outer banks off road tours

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Outer Banks Wild Horse Tours Corolla, NC

Outer banks wild horse tours in corolla, nc.

With more terrain, no two tours are ever the same.

IF YOU LIKE HISTORY, ECOLOGY, & ADVENTURE, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

Tour with us to find the Outer Banks Wild Corolla Spanish Mustang Horses and discover some of the most unique sights OBX has to offer. Our friendly and knowledgeable tour guides take you onto pristine northern beaches that are accessible only with a 4×4 off-road vehicle. Book your tour online today!

OUTER BANKS WILD HORSE TOUR

off-road Hummer adventure in Corolla, NC

Feel the ocean breeze and taste the salty beach air as you cruise the Outer Banks beaches in our exclusive open-air Hummers with one of our seasoned guides in search of the Colonial Spanish Mustangs! View the horses in their natural environment as we venture into three distinct ecosystems teeming with wildlife accessible only by off-road vehicles.

Users All Ages

Clock 2 Hours

Bus Up to 13 Passengers

ABOUT WILD HORSE ADVENTURE TOURS

Voted the #1 tour company in the USA by TripAdvisor

Wild Horse Adventure Tours is proud to offer Hummer Adventure Tours! Explore the Outer Banks beaches in our exclusive open-air, 13-passenger Hummers with one of our seasoned guides in search of the Colonial Spanish Mustangs! With the added capabilities of our custom designed open air Hummer H1s, we venture into three previously inaccessible and distinct ecosystems teeming with wildlife of all types! New exclusive rights to the Wild Horse Sanctuary in Swan Beach allow us to view the horses in their natural environment.

Our Hummer H1 vehicles have been customized with your safety in mind. All designs have been over-engineered for the safest, most comfortable ride possible. Seats have seatbelts and restraint systems for child seats. All seats are actual car seats- no boat-style bench seats or plastic bucket seats. An additional upper windshield with a top made with fine mesh and clear plastic enables occupants a 360-degree view. Our Hummer’s have more leg room than any standard SUV, 21 inch wide seats, and stadium seating configuration that offers ultimate comfort and visibility for all.

Voted the #1 tour company in the US by TripAdvisor

Certificate of Excellence Awards won since 2012.

Tripadvisor Hall of Fame Winner since 2012.

Over 10,000+ 5-star reviews from our previous customers!

"All good things are wild & free."

– HENRY DAVID THOREAU –

TOP-RATED OUTER BANKS WILD HORSE TOURS

with over 10,000 5-star reviews on tripadvisor

With over 10,000 5-star reviews.

This was such an awesome unique experience. I’ve personally been around horses and ridden horses many times but to see them in the wild is definitely a new experience. My kids had a lot of fun on the hummer ride right on the beach. Loved our guide and his silly pirate jokes.

This was our first trip to to the Outer Banks and one of the few "experiences" we had planned. I was really looking forward to this and my husband was quite skeptical. By the end of the tour he was amazed and had a great time! We cannot say enough good things about our tour guide Stu. Very knowledgeable not only about the history of Corolla and the horses.

Really fun ride on the sandy beaches and lanes of this wild horse sanctuary. Stu rocks as a tour guide, being very knowledgeable and a great guy. We saw lots of horses and learned a lot. Highly recommend. It was early November so appreciated being layered.

This was our second time doing this tour with Richard and it was the highlight of our trip! He is such a great guide and we saw several groups of beautiful horses. He does a great job of explaining the laws that help keep the horses safe and is very passionate in his job! Can't wait to come back again.

Agree with all the other reviews. This tour is absolutely worth the extra money. Our tour guide was amazing and WORKED IT to find the horses for us on our tour. Thanks for the tip to bring a warm coat! Phenomenal tour.

Great tour! Nice and knowledgeable staff. Well worth the investment. We appreciated the fact that the owners and our guide were locals to the area. Our guide Stu really cared about the preservation and protection of the wildlife in Corolla. Highly recommend this company! Thank you for the anniversary experience!

Sit back and enjoy the exhilarating ride down a 4WD beach with the wind blowing through your hair and the surf by your side. Our guide Karen was great, her driving skills are amazing. She was very knowledgeable and entertaining. Although I did not see the picturesque bucking mustangs on the beach, this was an AWESOME tour. Definitely recommend!

Excellent tour for those who want to learn about the wild mustangs and see Corolla. Rode onto the beach, which was amazing and found tons of horses. Richard did an excellent job teaching us about the history of the horses and the local area. Would highly recommend this tour for the learning experience and seeing horses that come from 500 years ago.

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Appreciate the Thrill of the Outer Banks! Savor our beautiful oceans and wildlife and get your heart pumping with our full fleet of kayaks and 4 x 4s.

Getting There Is Half the Fun! Enjoy the thrill of our GPS-enabled Jeeps and Polaris Razors.

Choose Your Own Adventure! Join us for guided Wild Horse Tours. Drive a Jeep or ride in our Safari Trucks.

Wild Horse Tours

Load the crew into our custom safari truck for a 25 mile off-road tour in…

Blaze the trails of over 40 acres on our private conservation area. Climb Penny’s Hill,…

Jeep Adventure

Cruise Corolla’s famed 4×4 area in one of our safari jeeps for a 25+ mile…

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Drive off-road into the heart of Corolla’s 4×4 area to a private waterway located behind…

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Drivers 18 and up welcome.

Corolla Jeep Adventures

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THE 5 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Corolla, NC

4wd, atv & off-road tours in corolla.

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1. Wild Horse Adventure Tours

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Save on your vacation fun! Book early for $5 OFF adult tickets for any tour in 2024!

Offer expires May 4th. Valid for online bookings only. Valid at time of booking only. May not be combined with other offers.

Use code:  spring5

Corolla Wild Horse Tours

Corolla Wild Horse Tours knowledgeable guides will ensure you and your family have a great wild horse tour! Along the way the guides will stop and point out interesting sites and local history and details of the Corolla Wild Horses history. Be sure to ask them lots of questions and keep them honest! Call or book today and come see our living history!

Corolla Wild Horse Tours Focus on Family

Corolla Wild Horse Tours Reviews

Relax, unwind and have a good time, with Corolla Wild Horse Tours! With more than 20 years of experience, we are great family fun!

“Great Experience!”

Definitely recommended for all ages! Everyone in the group (10 including 3, 2 year old boys) loved seeing all the horses not to mention a 1 week old foal! Our guide Wiley couldn’t have been better as he very knowledgeable of the area/horses and has a great sense of humor. Thanks to everyone at Corolla Wild Horse Tours for making our vacation to Duck that much better!

“Wild horses on the beach!”

Had a great experience and our tour guide Gator was so knowledgeable and kind! We will share this memory with our friends and family forever! I can’t say enough about how beautiful it was! Especially seeing the horses on the beach ❤️

“Wild horses and a safari style drive”

The tour was 3 hours long with a tour guide who was very knowledgeable. We saw almost 30 of the 110 wild horses on the island and the ride up and down the dunes, through large puddles, and on the beach was worth the money even if we hadn't seen any horses. The scenery was picturesque and a lot of fun!

“Walk away with a smile.”

This is our second year of going on the Wild Horse Adventure Tour. There was a group of 13 of us and we drove the jeeps following the guide. We had so much fun. The jeeps had much better suspensions and were easier to get into then last year’s, so you weren’t tossed around as much, but the terrain added to the fun. ...

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THE 5 BEST 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Outer Banks, NC

4wd, atv & off-road tours in outer banks.

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• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Wild Horse Adventure Tours

2. Back Country Safari Tours

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Things to Do in Corolla, NC: Off-roading

The beaches in Corolla and Carova are choice destinations for people who want to get go off-roading, making this a popular thing to do in Corolla, NC. Some people reach N.C. Highway 12’s end (just north of the historic village) and take to the sand in their own vehicles. But for those who don’t have cars or trucks suited to driving in the sand – or simply don’t want to deal with the possibility of getting stuck – Corolla’s wild horse tour companies give customers the off-road experience and the sought-after opportunity to also see the wild horses. 

