If you are looking for the best things to do in Corolla with kids, we’ve got you covered! Corolla is a town in the northern part of the Outer Banks. The area is famous for its natural beauty and history. You are sure to fall in love with the landscape and atmosphere of this gorgeous Outer Banks town.

First, let’s answer some of your most commonly asked questions about Corolla.

Is There Anything To Do In Corolla?

Yes, of course! There is something for everyone in Corolla. You can see wild horses, go kayaking, see the Currituck Lighthouse, visit museums, eat good food, and more!

Can You See Wild Horses In Corolla Without A Tour?

Yes, you can see wild horses without a tour. If you have a 4×4 vehicle you can get a permit to drive on the beaches for yourself.

What Are The Best Outdoor Activities In Corolla?

In this article, we are going to dive into the best outdoor activities in Corolla. You can do everything from kayaking and wild horse-watching to skydiving and wild horse safaris. 

Best Things To In Corolla With Kids

Rent a golf cart and drive it around the town

Renting a golf cart is a fun way to get around the town of Corolla. There are several companies that you can rent from. Ocean Atlantic Rentals and OBX Beach Toy Rentals are reputable services. 

Grab a bagel from Lighthouse Bagels

If you have been looking for good breakfast restaurants in Corolla, Lighthouse Bagels has you covered. You can get cinnamon rolls, muffins, bagels, sandwiches, and more

Go skydiving at Skydive OBX

When it comes to beautiful destinations to skydive over, it doesn’t get much better than the Outer Banks. If you are looking for adventurous things to do in Corolla, you will want to check out Skydive OBX.

Shop at the Ocean Drive Beachwear

Ocean Drive Beachwear isn’t just for bathing suits. When you’re looking for a souvenir to take home with you, swing by the shop to see if they have anything that tickles your fancy. 

See the Currituck Lighthouse

One of the best things to do in Corolla with kids is to visit the Currituck Lighthouse. It is a tall red brick lighthouse that is in contrast to the mostly white and black lighthouses found in North Carolina. The lighthouse was constructed in 1873 and within walking distance from other Corolla attractions.

Take a kayak tour around Corolla

A great way to experience Corolla is from the water. A kayak tour gives you a unique perspective of the town and allows you to get up close and personal with the natural beauty in the area. Coastal Explorations is a reliable service to go through in Corolla.

Visit Life on a Sandbar

Taking a trip to Life On A Sandbar is one of the coolest things to do in Corolla with kids. Your little ones can get colorful braids, hair wraps, and henna tattoos at the shop. They have other kid-friendly activities available as well. 

Eat lunch outside at the Corolla Cantina (our fave!)

The Corolla Cantina is one of the very best restaurants in Corolla. They serve up Baja-style cuisine, but of course, they have burgers and fries as well. They have the most amazing loaded nachos and quesadillas that kids will love. 

Be adventurous and try parasailing

You have several companies to choose from if you want to go parasailing. Lighthouse Parasail is one of the most popular options. If you’re up for something new, parasailing is one of the most exciting things to do in Corolla with kids!

Go Stand Up Paddleboarding

If kayaking isn’t your thing, you can try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. You can head out onto the calmer waters of the sound instead of the ocean where you can feel more secure. 

Take a sunset cruise off of the Corolla coast

If you’ve been looking for things to do in Corolla with kids in the evening, a sunset cruise should be at the top of your list! There are various tour options available, including a sunset dolphin cruise!

Buy a souvenir from Farmers Daughter Gifts

Farmer’s Daughter Gifts has everything you could need for the beach and souvenirs. They have swimwear, shirts, sweaters, notebooks, tumblers, and more. 

Rainy day? Go to Corolla Movie & Bistro

Update: Permanently Closed

Try Corolla style corn chowder at Mama Easley’s

When it comes to restaurants in Corolla, Mama Easley’s should make its way onto your radar. They serve up southern American deliciousness like shrimp baskets, burgers, scallops, poboys, corn chowder, and wings. 

Visit the Whalehead Club

One of the most iconic attractions in Corolla is the historic Whalehead Club. The home sits on 39 acres of coastal land and was built in the 1920s art nouveau style. Tours of the historic home are free for children under 8 and $10 for adults. 

Corolla Watersports

If you plan on participating in multiple water activities during your time in Corolla, you are going to want to head to Corolla Water Sports as they have just about anything you could imagine when it comes to spending time out on the water. 

Grab breakfast from Duck Donuts

Duck Donuts is an iconic North Carolina shop. You can get unique donuts like blueberry lemonade, maple bacon, beach ball, and more. They also have coffee, shakes, smoothing, and more as well. 

Get you night time necessities from Corolla Wine & Cigar

If you manage to find some time away from the kids at night, Corolla Wine & Cigar has you covered. 

Rent a kayak and paddle at your own pace

Don’t want to be held back by a guide and other kayakers? Rent your own kayak and paddle at your own pace! You can enjoy the serenity that is Corolla on your own terms. 

Join a Chartered Fishing trip

There is some excellent fishing off of the coast of the Outer Banks. You can charter a fishing boat in Corolla for a couple of hours, half-day, or a whole day of fishing.

