Explore Your Way: Don’t miss our checklist to help make the most of a trip to Corolla this winter. Click here to get a printable guide to Corolla.
A boardwalk of wooden planks curves and twists through Currituck Banks Reserve, inviting visitors into a lush maritime forest. As families and couples stroll along the one-third-mile boardwalk, the rustling of winter coats mingles with the clicks of cameras capturing the tranquil beauty of Corolla’s chilly woodland. Children’s laughter fills the air as they dart ahead, eager to spot snow geese and tundra swans drifting across Currituck Sound. At the boardwalk’s end, Erik Alnes, northern sites manager for the NC Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve, is a familiar figure. “The best view overlooking the sound is right here,” he says. “It’s a serene spot for watching wildlife and soaking in the quieter side of the coast.”
Familiar with Corolla’s summer buzz? The off-season reveals a serene change of pace. From tranquil strolls along quiet beaches to exploring nature trails in peaceful solitude, this coastal village welcomes both newcomers and longtime visitors to create lasting memories in a setting that feels both timeless and new. Don your coziest sweater and pack light — these Currituck County destinations provide an ideal backdrop for a January getaway.
The glow from the first-order Fresnel lens of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse is visible for up to 18 nautical miles. photograph by Daniel Pullen
For a peaceful escape into nature, explore the Currituck Banks Reserve. Start at the boardwalk, which stretches a little more than a quarter mile through the maritime forest to a viewing platform with stunning views of Currituck Sound. From there, venture onto the Maritime Forest Trail, a more rugged one-and-a-half-mile path out and back, that loops through the forest. While sightings are not guaranteed, winter provides the best chance to see migrating waterfowl at the reserve. Informative displays along the trails provide insights into local wildlife and ecology, and the crisp sea breeze adds to the tranquil atmosphere as you explore. “Use the benches along our trails to pause and enjoy the views and sounds,” Alnes says. “It’s especially beautiful if you can catch it at sunset.”
Less than two miles away, a captivating glimpse into Corolla’s maritime heritage awaits. Since 1875, Currituck Beach Lighthouse has been a beacon for sailors navigating the coastal waters. While the climb to the top remains closed until mid-March, the adjacent picturesque Historic Corolla Park remains open with views of the lighthouse to admire and photograph during the winter season.
On the other side of Historic Corolla Park, visitors will find the most opulent of all of Currituck County’s famed hunting clubs, Whalehead — now considered one of the country’s finest examples of Art Nouveau style. The estate was completed in 1925 as a winter retreat for industrialist Edward Collings Knight Jr. and his wife, Marie-Louise LeBel. The couple shared a passion for hunting waterfowl and spending winters on the Outer Banks. A century later, the restored mansion turned museum continues to offer breathtaking views of Currituck Sound and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. And, like the Knights and their guests, visitors are still beguiled by this coastal haven. Whalehead closes for maintenance for several weeks each winter but reopens to visitors in mid-February. In the meantime, you can still roam the grounds around the palatial hunting club.
Explore the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge, where wild Banker horses roam freely. These heritage horses, descendants of those brought by early explorers, traverse more than 7,600 protected acres. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund’s dedicated conservation efforts help ensure their continued prosperity. For a memorable experience, visit in winter when the refuge is quieter and the mustangs flaunt their impressive winter coats. “We’re deeply committed to caring for the horses and ensuring they remain wild and accessible to the public,” says Meg Puckett, director of herd management at Corolla Wild Horse Fund. “Winter is a really neat time to see them — it’s quieter, there’s fewer people, and if you’ve seen them in the summertime, you’ll notice they look very different because of the way they grow their coats.”
For a close-up encounter, book a Corolla Jeep Adventures tour, which covers approximately 25 to 30 miles of off-road terrain. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll learn about the local ecology and the horses’ fascinating history, all while keeping a respectful (and lawful) 50-foot distance. “The big advantage is there is hardly anybody out here on the beach during the colder months, which means less congestion on the routes,” says Dave Eubank, manager at Corolla Jeep Adventures. “Just remember to bundle up!”
In January, there’s a good chance you’ll have the beach all to yourself — except for maybe the occasional pelican or sea gull. photograph by Daniel Pullen
With its wide array of public beach access points, Corolla offers a spacious and serene retreat, ideal for carefree days of frolicking in the surf, building sandcastles, or wandering along the unspoiled shoreline. As winter arrives, the beach transforms into a treasure hunter’s paradise. Increased storm activity brings a diverse array of shells to the shore, making winter an ideal time for beachcombing. Look for treasures like starfish, whelks, and sea glass, which often sparkle like hidden gems against the winter sands.