Featured for Your Visit

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours' highly trained staff has a great reputation for being entertaining and informative. Their tours last two hours and incorporate quite a bit of local history to complement the sightseeing while showering you with interesting lore. In the four-wheel-drive area you’ll see the Corolla wild horses grazing in their natural habitat and the occasional deer and surfing dolphins. Back Beach tours are given in safari-style, open-air vehicles for a one-of-a-kind Outer Banks activity. They can accommodate large groups of up to 15 people. Call for details and reservations.

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours' highly trained staff has a great reputation for being entertaining and informative. Their tours last two hours and incorporate quite a bit of local history to complement the sightseeing while showering you with interesting lore. In the four-wheel-drive area you’ll see the Corolla wild horses grazing in their natural habitat and the occasional deer and surfing dolphins. Back Beach tours are given in safari-style, ... read more

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours' highly trained staff has a great reputation for being entertaining and ... read more

Back Country Wild Horse Safari Tour

Scott Trabue’s Wild Horse Safari is an off-road eco-adventure that will deliver you and your family directly to the wild Spanish mustangs that have thrived on the northern Outer Banks for nearly 500 years. Your naturalist guide will carry you in custom open-air Safari Cruisers through 30 miles of beaches, dune and back-country sand lanes to discover the Outer Banks’ unique wildlife. Shore life including pelicans, dolphins and osprey are almost always present. You will hear stories about the Ghost Fleet and Outer Banks maritime history and learn about the mysterious petrified forest. Back Country Outfitters has exclusive access to the Spanish Mustang Preserve, where sightings of these regal wild horses are guaranteed, while your tour guide explains their Spanish Colonial heritage and the local preservation efforts. Reservations are required.

Scott Trabue’s Wild Horse Safari is an off-road eco-adventure that will deliver you and your family directly to the wild Spanish mustangs that have thrived on the northern Outer Banks for nearly 500 years. Your naturalist guide will carry you in custom open-air Safari Cruisers through 30 miles of beaches, dune and back-country sand lanes to discover the Outer Banks’ unique wildlife. Shore life including... read more

Scott Trabue’s Wild Horse Safari is an off-road eco-adventure that will deliver you and your... read more

Bob's Wild Horse Tours

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have been offering tours since 1996, and they have a reputation for being both entertaining and informative. Bob’s tours last two hours and incorporate quite a bit of local history and interesting lore to complement the sightseeing. In the four-wheel-drive area, you’ll see the horses grazing in their natural habitat, often along with the sight of dolphins in the ocean. All tours are given in safari-style, open-air vehicles for a one-of-a-kind experience, and they can accommodate large groups of as many as 15 people. Call for details and reservations. 

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have been offering tours since 1996, and they have a reputation for being both entertaining and informative. Bob’s tours last two hours and incorporate quite a bit of local history and interesting lore to complement the sightseeing. In the four-wheel-drive area, you’ll see the horses grazing in their natural habitat, often along with ... read more

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have ... read more

Corolla Wild Horse Tours

Corolla Wild Horse Tours has been guiding tours to Corolla’s horse country –  the four-wheel-drive-only beaches north of Corolla – since 1996. With these experienced and knowledgeable guides, you can sit back and enjoy a comfortable, family-oriented tour. This company uses 15-passenger, open-air safari-style trucks that are safe for any age, including kids in car seats. Along the trip, your guide will tell you about the history of Corolla and the horses as well as point out all the wonders of nature. The guides have a reputation of being quite entertaining. The two-hour tours, which cover about 25 miles of off-road area, run all day long until sunset.

Corolla Wild Horse Tours has been guiding tours to Corolla’s horse country –  the four-wheel-drive-only beaches north of Corolla – since 1996. With these experienced and knowledgeable guides, you can sit back and enjoy a comfortable, family-oriented tour. This company uses 15-passenger, open-air safari-style trucks that are safe for any age, including kids in car seats. Along the trip, your guide will tell you about the ... read more

Corolla Wild Horse Tours has been guiding tours to Corolla’s horse country –  the four-wheel-drive-only beaches ... read more

Wild Horse Adventure Tours

If you want to see the wild horses in the four-wheel-drive area north of Corolla, Wild Horse Adventure Tours can be your guide for this popular Outer Banks activity. They’ll get you into horse country in their open-air Hummer H1s, which have been custom designed to seat up to 13 passengers comfortably. With exclusive rights to the Wild Horse Sanctuary in Swan Beach, the seasoned guides at Wild Horse Adventure Tours know exactly where to look for the horses. They know how to drive in the sand and they know a lot about the history of the area too, making for an enlightening trip. They’ll also point out wildlife, plants and interesting natural aspects of this ocean-side environment. They run many scheduled trips per day, so call to get all the details and make a reservation. Prices vary per season. 

If you want to see the wild horses in the four-wheel-drive area north of Corolla, Wild Horse Adventure Tours can be your guide for this popular Outer Banks activity. They’ll get you into horse country in their open-air Hummer H1s, which have been custom designed to seat up to 13 passengers comfortably. With exclusive rights to the Wild Horse Sanctuary in Swan Beach, the seasoned guides... read more

If you want to see the wild horses in the four-wheel-drive area north of Corolla,... read more

Corolla Jeep Adventures and Wild Horse Tours

Corolla Jeep Adventures is the oldest tour company in Corolla, offering guided excursions of the off-road area, including their own private 400-acre hunt club. Guided tours are two hours long and are conducted in open-air safari trucks. You can also rent a soft-top Jeep and drive yourself following your guide. These tours last two hours, and the guide will take you on a course where... read more

Corolla Outback Adventures

Today's Corolla Outback Adventures evolved from the original family business that began as Bender's Beach Service in 1962 when the paved road ended at Duck. This unique tour travels the same roadless beach into Corolla's “outback,” where wild herds of horses are still free to roam. The 20-mile round trip includes exclusive access into the wild horse habitat on land the Bender family donated for their... read more

Corolla Wild Horses

The Corolla wild horses are recognized as a significant cultural and historical resource by the state of North Carolina and were designated as the North Carolina State Horse in 2010. The herd is protected and monitored by the nonprofit Corolla Wild Horse Fund Inc. of Corolla.  To learn more about the horses call or visit the Corolla Wild Horse Museum and Store at ... read more

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Rent a Jeep OBX Beach parking Pass Included

Jeep Gladiator & Wrangler rentals

4-wheel-drive SUV rentals

$225 per day / one day rentals are due back the same day by 8 PM

Open all year, 7-days a week 8 am -8 pm for reservation holders.

CLICK OR CALL 252-564-4218 – TO BOOK YOUR JEEP You may now book online for rentals of 2 or more days

An Outer Banks Vacation is Not Complete Without Exploring 4×4 Beaches.  Corolla Jeep rentals  Wrangler or Jeep Gladiator. The Outer Banks (OBX) is a prime vacation destination, known for its pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. But to truly experience the Outer Banks’ unique charm, you need to explore the region’s 4×4 beaches in a Jeep or 4wd SUV rental. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure with an OBX Jeep!

Renting Process

Renting a Jeep or 4wd SUV for your OBX vacation is a breeze. Bret & Diane are eager to assist you in selecting the perfect vehicle for your needs. Be sure to have your personal auto insurance handy and book your rental in advance, as demand can be high during peak season.

4×4 vehicle choices

All of our vehicles are sent up for beach driving, the Wranglers and Jeep Gladiators seat-5 while the 4wd SUVs can hold up to 8 adults.

Why rent a 4×4?

A 4-wheel-drive vehicle gives the freedom to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, providing a more immersive and authentic experience of the Outer Banks. Discover hidden coves, secret fishing spots, and spectacular vistas that are only accessible with an off-road capable vehicle.

