Beach Hotels in Corolla, NC

Part of the Outer Banks, Corolla beach, North Carolina is a tucked away coastal community with an idyllic charm. Here, nature takes the stage as the main attraction. With miles of coastline, the beach is rife for a picnic, swimming or simply soaking in the rays with a good book when staying at beach hotels in Corolla.

When staying at a beach hotel in Corolla, be sure to venture 27 miles south and you’ll hit charming Nag’s Head. One of the oldest communities of the Outer Banks, the name "Nags Head" is believed to have originated from the legend of a pirate named Blackbeard who buried treasure on the island and told his crew that his headless ghost would haunt them if they did not return to retrieve it within three days. The crew fled for their lives, and none returned to claim the treasure. Driving on the beach is permitted from April to October, so on a clear night, feel free to have a beach bonfire (with a permit). And be sure to pack some s’mores!

Many Corolla Beach hotels are nearby the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, which gives a bird's eye view of the Outer Banks beaches. With 220 steps, it’s one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States. Having been fully restored to its original condition, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse was built in 1875 and was the last lighthouse built by the United States government. It is still an active aid to navigation and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975.

Afterwards, explore Currituck Beach. Ideal for those wanting some seclusion, this quiet beach community is known for its pristine white sand and many species of fish, including red drum and bluefish that attract anglers from all over the country. The Hatteras sound also provides excellent habitat for sea turtles, as well as shorebirds such as egrets and herons.

Amenities at Currituck Beach include a boat ramp, picnic areas with BBQ grills and restroom facilities available seasonally. There are also several miles of walking trails through woods populated by native plants like loblolly pine and cedar trees.

A little further south on Roanoke Sound is the Bodie Island lighthouse, which offers some sweeping views of Cape Hatteras and the Atlantic. Be sure to climb to the top; the view is worth it!

For equine lovers, Corolla Beach is home to the only wild horses on the East Coast! These Spanish Colonial mustangs made the Outer Banks their home well before it became a tourist destination. Corolla beach and nearby Carova became an unofficial horse refuge when an extension of paved road from Duck to Corolla was compromising their safety. They now roam freely along 7500 protected acres of coastline. Catch a glimpse of these permanent residents on a guided tour.

If you're traveling with kids, visit the Fun Spot Amusement Park in Nags Head for rides and games for all ages, and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum is great for an educational experience about the area's rich history.

Don’t forget to check out our beach hotels in Virginia Beach, Kitty Hawk, and Myrtle Beach.