Fuel your body with a smoothie from Island Smoothie

If you like to try to stay healthy when traveling, a stop by Island Smoothie may be just what you need. It’s also a great way to cool down after hours spent in the hot summer sun.

Taste delicious seafood from the Bluewater Seafood Market

If you want to try your own cooking skills while in corolla, head to the Bluewater Seafood Market to pick up some fresh seafood and choose from a selection of locally-made sauces and condiments. 

Take a wild horse tour

Seeing wild horses is one of the best things to do in corolla OBX. Taking a wild horse tour is the best way to ensure that you get to see the horses during your visit. Riding alongside the crashing waves on the beach and seeing wild horses frolic in the sand is a really unique experience you aren’t going to want to miss.

Join a Backcountry Safari

Backcountry Safaris are a little more exciting than any ole wild horse tour. When you book a backcountry safari you gain access to the wild horse preserve and a naturalist on your tour. If you want to see parts of Corolla that not everyone can see, take a backcountry safari!

Collect seashells on Corolla’s beautiful beaches

Nothing compares to the wide sandy beaches and blue waters at Corolla Beach. If you’re lucky, you may get to see wild mustangs wandering down the beach. 

Enjoy some Putt Putt golfing at Pirates Island

When looking for things to do in Corolla with kids, a round of mini-golf at Pirates Island is just what you need. Mini-golf is the quintessential southeastern U.S. vacation activity. Try your hand at the game at this pirate-themed course!

Visit Salt Coast Outfitters

In the Timbuck II Shopping Village in Corolla, you will find Salt Coast Outfitters. If you like to shop when you travel, you should check out this shop when you’re in the area. 

Have dinner at Fat Crabs Rib Company & Seafood Shack

Fatcrabs Rib Company & Seafood Shack is a fantastic restaurant in Corolla. They have barbecue platters, steamer pots, and they offer take-out. So, if you find yourself wanting to grab some yummy seafood to take back to your hotel for the night, keep Fatcrabs in mind. 

Go to the Bonito Street Public Beach

Bonito Beach is an expensive and inviting beach. They have lifeguards on duty at certain times in the year but keep in mind that parking is limited. 

Visit the Corolla Wild Horse Museum

The Corolla Wild Horse Museum is one of the best things to do in Corolla with kids when it rains. The museum was set up by the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. The museum aims to educate and preserve the remaining wild horses in the Outer Banks. 

Have fun at the Corolla Raceway

The Corolla Raceway is one of the best things to do in Corolla with kids. Although some kids may enjoy being walking around town and being in nature all day, not all will. Corolla Raceway is a great way to add a little family fun to your time spent in this beautiful OBX town. 

Go hiking in the Currituck Banks Reserve

For outdoorsy travelers, visiting the Currituck Banks Reserve is one of the best free things to do in Corolla with kids. The reserve expands for about seventy miles and is located in the northernmost part of the town. There are boardwalks and trails that you can take in the reserve that showcase the coastal wetlands and natural beauty of the area. 

Eat delicious food overlooking the water at The Oceanfront Grille

The Oceanfront Grille is one of the most popular restaurants in Corolla because it has amazing view views. You can sit poolside or overlooking the sand dunes and water on the covered deck where you can still feel the salty ocean air blowing through your hair. If you want a delicious and relaxing experience eating out in Corolla, the Oceanfront Grille is a must!

Go kiteboarding

Kiteboarding in the Outerbanks is excellent. At Corolla Kiteboarding you can learn how to kiteboarding for yourself. You can take intro lessons or level 1 lessons if you are more advanced. Prices vary depending on how many people are in your group and whether it’s a private or semi-private lesson.

Buy beach home decor from The Cottage Shop

You can find Outer Banks-themed and general beach-themed home decor at this Corolla gift shop. In fact, you can find everything from jewelry, throw pillows, signs, locally made soaps and lotions, beachy Christmas decor, picture frames, and everything in between.

Take surf lessons

The Corolla Surf School has been around for twenty-five years and taught more than 22,000 lessons since they were established. The school has different levels of lessons based on your experience level and whether or not you want a private lesson. 

Dig into shrimp tacos at Sundogs Raw Bar & Grill

Sundogs Raw Bar and Grill has live music, karaoke, sports on TVs, and a generally upbeat and lively environment. If you are looking for a fun night eating good seafood and laughing the night away, you’ll love Sundogs!

Visit the Corolla Surf Shop

Water-centered activities are obviously popular in Corolla. The surf shop has equipment rentals such as body boards and wet suits on hand. If you plan on going out to the water, be sure to check out their website for their day surf reports.

Take a tour with Corolla Outback Adventures

Sometimes, the best way to see a new destination is to take a sightseeing tour with an experienced guide. Outback Adventures takes you on an adventure and allows you to see some wild horses in the process. If you’ve been asking, “how do you see wild horses in Corolla?” A tour with Outback Adventures is another way to see them!

Walk through the Corolla Surfing Museum

Swing by the Corolla Surfing Museum to learn about the history of surfing in Corolla and throughout the Outer Banks.