7-days a week 8-8

 (252) 564 – 4218 [email protected]

 Beach4x4 Shared drive with U-Haul 2101 Colington Road Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 Privacy Policy

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Outer Banks Tours

There are lots of places to go and see in the Outer Banks, and a great way to hit all the major stops is to take tours. Outer Banks tours range from adventurous to luxurious and familiar to wild, so it isn’t hard to find tours that will interest you. You can tour through nature preserves and wildlife refuges, taking the trails on foot and the marshes and sound by kayak. If you want to catch a glimpse of the wild Spanish Mustangs, you can take a safari tour in an open air Jeep or safari style bus led by locals who know the horses’ favorite spots to graze and play. You can even stroll through expansive gardens and historic farms and gaze upon beautiful flowers or blacksmiths at work. And tours don’t necessarily have to be outside – you can find tours that will take you through a historic mansion, to different restaurants or even to breweries, which are perfect places to visit on those rainy days. Check out the listing below to learn about all of the different Outer Banks tours and get ready to see where you end up.

Outer Banks Things To Do by Area

Corolla  |  Duck & Southern Shores  |  Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills & Nags Head Roanoke Island & Manteo  |  Hatteras Island  |  Ocracoke Island

Outer Banks Things To Do by Category

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is a more than 164,000-acre refuge on the mainland portion of Dare and Hyde counties. It was established in 1984 to preserve and protect a unique wetland habitat type, the pocosin, and its associated wildlife species. Pocosin is a Native American word meaning ‘swamp-on-a-hill’ and is characterized by poorly drained soils high in organic material. The refuge's diversity of habitat types includes high and low pocosin, bogs, fresh and brackish water marshes, hardwood swamps and Atlantic white cedar swamps. Plant species include pitcher plants and sundews, low bush cranberries, bays, Atlantic white cedar, pond pine, gums, red maple and a wide variety of herbaceous and shrub species common to the East Coast.

The refuge has a large population of black bears and is one of the few locations where red wolves exist in the wild. It is a favorite of migratory ducks, geese and swans, and its wildlife diversity also includes wading birds, shorebirds, American woodcock, raptors, American alligators, white-tailed deer, raccoons, rabbits, quail, river otters and neotropical migrant songbirds. This wild Outer Banks attraction will put you in touch with parts of nature that city-bound people don't often have a chance to experience.

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge has great Outer Banks things to do – paddling trails, a wildlife drive and two wildlife trails for you to explore. Hunting and fishing opportunities also exist on the refuge. In non-COVID times the staff offers a variety of interpretive programs at different times of the year, including tram and van tours, canoe tours, red wolf howlings and a program about black bears. Open-air tram tours are offered weekly June through August (a fee and reservations are required). Canoe tours are offered three days a week June through August (fee and reservations required). Red wolf howlings are offered weekly June through August and monthly October, November, December and April and May (a fee is required). Call ( 252) 216-9464  to see if programs are being held and to find out details and make reservations, or go to the website .

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is a more than 164,000-acre refuge on the mainland portion of Dare and Hyde counties. It was established in 1984 to... read more

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is a more than 164,000-acre refuge on the mainland portion... read more

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours' highly trained staff has a great reputation for being entertaining and informative. Their tours last two hours and incorporate quite a bit of local history to complement the sightseeing while showering you with interesting lore. In the four-wheel-drive area you’ll see the Corolla wild horses grazing in their natural habitat and the occasional deer and surfing dolphins. Back Beach tours are given in safari-style, open-air vehicles for a one-of-a-kind Outer Banks activity. They can accommodate large groups of up to 15 people. Call for details and reservations.

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours' highly trained staff has a great reputation for being entertaining and informative. Their tours last two hours and ... read more

Back Beach Wild Horse Tours' highly trained staff has a great reputation for being entertaining and ... read more

Back Country 4x4 & Kayak Safari

Some of the best wildlife viewing and paddling on the Outer Banks takes place in the remote northern waterways of the Currituck Sound near the Virginia border. Back Country’s unique 4x4 & Kayak Safari carries small groups and families by custom open-air Safari Cruisers through 30 miles of off-road beach, dune and sand trail to paddle from the private Spanish Mustang Preserve where they have exclusive access. The waters are protected from wind and current, and the tandem kayaks are super stable. Naturalist guides, who are also your kayak instructors, will explain Outer Banks ecology and point out local wildlife. In an effort to preserve this unspoiled habitat, Back Country limits space to just 10 people. Each tour is three-plus hours and is the best of both worlds, an off-road 4x4 Safari excursion and a kayak tour. Tours are available for beginner or intermediate paddlers. Reservations are required.

Some of the best wildlife viewing and paddling on the Outer Banks takes place in the remote northern waterways of the Currituck Sound near the Virginia... read more

Some of the best wildlife viewing and paddling on the Outer Banks takes place in... read more

Back Country Wild Horse Safari Tour

Scott Trabue’s Wild Horse Safari is an off-road eco-adventure that will deliver you and your family directly to the wild Spanish mustangs that have thrived on the northern Outer Banks for nearly 500 years. Your naturalist guide will carry you in custom open-air Safari Cruisers through 30 miles of beaches, dune and back-country sand lanes to discover the Outer Banks’ unique wildlife. Shore life including pelicans, dolphins and osprey are almost always present. You will hear stories about the Ghost Fleet and Outer Banks maritime history and learn about the mysterious petrified forest. Back Country Outfitters has exclusive access to the Spanish Mustang Preserve, where sightings of these regal wild horses are guaranteed, while your tour guide explains their Spanish Colonial heritage and the local preservation efforts. Reservations are required.

Scott Trabue’s Wild Horse Safari is an off-road eco-adventure that will deliver you and your family directly to the wild Spanish mustangs that have thrived... read more

Scott Trabue’s Wild Horse Safari is an off-road eco-adventure that will deliver you and your... read more

Bob's Wild Horse Tours

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have been offering tours since 1996, and they have a reputation for being both entertaining and informative. Bob’s tours last two hours and incorporate quite a bit of local history and interesting lore to complement the sightseeing. In the four-wheel-drive area, you’ll see the horses grazing in their natural habitat, often along with the sight of dolphins in the ocean. All tours are given in safari-style, open-air vehicles for a one-of-a-kind experience, and they can accommodate large groups of as many as 15 people. Call for details and reservations. 

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have been offering tours since 1996, and they have a reputation for ... read more

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have ... read more

Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tours

It’s very exciting to watch bottlenosed dolphins frolicking and rolling through the water. Dolphins live in the sounds and from June through October frequent the local waters. Capt. Stuart Wescott, a ninth-generation Roanoke Island native, has been conducting dolphin watch tours in the Roanoke Sound aboard the 53-foot pontoon-type boat Capt. Johnny for more than 25 years. If you miss the dolphins on your first trip, Capt. Wescott gives you a second tour for free. He shares his knowledge and history of the area on the tour as well. Dolphin tours last two hours, and there are several trips a day (morning, mid-day and sunset). Tours range in price from $10 to $35; call for details. Sunset cruises, bird-watching tours and shrimping/crabbing cruises are also offered. Stop by the dock site on the Manteo waterfront or call for more information on this very popular Outer Banks activity. Note that these tours run only Monday through Friday, though charters are also available on Saturdays and Sundays. 

It’s very exciting to watch bottlenosed dolphins frolicking and rolling through the water. Dolphins live in the sounds and from June through October... read more

It’s very exciting to watch bottlenosed dolphins frolicking and rolling through the water. Dolphins live... read more

Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station

The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station is the nation’s largest and most complete existing example of the life-saving stations that were built along the Atlantic coast in the late 19th century to attend to shipwrecks and to rescue survivors. The 1874 Station was the first operational U.S. Life-Saving Service station built in North Carolina, serving until 1954. Chicamacomico has been partially restored, thanks to numerous volunteers who formed a nonprofit organization to save it, and it is now a fine museum and historic site; all structures are original buildings.

On a visit here you’ll see the 1874 Station, the 1911 Station, two cookhouses, water tanks and a cistern, a stable, a tractor shed, the smaller boathouse and a village home built in 1907. In the museum, you’ll learn about the U.S. Life-Saving Service Station and some of the rescues that occurred here. Artifacts, uniforms, rescue equipment, displays, video presentations and self-guided tours help complete your knowledge of place and history. These stations have many stories to tell. Life-Saving crews at Chicamacomico performed many daring rescues, including one of the greatest rescues of WWI, that of the British tanker Mirlo in 1918. When the Mirlo was sunk by the German submarine U-117, Chicamacomico’s crew rescued 42 of 51 British sailors. The gift shop is full of unique nautical items and works by local craftspeople plus books and old-fashioned toys.

