand dunes, a small balcony facing the water, indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center and convenient beach access.
Sanderling Resort
Duck
Generally considered to be the gem of the Upper Outer Banks, the Sanderling Resort is a 4-star hotel with views of the water from virtually every room with the Currituck Sound to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The Sanderling is resort lodging so you can expect a bit more of everything from an onsite beauty spa, complete with body treatments and hot stone massage and hairdresser to hotel bar and restaurant. There is an indoor pool and hot tub, a kids pool, an outdoor pool and direct access to the beach. Not cheap but worth every penny.
Shopping
TimBuck II
Corolla
TimBuck II features over 60 “exciting shops” including retail shops, art galleries and restaurants all in one convenient location. Your dining options range from Italian and Mexican to fudge and home-baked goods. Local favorites are The Cotton Gin, Bubbie’s Burgers, North Banks Restaurant and Raw Bar. There is also a village around the back with bumper cars, watersports and mini-golf. Unlike many options on the Upper Outer Banks, TimBuck II is open all year around.
Monterey Plaza Shopping Center
Corolla
Catty-corner from TimBuck II is the Monterey Plaza Shopping Center boasting more than 25 shops and businesses. There is a nice range of culinary choices ranging from a full-sized Food Lion, a Dunkin’ Donuts, a Crafty Cow Burgers, a Super Wings and an Outer Banks Coffee. It is also home to a Kitty Hawk Kites, a Birthday Suits and an Ocean Drive Beachwear.
The Waterfront Shops
Duck
Duck’s Waterfront Shops is worth a visit just for the ambiance and location. The shops are the last northern point of the Duck Town Boardwalk running along the soundside of downtown Duck. With (18) unique boutiques on one side and the Currituck Sound on the other you may find yourself here for hours. At the center of the plaza is a pond, split by a wooden walkway, complete with waterspouts, ospreys, egrets, turtles and fish.
Scarborough Shopping
Duck
Just south of the Duck Town Park are a pair of shopping areas, the Scarborough Faire Shopping Village and the Scarborough Lane Shoppes, that each offer unique and eclectic experiences. The Scarborough Faire Shopping Village is fun, colorful and lively, set among a forest with second level wooden walkways connecting six buildings. At this oldest of Duck’s shopping centers you’ll find a bookstore, frozen yogurt, an art gallery and several restaurants. The Scarborough Lane Shoppes are a series of connected two-story buildings that’s accessible from either Duck Rd. or Scarborough Lane. It features a variety of shopping options including The Christmas Mouse, The Spice & Tea Exchange, The Fudgery (a personal favorite), Duck Pizza and Flip Flop Shoppes.
Restaurants
Outer Banks Boil Company
Corolla
The Outer Banks Boil Company sits along the southern edge of the TimBuck II shopping center. It has been ranked the #1 restaurant in all of Coastal Carolina and for good reason. It is an utterly unique experience that follows a family beach tradition of steaming up a huge pot of andouille sausage, fresh corn, potatoes and shrimp, then dumping it on a covered table where everyone jumps in. They also cater events which is ideal if you’re renting a beach home with multiple families or friends.
Urban Kitchen
Corolla
The #2 rated restaurant in Corolla is the Urban Kitchen. Featuring exclusively local ingredients or farm-to-table they have a flexible menu based on what is available from local farmers and fisherman. The location is small, first-come-first-served so they don’t take reservations. Some of the combinations are sausage with seafood and foie gras served with apples, crispy catfish served with cabbage, cucumber, peanuts, nuoc cham and comeback sauce or pork chops with apples, sweet potatoes, parsnip, carrots and honey. It is as unique and delicious as it sounds!
The Paper Canoe
Duck
For more upscale, gourmet cuisine, dining the Paper Canoe in Duck is your best option in the Upper Outer Banks. Situated a short walk from the Sanderling, the Paper Canoe faces the Currituck Sound and the nightly sunset over the water. The menu is filled with exotic fresh seafood prepared with “unexpected pairings of flavors” that combines southern styles with unique ethnic twists. This includes “Chef’s Whims” like shrimp and scallop sausage with truffle Israeli couscous or center cut bacon-wrapped filet served with potatoes, a cognac cream sauce and grilled asparagus . . . delicioso!
Coastal Cravings
Duck
The Cravings Steaks & Seafood is located next to a gas station in a spot that used to be home to a Burger King . . . are you hungry yet? The idea was to create great beach food that could be prepared quickly that evolved into a favorite local eatery. Located across NC 12 from the Duck Town Park, Cravings is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and features amazing hush puppies, shrimp and grits, a great crab fettuccine alfredo, saffron mussels, surf & turf, a surprisingly wide array of salads and beer battered spuds.
Steamers
Southern Shores
The Southern Shores is best known for its seclusion and beaches but they also have some excellent dining options, the best of which is Steamers. Featuring some of the best steamed, grilled, and fresh fried seafood, Steamers also has an excellent pulled pork BBQ, a vegetarian black bean soup, and New York style cheesecake. They are perhaps best known for their fish tacos and lobster rolls but they also have excellent filet mignon, crab cakes and even burgers. The atmosphere is open and modern yet retains a fun beach quality.
This is the first of (3) articles that will explore the unforgettable Outer Banks. We’ll also explore the Middle Outer Banks (Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, Manteo) and the Lower Outer Banks (Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, Hatteras, Ocracoke) in more detail.
If you’ve never been then you’ll definitely want to add it to your bucket list. If you have we’d love to hear about your favorite town and activities (even if it’s just the beach!)
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We have visited parts of North Carolina but not the Outer Banks yet. We would enjoy the hikes that you mentioned.
The maritime forests are quite unique and well worth the visit alone.
I had no idea there was so much to do in the Outer Banks! A visit looks like so much fun!
And this article is just about the Upper Outer Banks. There is so much more that we’ll explore in future articles!
While I have been to many places on the east coast I have never been to either North or South Carolina. I have them on my bucket list.
It’s definitely worth the trip. The entire state is filled with fun and interesting things to see and do.
Great article! I used to live across the NC border and work in Duck and Corolla on the weekends, so I’ve been able to enjoy a lot of these places over the years. I loved your highlights and definitely learned about a few places I’ll have to visit next time I’m down that way!
Nice . . . it would be interesting for you to see how much, or how little, it has changed from your perspective when next you visit.
Wow! What a great destination guide! I’ll definitely be bookmarking this, so I can find it again when we are able to travel to North Carolina. Thank you!
Thanks for the nice comment. It’s easy to be inspired in North Carolina!
I love North Carolina! Definitely one of my favorite places, although I’ve never been to the Upper Outer Banks. I also had no idea about the wild mustangs in the area- I would love to see those!
The mustangs are very much a part of the local community. They roam all over the place from the beach to peoples back yards. Very unique experience!
I’d love to visit North Carolina, it looks so beautiful there. It looks like a vacation spot that you’d see in films! It’s so interesting how it looks similar in some ways to the UK but then the buildings are completely different!
Thank you for the feedback. It’s one of the things we love about travelling . . . what is mundane to locals is fascinating to us. And vice versa as well. North Carolina is the best of many worlds.