“After a good winter storm like a nor’easter, you’ll often find whelks washed up in the hundreds in little sections of the beach,” says Hadley Twiddy, an Outer Banks native and owner of the Corolla Village Inn and the Corolla outdoor touring company Coastal Explorations. “People are amazed when they see how many can show up after a storm, and it’s a fantastic time for visitors to collect them.”
To make the most of your beachcombing adventure, prepare for the winter chill by dressing in layers and bringing the right equipment. “Even if it’s 55 degrees,” Twiddy says, “the wind and humidity can make it feel much colder. Wear layers, bring a windbreaker, and use a sturdy container for your finds, as whelks can quickly fill up a small bucket.”
Between the inviting porch and fireside living room, the Corolla Village Inn welcomes guests who want to kick back in the heart of the village. photograph by Daniel Pullen
When you’re ready to settle in, the Twiddy family has you covered. Founded in 1978 by Hadley’s father, Doug, Twiddy & Company began with a handful of listings in Duck and Corolla. As tourism grew, Doug turned his focus to preserving Corolla’s historical character by restoring old homes and structures, including moving and renovating a historic lifesaving station to serve as the company’s real estate sales office for many years. Today, run by his sons, Clark and Ross, the family-owned business manages more than 1,100 privately owned rental homes on the Outer Banks. Booking in the off-season can offer significant savings, with rates up to 75 percent lower than during the peak summer season.
“Many of our vacation homes come equipped with fireplaces, creating a warm and inviting environment for guests to unwind,” says Miles Daniels, head of communications for Twiddy & Company. “The fully equipped kitchens also make it easy to prepare hearty meals at home, or guests can take advantage of the restaurants that remain open through the season.”
Escape the winter blues inside the sunshine-yellow Uncle Ike’s Sandbar and Grill — where seafood nachos and bacon-wrapped scallops await. photograph by Daniel Pullen
While most restaurants close their doors for the winter season, Uncle Ike’s Sandbar and Grill stays open, offering a menu of comforting dishes that are sure to warm you on even the chilliest days. Complement your meal with a hot coffee to keep cozy.
For a laid-back meal, Corolla Pizza & Deli is a local favorite, providing hand-tossed and Sicilian-style pizzas, strombolis, calzones, fresh salads, and subs. The joint prides itself on quality, crafting piping hot stone oven pizzas with dough made in-house daily. A standout is the Monte Calvo, featuring an olive oil glaze topped with fresh Roma tomatoes, provolone and mozzarella cheese, and sprinkled with fresh garlic and spices.
Just down the road, Corolla Bowls offers lunch bowls and vegetarian take-out options — from the sweet and sour shrimp bowl and pad thai to the vegan fried rice bowl and lo mien — well-suited for a warm winter meal.
Tip: Reach out to establishments in advance of heading out, as operating hours may vary during the off-season.
In January, Corolla’s shopping scene operates at a slower rhythm, with a few charming spots open to explore. Enjoy the quieter shopping experience and discover a few local gems:
Begin your adventure at the Island Bookstore in Historic Corolla Village. Here, you can cozy up with a good read and peruse their extensive collection, which spans fiction, cookbooks, travel, and local interest. Beyond books, browse through their selection of puzzles, greeting cards, and stationery.
A short drive brings you to Farmer’s Daughter, where you’ll find an array of clothing, jewelry, and accessories, as well as wall décor and Yeti products. The off-season offers a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to find that perfect item at a leisurely pace.
Next on your itinerary? The Cotton Gin in Timbuck II Shopping Village. Its flagship shop in Jarvisburg, once a functioning cotton gin in the 20th century, has transformed into a beloved gift store with three locations. Explore their selection of fine gifts, beachwear, and seasonal souvenirs while soaking in the nostalgic ambiance.
Kitty Hawk Kites, a leading name in adventure and retail, is nearby. With an impressive range of toys, flags, wind art, and more, this store offers something special for everyone in the family. Their Monterey Plaza location will be open in January, ready to offer you an eclectic selection of one-of-a-kind gifts and fun finds.
No need to cram every moment or make elaborate plans: In Corolla, whether you’re scheduling a guided tour or enjoying a quiet walk along the shore, you’ll find the understated elegance of winter on the Outer Banks awaiting you.
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