The historic breeches buoy demonstration is held every Thursday at 2 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The 100th anniversary of the  Mirlo rescue was commemorated  on August 16, 2018,  with a centennial event.

Check their website  for special program information, admission fees and hours of operation and to see what is happening on any given day. Chicamacomico is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit raising all of its own funds; it has no federal, state or other budget.  

The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station is the nation’s largest and most complete existing example of the life-saving stations that were built along the... read more

The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station is the nation’s largest and most complete existing example of the... read more

Corolla Wild Horse Tours

Corolla Wild Horse Tours has been guiding tours to Corolla’s horse country –  the four-wheel-drive-only beaches north of Corolla – since 1996. With these experienced and knowledgeable guides, you can sit back and enjoy a comfortable, family-oriented tour. This company uses 15-passenger, open-air safari-style trucks that are safe for any age, including kids in car seats. Along the trip, your guide will tell you about the history of Corolla and the horses as well as point out all the wonders of nature. The guides have a reputation of being quite entertaining. The two-hour tours, which cover about 25 miles of off-road area, run all day long until sunset.

Corolla Wild Horse Tours has been guiding tours to Corolla’s horse country –  the four-wheel-drive-only beaches north of Corolla – since 1996. With ... read more

Corolla Wild Horse Tours has been guiding tours to Corolla’s horse country –  the four-wheel-drive-only beaches ... read more

Country Girl Charters

As one of the few boats in the Oregon Inlet fishing fleet that is licensed to carry more than six anglers, the 57-foot  Country Girl can be chartered for Gulf Stream trips for parties of six or more people. These full-day offshore charter fishing trips can yield tuna and mahi-mahi, wahoo, king mackerel, marlin or sailfish depending on the season and conditions. The Country Girl also offers head boat-style bottom fishing for up to 27 passengers. You’ll catch a variety of species, including black sea bass, triggerfish, dolphin, gray tilefish, amberjack and more. Bait, tackle and fishing licenses are furnished on all fishing charters, and the captain and mate are experienced and helpful. Country Girl also offers private cruises in the sound (a great way to get a big group of friends together on the water) as well as ashes at sea ceremonies.

As one of the few boats in the Oregon Inlet fishing fleet that is licensed to carry more than six anglers, the 57-foot  Country Girl can be... read more

As one of the few boats in the Oregon Inlet fishing fleet that is licensed... read more

Crystal Dawn Head Boat

Looking to get out on the water? Crystal Dawn , docked at Pirate's Cove Marina on the Nags Head/Manteo Causeway, is a comfortable, 65-foot, double-decker party boat / head boat that's all about good times on the water. Whether you want to take the kids fishing in the sound and around Oregon Inlet or gather up your friends and family for a party cruise around Roanoke Island, they have got you covered. For sightseeing on the sound, Sunset Cruises are offered from 6 to 7:30 pm nightly in April, May, September and October. During the summer season in June, July, and August cruises are from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Along the way you'll see lighthouses, historic sites, working watermen and wildlife like birds and dolphin.  Crystal Dawn  is available for private charters for birthday and anniversary celebrations, bachelor and bachelorette parties, small weddings, school groups, ashes at sea ceremonies, family functions and more. The boat can accommodate up to 100 passengers.  On one of their half-day head boat fishing trips, you'll catch fish such as flounder, croaker, spot, trout, sea mullet, sea bass and more, depending on the season and conditions. All bait, tackle and licenses are furnished, and this is a great way to introduce kids to fishing. The on-board mate can help with everything. T hey limit the number of passengers on fishing trips to 50 for the comfort of all passengers. A sk about other tours, including the 4th of July Fireworks Cruise and Purple Martin Excursions in late July and early August.

Looking to get out on the water? Crystal Dawn , docked at Pirate's Cove Marina on the Nags Head/Manteo Causeway, is a comfortable, 65-foot, double-... read more

Looking to get out on the water? Crystal Dawn , docked at Pirate's Cove Marina on... read more

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

The red-brick Currituck Beach Lighthouse towers above the Historic Corolla Village. Visitors to this Outer Banks attraction can climb the winding staircase, 220 steps in all, to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of Currituck Sound, the Atlantic Ocean and the Currituck Outer Banks. Inside the lighthouse, at the base and on the first two landings, there are museum-quality lighthouse exhibits. On the way up or down, stop to learn about the history of coastal lighthouses, the Fresnel lens, shipwrecks and the lighthouse keepers.

The 162-foot lighthouse was first lit on December 1, 1875. Onsite keepers, who lived in homes at the base of the lighthouse, operated the lighthouse until it was automated in 1937. With automation, the lighthouse no longer required a regular keeper. The lighthouse and its outbuildings fell into disrepair for decades until a nonprofit group called Outer Banks Conservationists, Inc. (OBC) stepped in to save the site in 1980. OBC renovated the keepers’ buildings to re-create their past glories and restored the lighthouse to make it safe to climb. In July 2003 The U.S. Department of the Interior awarded OBC ownership of the lighthouse.

It costs only $10 to climb the lighthouse. Payment conveys an understanding and acceptance of the lighthouse's posted waiver of liability (the tower construction predates modern building codes and safety regulations). Children must be 4 years old to climb, and children ages 4 to 12 years old must have adult supervision. Parents or guardians must sign a waiver for children ages 13 to 17 to climb alone. Children younger than 4 may enter free but only if in a carrier. Visitors stand in line to pay admission outside the lighthouse. The lighthouse is open daily from mid-March through December 1. Climbing hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. During extreme weather, the lighthouse is closed to climbing. Parking is free. Leashed dogs welcome on the grounds. 

The nearby Double Keepers’ House is used as a private residence, but it makes for great photographs. You can go inside the small Keeper’s House, moved to the site in 1920 from Long Point Light Station in the Currituck Sound, which is now a Museum Shop and stocks everything lighthouse-related you could ever imagine. T-shirts, hats, books, postcards, blankets, taffy, ornaments, jewelry, magnets, figurines and more fill this former keeper’s residence. 

The red-brick Currituck Beach Lighthouse towers above the Historic Corolla Village. Visitors to this Outer Banks attraction can climb the winding staircase... read more

The red-brick Currituck Beach Lighthouse towers above the Historic Corolla Village. Visitors to this Outer... read more

