Calling all horse lovers! If you want to do something different we recommend heading down to the Outer Banks to see the Corolla Outer Banks Wild Horses.
We know, it’s a long drive to get out there. But it is 100% worth it. The Outer Banks has so many wonderful things to see and do from the world-class (and quiet) beaches to Jockey’s Ridge and all the lighthouses.
For us, seeing the Corolla Outer Banks Wild Horses ranks right up there with all of those above mentioned OBX activities. It’s such an awe-inspiring experience to visit the wild horses in their natural habitat. To do this look no further than the shores of Carova Beach, located in the Outer Banks. Corolla NC horses (or Wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs) have lived in the Outer Banks for over 500 years, making them some of the oldest living residents of the area.
Historians speculate that the horses were left behind by Spanish explorer, Lucas Vasquez de Allyon in the 1500s. While another theory suggests that the horses made their way to shore after a cargo ship, led by English Commander Richard Greenville, encountered trouble and was lost to shallow waters on the outskirts of Portsmouth Island.
This has to be one of the coolest things we did in 2022. The beach is stunning and seeing the wild horses is truly a once in a lifetime experience. It’s also amazing driving on the sand!
Best time of the day to visit the Corolla Outer Banks Wild Horses
Wild Horse Tours offers tours all day, starting at 7am. We suggest visiting either early in the morning or right before sunset to get some amazing light for your photos.
Best time of the year to visit:
The summer season is the Outer Banks busiest, and for good reason. The weather is warm and beautiful, allowing for pristine beach days. If you plant to visit in the summer, make sure to book your horse tour well in advance as there will be a waiting list. The weather in Corolla in the Spring and Fall is pleasant as well giving you a great time to enjoy the beach activities and the Corolla NC horses.
Things to do while visiting to see the Corolla Outer Banks Wild Horses
- Wild Horse Tours
- Wild Horse Museum
- Carova Beach
- Corolla Village Barbecue
Things to visit while in the area
- Currituck Lighthouse
- Whalehead in Historic Corolla
- Currituck Banks Reserve
- Currituck Banks National Estuarine Research Reserve Access Trail
Where to stay when visiting the Corolla Outer Banks Wild Horses
- Sanderling Resort
- Inn at Corolla Light
- Corolla Village Inn
- Or an Outer Banks beachfront vacation rental along the beach.
Once you see the wild horses, we recommend visiting the Crystal Coast to see the horses there!