Visit the Shad Street Public Beach

Shad Street Beach Access has a free parking lot. Remember not to drive through the sand as people try to do every year. You will get stuck.

Drive your own 4×4 vehicle onto the beach where the NC 12 road ends & turns to beach

Driving on the beach is one of the coolest things to do in Corolla! Just be sure to get a permit so you can drive on the beaches legally and then you can have the time of your life!

Don’t have a 4×4, rent a jeep from Corolla Jeep Adventures

If you don’t have a vehicle that can make it through the sand, you can rent one! You don’t have to miss out on the fun, just head to Corolla Jeep Adventures, they will get your permit sorted and you can be on your way.

Look for wild horses in the Currituck Banks Reserve

If you already enjoying the hiking trails in the area, be sure to keep a lookout for wild horses in the area. They may be where you least expect them. 

Go skim boarding

If surfing isn’t your thing, you can still have fun on the beach. Head out to the beach and try your hand at skimboarding on Corolla beach.

Buy a souvenir from Corolla’s Super Wings

If you find that you forgot a beach essential when packing for your trip to the Outer Banks, there’s nothing to worry about. Just head to Super Wings and they will have everything you need. Plus cool souvenirs too. 

Get a taste of Italy at La Dolce Vita

This classic Italian restaurant in Corolla will blow you away. Homemade Italian food in a dreamy beach setting? Yes, please!

Visit Currituck Beach

If you are looking for a family-friendly beach in Corolla, be sure to check out Currituck Beach. There are fewer crowds, wide sandy beaches, and the wild horses roam free!

Join a yoga session at Soulshine Yoga

Just a couple of minutes from the historic Whalehead Club is Soulshine Yoga. If you want to add to the relaxing nature of the Outer Banks, head to Soulshine Yoga for a session. 

Visit Historic Corolla Park

There’s a lot of great open space and places to walk around in the park, as well as great views and picnic spots. If the noise of wind from the ocean gets too much, this park is a great place to be by the water in the sunshine. 

Buy souvenirs from Currituck Beach Lighthouse Museum Shop

For travelers who like to grab a memento from everywhere they go, you’ll want to stop by the lighthouse museum shop.

Rent a bike to ride around town

There’s nothing like biking by the coast! Head to Ocean Atlantic Rentals or Just For The Beach Rentals to rent a bike for the day. 

Grab lunch from Low Tide Bar & Grill

The Low Tide Bar and Grill is one of the best restaurants in Corolla! You can eat delicious key lime pie, prime rib, and shrimp alfredo with zucchini noodles.

Visit Albacore Public Beach

The Albacore Beach Access has loads of space for everyone to spread out and have their own space on the beach.

Rent a jet Ski or Wave Runner

Surfing and SUPing aren’t for everyone. If you’re still dying to get out on the water, try a jet ski!

Go to Mrs. Kitty’s Olde Time Photos & Gifts

Create a souvenir that tells a story at Mrs. Kitty’s Olde Time Photos & Gifts. Dress up from a different time period and have a fun time taking pictures at this Corolla attraction!

Visit Kitty Hawk Kites in the Timbuck II shopping center

Despite the name, Kitty Hawk Kites locations can be found all throughout the Outer Banks. For travelers who love to shop in a new destination, you will like Kitty Hawk Kites.

Rent a pontoon

For a more relaxed and shady time spent on the water, you should consider renting a pontoon while in Corolla.

Visit Corolla Beach

The soft sandy beach at Corolla Beach is amazing. Perfect for families or any type of traveler looking to relax in the OBX sun.

Have fun at Corolla Adventure Golf & Bumper Cars

One of the best things to do in Corolla with kids is to visit Adventure Golf & Bumper Cars. This fun outdoor miniature golf course and bumpers cars are sure to bring a lot of laughs and good times for your family. It’s also one of the best things to do in Corolla at night. When the sun goes down you can still have fun at this OBX attraction. 

Hungry for Mexican food, try Agave Roja

When it comes to Mexican restaurants in Corolla, Agave Roja should be at the top of your list! Sip on margaritas and eat delicious tacos because what’s better than tacos on the coast?

Shop at The Cotton Gin

The Cotton Gin is a great place to shop in the OBX. They have home decor, souvenirs, clothes, and general home goods for sale in a unique and cozy shop.

Taste delicious ice creams from The Chill Spot

As the name suggests, The Chill Spot is a really chill shop where you can get cold treats on a hot summer’s day. Or you can swing by in the morning and grab some coffee before you start your day.

Rent a paddleboat

For those who aren’t too sure about getting out on the water in the ocean, you can take a paddleboat out on calm waters instead. Paddleboat rentals are one of the most fun things to do with kids in Corolla!

Grab a slice from Corolla Pizza & Deli

Corolla Pizza and Deli is a small roadside restaurant. They have subs, cheesesteaks, and pizza. (Great for take-out after a full day in town!)

Enjoy some Surf n’ Turf from Mike Dianna’s Grill Room

Classic surf n’ turf entrees are available in a large outdoor space with live music at this Corolla restaurant. You can also enjoy a full bar while you’re there. 

If you have any questions about the area, leave them in the comments below!
Happy Traveling!

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