Elizabethan Gardens

Designed by two of America’s foremost landscape architects to pay tribute to America’s first English colonists, The Elizabethan Gardens is a rare treasure and a beloved Outer Banks attraction. It’s a haven of verdant, flourishing growth and natural prosperity. The gardens are in bloom year-round with azaleas, hydrangeas, roses, camellias, flowering trees, a variety of annuals and herbs and much more. Adding exquisite touches are imported Italian Renaissance fountains, garden ornaments, a waterfront gazebo, benches, statues, an expansive lawn and some of the most amazing live oaks you’ll ever see. The large shade canopy overhead provides a cool oasis even on the sunniest summer day. The Garden Gift Shoppe sells books, gifts, herbs and plants. This is a trusted plant source for many locals, as the garden staff nurtures their plants with great care. New at The Elizabethan Gardens is the John White Butterfly Center. Guests are welcome to walk through the indoor greenhouse, which houses butterflies from May through September. The Elizabethan Gardens also has many new family-friendly aspects, including The Discovery Cottage, an indoor/outdoor educational play area and a location for summer programs. The play area offers a large play ship reminiscent of the ship that carried the colonists to the New World, swings, slides, Elizabethan-style playhouses, educational signage, a koi pond, sandpits, a fossil pit, outdoor picnic tables and room to run. The Elizabethan Gardens holds outstanding events such as horticulture education workshops and summer programs for kids. Seasonal events throughout the year include Easter Eggstravaganza (day before Easter); Butterfly Festival (month of April), Virginia Dare’s Birthday Celebration (August), Peace, Love and Dogs (September), Harvest Hayday (October) and WinterLights (December and January). The gardens open at 9 a.m. seven days a week throughout most of the year and at 10 a.m. in December and January. They are closed to the public in February for maintenance. Closing time varies according to the season. Admission (pre-tax) is $10 for adults, $7 for youth ages 6 to 17, $3 for children ages 2 to 5 and free for children younger than 2. Dogs are admitted for $3, but service dogs get in free. Organized tour groups can apply for reduced admission rates in advance. Tickets are for timed entry admission and are purchased online at  elizabethangardens.org . The gardens make a beautiful setting for photographs, bridal luncheons, weddings, receptions, retreats or meetings. Choose from a variety of backdrops for an unforgettable day. An on-site Reception Hall, tent and Rose Garden accommodate parties large and small. Rental information is posted online. f From late June through mid-August, on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Elizabethan Gardens offers these fun, kid-friendly events with paid admission. Events are weather-dependent and limited to 10 participants outdoors at the Discovery Cottage. Tickets must be purchased 24 hours in advance of the date. Backyard Birds: Discover more about the birds in your own backyard with educational and hands-on activities for inquisitive minds. Participants will explore about birds with a guided art craft and create a bird snack to take to home.     Fun with Frogs: Discover the exciting life cycle of frogs with educational and hands-on activities for inquisitive minds   Butterflies: Discover the exciting life-cycle of butterflies with educational and hands-on activities for inquisitive minds.   Helpful Bugs: Learn about the beneficial insects in the gardens.  Self-Guided Audio Tours: Take a tour at your leisure using your mobile device, anytime during regular hours of operation year-round.

Designed by two of America’s foremost landscape architects to pay tribute to America’s first English colonists, The Elizabethan Gardens is a rare treasure... read more

Designed by two of America’s foremost landscape architects to pay tribute to America’s first English... read more

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Don't just take our word for it, see for yourself the beauty of the Outer Banks. This as we call "America's First Beach"  is a truly unique and special place where you can mark many "firsts" off your bucket list. By Air , By Land or By Sea , pick the tour that best suits you. We offer many trips for groups and the entire family. Fishing lessons , biking on the beach, hearing howls of Red Wolves are just a few to name. 

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Outer Banks Tours

Tour guide sections:, kayak tours.

• Boat and Fishing Tours

Aerial Tours

Wild horse tours.

Many newcomers to the Outer Banks find the best way to delve into the local history, scenery and culture is via a tour, and luckily the Outer Banks has a world of different tours available. Vacationers can take to the sea, skies, or the land for an in-depth view of the Outer Banks, and can choose from quick one-hour excursions to overnight trips that explore the region's little known hidden treasures.

For an introduction to everything the Outer Banks has to offer, or to experience the North Carolina Coast from an entirely new perspective, hop on board a boat, kayak, bus or plane, and begin a guided adventure that will surely leave your family completely fascinated with the rich landscape of the Outer Banks.

Kayaking has become one of the most popular water sports on the Outer Banks, due in no small part to the miles and miles of water available for dipping in a paddle. From the small canals of the Currituck or Pamlico Sounds to the rushing ocean waters, the Outer Banks is the perfect playground for kayakers, and visiting explorers who want to scope out the best kayaking locations can embark on a local kayak tour.

How Kayak Tours Work

Kayak tours are available throughout the Outer Banks, from the northern beaches to Ocracoke Island, and generally launch from the nearest sound or local harbor for a trip filled with picturesque scenic views and amazing waterfront sunsets . Kayaks, paddles, and life vests are typically provided, and before the tour begins, kayakers are generally given a brief instruction on how to maneuver in the water.

Perhaps one of the best aspects of local kayaking is its accessibility - virtually anyone can learn how to navigate a kayak in mere minutes, and the gentle exercise of paddling, particularly in the sound, is easy for riders of all ages.

Once launched, kayak tour guides can take participants on a variety of different excursions, from scenic glides along Downtown Manteo or Ocracoke Village to nature tours that explore the soundside canals in search of Ibis, Egrets and Great Blue Herons. Simple nature tours are one of the most popular types of kayaking tours, as this adventure covers all aspects of the local Outer Banks wildlife, from the jumping baiting mullet that may run alongside the vessels to pelicans and cormorants who make brief appearances along the way.

Sunset tours are also immensely popular among vacationers, as the sun setting in the Pamlico, Roanoke, Albemarle or Currituck Sounds produces a brilliant array of colors across the water and sky, and it's hard to beat the vantage point from a waterfront kayak.

Regardless of which type of tour your group chooses, be sure and bring bottled water, sunscreen, and bathing suits, as while the majority of new kayakers stay high and dry, the occasional splash of saltwater is all but inevitable.

Where to go for Outer Banks Kayak Tours

There are a number of local and regional kayak tour companies on the Outer Banks, and basically every major sound access point has them available, from Corolla and Duck's waterfront docks to Hatteras Harbor.

One of the largest kayak tour providers is local water sports giant, Kitty Hawk Kites , which offers tours via all their store and sports locations throughout the Outer Banks. A number of tours are available, including nature tours, sunset tours, and even overnight trips.

For any kayak tour, be sure and make your reservation well in advance. Large groups can usually be accommodated, and little equipment is required. In fact, all a kayaker needs is a sense of adventure and a love of the water, although a waterproof camera tends to come in handy too, especially on a local Outer Banks sunset tour.

Kayak tours are generally available from mid-March through the fall when the water and air temperatures are at their best. Make-up tours are also available for inclement weather days, and kayakers can expect to spend anywhere from an hour to 4-5 hours on the water.

One of the best ways to tour the Outer Banks is by water. With well over 200 miles of waterfront, there is certainly a lot to cover, and a boat tour can give passengers a whole new perspective of this fragile chain of barrier islands, as well as introduce vacationers to a whole new world of offshore Outer Banks treasures, such as Bird Island, Pelican Island, and all the winding marshy canals and sandbars in between.

How Boat Tours Work

Because of an Outer Bankers' natural love of the water, a wide variety of tours are available, from Manteo to Ocracoke, and visitors basically have their pick of the type and style of boat tour to board.

Kids can embark on a swashbuckling Pirate Cruise, which blends local pirate lore with live-action pirates storming the decks, or a Boat Tour Safari, which focuses on the Outer Bank's local wildlife, including birds, turtles, and dolphins.

Speaking of dolphins, a number of Outer Banks dolphin tours are also available. These tours slowly navigate the waters of the Pamlico, Albemarle and Roanoke Sounds in search of these friendly locals. Birding tours to Pelican Island or Bird Island are also available, as well as overall scenic explorations of the soundside and oceanside.

For romance, embark on a sailing sunset cruise off the Manteo Waterfront, or take the whole gang on a party boat for a few hours of living it up on the high seas. Clearly, there is no shortage of tours available, and excursions can last anywhere from an hour or two to an entire day of navigating around the Outer Banks.

Before booking, you'll want to see what tours are available closest to your area. Decide ahead of time what kind of "tour" would best fit your family, and on what kind of vessel. On the Outer Banks, visitors have their pick of boarding a small cruise ship, a charter fishing boat, or even a sailboat. Can't decide? With dozens of boat tours available seasonally, there's always time for another boat trip or two during your vacation.

Where to go for Outer Banks Boat Tours

Generally, all major Outer Banks marinas and harbors have tours launching daily during the summer months, so a visitor in any Outer Banks area has a boat tour just waiting to be boarded nearby.

In particular, a number of tours depart from the Manteo Waterfront, from Oregon Inlet Marina just north of Nags Head, from the collection of small marinas in Hatteras Village, and from Ocracoke's busy harbor front. Be sure and check what tours are available in your area, and call ahead for departure times and rates. Also remember that boat tours are dependent on good weather, and a little Dramamine and sunscreen can come in handy on sunny or windy days.

Many tour companies offer "specialized" tours for small groups, which caters the tour to the group's specific interests. For example, Got 'Em Charters , which departs from Teach's Lair Marina in Hatteras Village, can take passengers inshore to search for dolphins, or to small water-locked islands where hundreds of whelks and conchs are waiting for beach-goers to snatch up, or even on extended day trips to the beaches of Ocracoke or Portsmouth Island .

Wherever your boat tour takes you, your group will surely adore experiencing these barrier islands from the water, and a boat tour of any kind is easily a highlight of an Outer Banks vacation.

One of the easiest ways to explore all 100+ miles of the Outer Banks is by a guided bus tour, and a number of regional and national charters are available for vacationers who want to sit back and enjoy the ride.

Bus Tours can be grand 3-7 day excursions, departing from regional larger cities such as Raleigh, NC or Virginia Beach, VA. They can also be commandeered locally, by experienced guides with a rich knowledge of the area, and the ability to take passengers to little-known Outer Banks points of interests.

Regardless of how you roll, a bus tour can give you a complete Outer Banks experience in a few days, or even just a few hours, and all you have to do is sit back, relax, and take in the gorgeous beach scenery.

How Bus Tours Work

If you're beginning your travels well off the coast, look for charters that leave from your nearest city. From Myrtle Beach to Dayton, Ohio, a number of renowned bus lines offer extended trips through the area, generally spending a night or two in each distinct "region" of the Outer Banks. For example, day 1 may be dedicated to the Currituck Beaches, while day 2 and 3 may encompass the central Outer Banks towns of Nags Head , Kill Devil Hills , Kitty Hawk , and Manteo , as well as all the attractions in between. Later in the trip, the bus may head south to Hatteras Island for an afternoon of exploring the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse , or even further to Ocracoke for a walking tour around small and charming Ocracoke Village.

Accommodations and food are generally included, as well as admission to some of the Outer Banks' best attractions, ensuring that all a passenger has to do is climb aboard. Many buses are handicapped-friendly, have bathrooms and even snacks on board, and feature an experienced guide to point out attractions along the way.

For a bus tour while on the islands, local tours depart right from the Outer Banks and can last anywhere from an hour to a full-day of sightseeing, giving passengers an in-depth look at everything the Outer Banks has to offer.

Local Outer Banks tours can include short or long visits to the area's most popular attractions, like the 4 lighthouses scattered from Ocracoke to Corolla, the Wright Brother's Memorial , or the NC Aquarium and Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo. Special "themed" tours are available for groups as well, with a focus on local and regional history, ghost tours, wildlife tours, and even shipwreck themed tours. Before booking, call your local tour company to see what special types of trips are available.

You may also want to consider the particular areas you would like to visit. With so many different communities on the Outer Banks spanning hundreds of miles, it may be best to stick to a tour that covers one region, such as a Hatteras Island tour, a Corolla and Carova Tour, or even a historic Manteo tour. Well before making reservations, determine which areas of the Outer Banks your group would like to discover.

Where to go for Outer Banks Bus Tours

There are many renowned and well-reputed national bus charter tour companies that make trips to the Outer Banks from different terminals all along the East Coast. In fact, many bus tour companies proclaim that the Outer Banks is one of their most popular tour destinations for the area's remote beauty, plentiful attractions, and overall scenic drives.

Be sure and plan your bus tour well in advance, as reservations are required well before the trip, and spots can book up fast. Also, many national tours are seasonal, running from the spring into the fall, so that passengers can enjoy the best weather. Many folks find the cost of a 3-7 day bus tour to be comparable to a stay at a vacation rental home or local motel, and more convenient with all the driving left to a professional.

Locally, while there are a number of tours available, such as 4WD tours of Carova beaches north of Corolla, or small shuttles through historic downtown Manteo, one of the most popular bus tours available are the Hatteras Tours offered by local historian Danny Couch.

These tours are specialized to fit a group's unique requests, and can include comprehensive travels through some of Hatteras Island's most popular regions, or through little known areas beloved by locals. With a database of knowledge on Hatteras Island's 1,000 year history, Hatteras Tours are sure to give even the most seasoned Outer Banks vacationers a newfound wealth of local history and information. These tours are available by appointment, for single passengers and small groups, and generally run seasonally although winter tours may be available upon request as well.

Everyone, from Outer Banks newbies to seasoned vacationers, has seen glossy postcards of the stunning aerial views of the Outer Banks. Now just imagine seeing these vistas up close and personal from the backseat or the cockpit of a small airplane circling over these barrier islands.

Aerial tours are an amazing way to get a new perspective of the Outer Banks. From historic Downtown Manteo to the small villages of Hatteras Island, the most unique way to tour the Outer Banks is from the air.

How Aerial Tours Work

There are two small "airports" on the Outer Banks, in Manteo and in Frisco Village on Hatteras Island ( Billy Mitchell Airport ), and while consisting only of a series of small airstrips, these two locales are the launching points for most all Outer Banks Aerial Tours.

On most aerial tours, only a small number of people can enjoy the ride, generally from 2-4 passengers maximum. The planes may feel small and cramped, however the views are simply unparalleled.

Once arriving at the airstrip and getting a quick briefing on airplane safety, it's time to launch off into the clear blue skies. From here, the aerial tours can last anywhere from quick 20 minute flights to 2-3 hour tours of huge swaths of the Outer Banks. In the central Outer Banks, passengers can explore downtown Manteo from thousands of feet off the ground, and then head for the beaches of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills for a bird's eye view of a lovely beach day.

On Hatteras Island, passengers have their choice of circling around the lighthouse, and then heading south towards Hatteras Village and Ocracoke, or north towards Avon and the tri-villages.

Due to the small size of the plane, as well as the consistently moving bird's eye views, these tours are not for the squeamish or for folks who are scared of heights. Adventurous vacationers, however, will be rewarded with literally sky high views of the East Coast's most gorgeous islands.

A camera is all but required on these adventures, and passengers may want to bring a small bottle of water depending on the length of the tour. On a clear day, be on the lookout for small black shadows in the blue Atlantic waters - these are sharks and other large fish, and many aerial tour passengers descend marveling at just how close these critters are to shore.

Where to go for Outer Banks Aerial Tours

There are a number of reputable companies that offer tour services from Manteo.

In the central Outer Banks, aerial tourists have plenty of options, including OBX biplanes , , Barrier Island Aviation , and even Coastal Helicopters for those who want to veer away from an airplane ride. All of these tours launch from the Manteo Airport and are seasonally available with reservations. Several of these businesses also offer charter service from Norfolk's airport (ORF), ideal for vacationers who fly into the area and want to get to the Outer Banks in a hurry. Be sure and call ahead for availability and rates.

The quiet beaches of Carova are home to the Outer Banks' most famous, and perhaps longest dwelling natives, the Corolla Wild Horses . These mustangs are widely considered to be descendants of the Spanish Mustangs of the 1500s, and lone survivors of Spanish shipwrecks. It is widely believed that these horses washed up upon the Corolla and Carova beaches and thrived for centuries afterwards.

These mustangs can only be seen on the beaches of Carova, a 4WD accessible area only, located north of the village of Corolla. Here, they have 7,500 relatively undisturbed acres to enjoy for themselves, with only occasional Carova visitors to intrude upon their home.

A wild horse tour will take visitors through these desolate beaches in search of these horses, winding through sandy shores and maritime forests, consistently on the lookout for Corolla's most famous residents.

How Wild Horse Tours Work

Corolla Wild Horse tours leave from the village of Corolla, generally close to the 4WD ramp that provides the only access to the beaches of Carova, Swan Beach, and Northern Currituck. In this area of the Outer Banks, only a 4WD vehicle can make the trek, as there are no roads - just sandy trenches along the beach and sandy trails carved through the soundside to quiet vacation rental home communities.

When it comes to how to traverse these 4WD areas, visitors have their choice of driving their own Jeep led by an experienced local guide, or riding along with a tour group on an interestingly rigged 4WD vehicle, such as a tour bus with monster tires or a pick-up with a tour bus-like seating compartment in the back. Essentially, tour-goers have the option to tackle the rough beach driving on their own, or let someone else take the wheel.

Once on board, the tour takes an exploration of the beaches, always in search of wild horses. Often, the mustangs can be spotted in small packs wading through the surf, or peeking out from behind the dune line. Experienced guides recognize the patterns of the mustangs' behavior, and generally have a good idea of the best spots to find them.

Be warned that once the horses are spotted, visitors, (or anyone for that matter), are not allowed to touch, pet, or physically interact with the wild horses. They certainly look and act genteel, however, they are essentially feral animals. Regardless, spotting these wild horses usually leads to phenomenal photo ops, and a camera is all but essential on a wild horse tour.

Folks on the tour will also want to bring sunscreen, and plenty of water and other supplies, as the 4WD beaches of Carova have no grocery stores or shops of any kind - just a handful of homes and plenty of beaches. In the summertime, bug spray may also be a good idea in case the search for the wild horses veers west, towards the soundside marshy areas of Currituck.

Where to go for Outer Banks Wild Horse Tours

There are a handful of tours that offer both self-driven expeditions and guided tours, including Bob's Corolla Wild Horse Tours , which allows visitors to enjoy the scenery in their "one-of-a-kind" open-air vehicles, and Corolla Wild Horse Adventures , which allows tour participants to follow a guide in their own Jeep. Regardless of which tour you decide on, the popularity of Corolla's Wild Horses suggest that reservations should be made well in advance. Tours typically last a couple of hours, with morning and afternoon sessions available. Booking and reservations can be made while on the Outer Banks, or before your vacation online.

One of the best ways to access some of the most remote areas of the Outer Banks is by a 4WD vehicle, or specifically, an ATV. ATVs, also known as "4-wheelers," are small vehicles that resemble a dirt bike with 4 tires, and can fit up to three people each.

Be warned that an ATV tour won't entail high speed racing and jumping off of sand dunes, but with an ATV tour, visitors to the Outer Banks can explore some of the area's most elusive and off-the-beaten-path locales.

How ATV Tours Work

The best place to embark on an ATV tour is the now deserted and completely remote Portsmouth Island . Located south of Ocracoke Island, Portsmouth is one of the most southern islands that make up the string of barrier islands called the Outer Banks.

Portsmouth Island wasn't always so remote, and the island has a rich history of being one of North Carolina's busiest ports in the 1700s and 1800s. Unfortunately, as the inlets gradually filled in and the ports became impassible for large ships, business moved, and the small village of Portsmouth was slowly deserted, with the last two residents leaving in the 1970s.

Today, all of the original buildings that stood on Portsmouth Island , including the small Methodist church, the general store, the US Office, and the local residences, have been preserved by the National Park Service, and visitors on ATVs or on foot are encouraged to travel through and explore the town.

Perhaps the biggest draw for ATV tour participants, however, are the seashells. Portsmouth is quietly known as one of the best locations on the Outer Banks to go shelling , in part because of its isolation, and in part because of its gradual south facing beaches that allow fully in-tact whelks, conchs, and Scotch Bonnets to roll in with the surf in perfect condition.

On an ATV tour, be sure and bring a couple shell bags along with you, (although local ATV tours usually provide extra bags just in case), because after exploring the village, it's time to hit the 13 miles of beaches.

On this stretch, folks on the tour can slowly ride down the coastline with their eyes peeled for freshly washed-in finds along the shore. An experienced guide can give tour participants a deep history of the area, as well as a primer on the types of shells to look out for - Lightning whelks, channel whelks, Florida fighting conchs, Helmet conchs, olive shells and Scotch Bonnets all wash up on these beaches on a regular, if not daily, basis.

Before you go, you'll want to bring plenty of sunscreen and water, as there are limited facilities on Portsmouth Island with just one public restroom on the outskirts of the village, and the sun off the ocean can be much stronger than on the mainland. Because you'll need to ride a small boat to travel across Ocracoke Inlet and access the island and the ATVs, for visitors prone to seasickness, a little Dramamine may come in handy as well.

Where to go for Outer Banks ATV Tours

Portsmouth Island ATVs has been providing ATV tours of Portsmouth Island for year, and departs daily from the Ocracoke Harbor in the summer and shoulder seasons. Tours generally last a half day, or about 4 hours, and include a 20 minutes boat ride to and from the island, a tour of the village, (provided that the mosquitos aren't too brutal), and a couple hours of exploring the gorgeous beaches. Due to popularity, reservations are recommended well in advance, and tourists should arrive at the docks at least 30 minutes before departure. (Visitors who are travelling to Ocracoke Island via ferry should plan accordingly.)

Regardless of how you explore the Outer Banks, a guided tour can give your family a comprehensive exploration of these islands. Even lifelong locals have something to learn about this treasured region of the East Coast, and with centuries of rich history and miles of unparalleled scenery, there is always something new to discover around every winding canal or along every stretch of sandy highway.

On your next Outer Banks vacation, dive into the local scene with a bus tour, kayak cruise, afternoon sail, or a 4WD adventure on the sand, and discover why touring the Outer Banks is a fun and fundamental aspect of any beach vacation.

Northern Beaches

• 4. Southern Shores
• 5. Kitty Hawk
• 6. Kill Devil Hills
• 7. Nags Head

Roanoke Island

• 9. Wanchese

Hatteras Island

• 10. Rodanthe
• 16. Hatteras

Ocracoke Island

• 17. Ocracoke

Outer Banks Map

Events & Family Fun

• Outer Banks Bike Week April 22nd, 2024 - April 26th, 2024
• ESA Mid-Atlantic Regional Surfing Championship April 26th, 2024 - April 28th, 2024
• Scallywag 5K/10K/half-marathon April 27th, 2024 - April 28th, 2024

Jimmy's Seafood Buffet

Home of the Crab Leg & Lobster Buffet for over 24 years! Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet is a great stop for an all you can eat affordable dinner extravaganza. The buffet offers over 100 different items. It even serves Jumbo Alaskan crab legs and Jumbo steamed shrimp, something you will not find on any other buffet in the OBX. The buffet offers a variety of seafood and non seafood options. Try some of Jimmy’s seafood options and load your plate with blackened tuna, Louisiana crawfish, steamed scallops and mussels, fried oysters and deviled crabs. Not in the mood for seafood? Fill your plate with steak, pineapple glazed ham, fried chicken, BBQ ribs, and fettuccini Alfredo to name a few. The buffet also offers a kid section. Let your kids load their plates with chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and corn dog nuggets. Don’t forget dessert! The buffet also offers soft serve ice cream and a plethora of baked goods. 

It’s been 22 years since Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet opened its doors for the first time. Since that inaugural summer, the goal has remained the same: provide customers with a tasty, fresh array of seafood full of Caribbean flavor.

Elizabeth Dowless and her husband Jerry had always worked in restaurants in the Outer Banks, so when the opportunity to open Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet with a couple of friends arose, it was an easy yes. The Dowlesses bought out the business in 2003, excited to turn Jimmy’s into an Outer Banks staple. When Jerry passed away later that year, Dowless knew she wanted to continue pursuing their dream on her own.

Dowless went all in on the concept of a fresh, flavorful seafood buffet and her hard work paid off. Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet is a beloved fixture of Outer Banks dining, with customers returning year after year for the fresh fare.

“Customers keep in contact with me throughout the winter. I get people every day asking me when we’re opening for the season, and customers book their vacations around our opening,” Dowless says. “I absolutely love getting to see familiar faces come back to see us each year. I love seeing them lose their minds over the buffet! Their excitement is what I love most about my job.”

• 252-261-4973

Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum

More than 2,000 shipwrecks sunk off the Coast of North Carolina in what’s called the Graveyard of the Atlantic. With all that history floating around, it was only natural to build a museum to honor and preserve the maritime culture of the Outer Banks. A state-of-the-art structure, the year round museum houses and displays artifacts, and presents a variety of exhibits and interprets the rich maritime culture that includes war, piracy, ghost ships and more. Artifacts include thoseex from the USS Monitor, which sank 16 miles off the Hatteras coast. The lobby features the stunning and original, 1854, First Order Lens from the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Current hibits include those on piracy and the Civil War on Hatteras Island.

• 252-986-2995

KEES Vacations

KEES Vacations offers the best Outer Banks rentals for family vacations, romantic weekend getaways and groups of all sizes looking for the perfect OBX rental for their stay. When booking with KEES Vacations, travelers can expect excellence in service and a one-of-a-kind OBX vacation experience. With one of the largest OBX vacation rental property inventories available, travelers are sure to find the best Outer Banks rentals with KEES Vacations. Featured property amenities include on-site pools & hot tubs, contactless check-in, linens included on every reservation, cabana services & more. Looking for a short stay? We have those, too! Ask about FlexStay for your next trip. 

• Point Harbor
• 866-316-1843

Head south over the Herbert C. Bonner bridge, or take the Hatteras / Ocracoke ferry from Ocracoke Island, and you'll land on the shores of Hatteras Island.

Fish Heads Bar and Grill

Rustic waterfront pub at a fishing pier with a large deck for seafood eats, draft beer & live music. Fish Heads Bar and Grill is THE tiki bar of the Outer Banks. Located at Mile Post 18.5 in Nags Head, we offer a view that is second to none! Check us out!

• 252-441-5740

Best Surf Fishing Gear for 2024

Once you have your coastal recreational fishing license in hand, it’s time to start thinking about gear. Anglers will find tons of options when it comes to equipment for casting into the surf, from custom designed rods and reels at local tackle shops, to name brand varieties that are designed for multiple areas along the coastline. Here are just a few of the most popular gear options for surf fishermen. Keep in mind that there are endless options available, and your local bait and tackle store staff will be happy to point you in the right direction if you have any questions about what you’ll need for successful surf fishing in any given area along the North Carolina coastline.

Southern Shores Realty

Southern Shores Realty offers over 350 Outer Banks rentals from Corolla to S. Nags Head.  We've been an Outer Banks tradition since 1947, providing families just like yours with memories that last a lifetime.  Take a moment to search through our extensive selection of Outer Banks rentals, choose your favorite, and book online today!

• Southern Shores
• 252-261-2000

Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station

The Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station is one of Rodanthe's greatest treasures. This historical lifesaving station has been a popular attraction for Hatteras Island visitors for decades, and stands on the very edge of the small town of Rodanthe. Over the years, this station has been battered by hurricanes, ocean and soundside flooding, and ferocious gusts of winds, and yet it is still standing, and serves as a proud reminder of Hatteras Island and the Outer Banks' rich lifesaving history.

• 252-987-1552

Pizzazz Pizza Company

Pizzazz Pizza now has FOUR convenient Outer Banks locations in Grandy, Corolla, Duck & Nags Head. Made with only the freshest ingredients and finest meat toppings! Dine in, carry out or delivery (from Corolla to South Nags Head; from Powell's Point to Aydlett).

• 252-261-1111
• 252-453-2800

Canadian Hole - Haulover

Canadian Hole may be an unfamiliar term to the typical, laid-back Hatteras Islander vacationer, but to windsurfers around the world, the phrase invokes thoughts of an exact, postcard-perfect locale on the Outer Banks, where windsurfing and water sports conditions are truly at their global best, and any given day is a fantastic day to enjoy the ride.

Sun Realty offers the Best Selection of Vacation Rentals on the Outer Banks. Our large selection of Outer Banks rentals means you can choose from a wide range of amenities, including private swimming pools, hot tubs, theater rooms, game rooms, pet friendly lodging and more! Our properties span the entire OBX coast including Carova, Corolla, Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and South Nags Head. On Hatteras Island, we proudly offer beach cottages in Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras Village.

• 252-261-7911
• 252-453-8822
• 252-987-2766
• Kill Devil Hills
• 252-441-7033
• 252-261-1152
• 252-995-5865

Tour Details

Moscow metro tour: architectural styles of the subway.

Duration: 2 hours

Categories: Culture & History, Sightseeing

This metro tour of Russia’s capital and most populous city, Moscow, is your chance to get a unique insight into the beautiful and impressive architecture of the city's underground stations. Admire their marble walls and high ceilings representing Stalin's desire for glory after World War 2, and see first-hand how the interiors change with the rise of new political eras. Your guide will lead you through the complex network, which is one of the most heavily used rapid transit systems worldwide, with over two billion travelers in 2011.

Opened in 1935, Moscow’s underground system, now 190 miles (305 km) long with 185 stations, is today one the largest and most heavily used rapid transit systems in the world. On this Moscow metro tour, discover the impressive architecture of Moscow’s underground stations and learn how they reflect the Soviet era.

Getting around by metro, your local guide will take you through parts of Moscow’s infamous history. Stop at stations built during the time of the USSR (Soviet Union) that are praised as one of the most extravagant architectural projects from Stalin’s time. After World War 2, he was keen on establishing Stalinist architecture to represent his rising regime and a recognized empire. Learn how when his successor started the de-Stalinization of the former Soviet Union in 1953, the extravagancy of the architecture was toned down.

Discover how the unique character of each station reflected several different eras. While stations like Kievskaya and Slavyansky Bulvar have pompous halls and high stucco ceilings brimming with extravagant decorations, those built later, like Volzhskaya, are lightly adorned with sparse furnishings. Architect Alexey Dushkin and painter Alexander Deyneka were just two of the many artists who made these magnificent landmarks possible.

Revel in Moscow's glory days, as well as the years of scarcity, on this fascinating Moscow metro experience. Conclude your tour at one of the central stations in Moscow. If you're lucky, you may even find the secret entrance to the unconfirmed Metro-2, a parallel underground system used by the government -- a mystery which has neither been denied nor confirmed today.

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Culture Shock Rating

We have a wide range of tours designed to give you an insight into the destination you're travelling in and there is something for everybody. The culture shock ratings considers the destination visited, transport used, activities undertaken and that "Wow, I'm really not at home now!" factor. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our gradings is as follows…

This is the least confronting of our tour range. Transport used on the trip is either private or a very comfortable public option, the activities included are usually iconic sites and locations that are not all too confronting.

The tour can include a mix of private and public transport providing a level of comfort that is slightly below what you would experience at home. Sites visited are usually iconic sites, tours can also include market visits, visits to communities etc that provide the traveller with a fantastic insight into destination.

Expect to rough it for parts of this tour, whether it's a packed public bus where you are forced to stand, a visit to a local market, a local community, you are sure to have an experience that is very different from what you're used to at home.

The comforts of your home town and the environment you are used to are more of a rarity. Expect some challenging transport options, visits to local sites and areas that don't resemble anything at home.

You're out there in the global community! You are likely to be exposed to the elements, travel in whatever means of transport is available and basically take it as it comes, whatever comes! It can be tough.

Physical Rating

Our physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the tour. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our gradings is as follows…

These tours have very limited physical activity. Usually climbing in and out of the transport provided, walking through sites, markets etc included in the itinerary.

These tours have a bit of physical activity but nothing that should challenge you too much. This could be climbing on and off public transport through to a walk through the destination you're travelling in, they can include walking only tours or a combination of walking and transport.

These tours involve a bit of physical activity from walking up and down hills in the destination you're travelling in or the surrounding areas. Climbing on and off local transport or riding a bike up to 30 kms along predominantly flat terrain or jumping in a kayak for a gentle paddle on flat water.

These Tours will provide you with some solid physical activity. Whether its bike riding, walking, trekking, kayaking or riding on public transport you will need to have a good level of fitness to enjoy this tour.

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. These tours are our most challenging and involve some serious walking, hiking or bike riding. Can involve step climbs by foot or pedal and some challenging public transport options in the destination you are travelling.

Luxury Rating

Some trips are like a stroll on the beach, while others have you trekking alpine passes. Some of you thrive on camping out on the savannah, while others may prefer a hot shower and a comfortable bed in a lodge. Follow the grading systems below to find the right trip for you.

To help you choose the trip that's right for you, we've broken all of our trips down into four service levels. Measuring the comfort level of the accommodation and transport. So whether you're travelling on a budget and want to save money by using public transport, or prefer upgraded accommodation and are happy to pay a little more, then we have a level for you.

This is grassroots travel at its most interesting

Authentic experiences with some of the comforts of home

For those who like to travel in comfort

All the unique experiences wrapped up with a gold ribbon