Carolina Day Trip: Insider Tips for Visiting Currituck and the NC Outer Banks

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	Currituck Outer Banks, NC



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Carolina Day Trip:
Insider Tips for Visiting Currituck and the NC Outer Banks

hy Currituck and the Outer Banks? The area's filled with history, fun, outdoor entertainment, and lots to do, including miles of sun-drenched beaches and the chance to glimpse a wild Spanish mustang.

Drive to the Outer Banks on Highway 158, cross over the bridge and turn left. Or, reach the Outer Banks via Highway 64 and the Manteo bridge.

You'll feel instantly transported to another world where sea and sand are in charge. Enjoy the drive through Southern Shores, Duck and Sanderling and stop along the way to explore a tiny boutique, or deserted stretch of beach.

When you arrive at the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, stop and be grateful for all those spin classes. Your hard work will be rewarded as you climb 214 steps to the top of this majestic, red brick lighthouse, which was first lit in 1875. It's located in Currituck Heritage Park.


hen, take a stroll through the historic Corolla Village, and plan to stop for lunch at someplace like Lovie's Kitchen Table. You'll enjoy locally prepared salads, sandwiches and wraps, plus freshly baked breads, desserts, cheese and chocolate. Next, it's on to the Whalehead Club, one of the most spectacular landmarks on the Currituck Outer Banks. You'll enjoy a self-guided audio tour, or perhaps more personalized attention with a docent. This 1920s club has been fully restored and is worth a visit, including these tours: Behind the Scenes, Nuts and Bolts, Children's Treasure Hunt and Legends, Lore and Ghosts. Tour prices range from $7-$14 and reservations are required for specialty tours. If you're itching to pull the golf clubs out of the trunk, consider the Currituck Club, a fabulous championship course rated one of the "10 Best New Places You Can Play," by Golf Magazine. The day may be waning, but there's still exploring to be done, so find a room to suit your personal style. Trisha's Bed & Breakfast is an 1852 Victorian style Bed & Breakfast that offers a large breakfast. It's back on the mainland, about 40 minutes from the Outer Banks. You may want to consider staying a bit closer to the ocean and if so, the Inn at Corolla Light beckons. With 43 luxurious accommodations (many with fireplaces and whirlpools) you can enjoy sunset views. Located in the Corolla Light Resort Village, the Inn is ideal for a romantic getaway. There are also a number of reputable realty companies to help you find a home to rent, including Twiddy & Company, Sun Realty and Village Realty. Day two: Up early to take a tour and try to catch a glimpse of the wild horses. Or, go kayaking, surfing, wine tasting, or fishing. If it all sounds too strenuous, pull out a fun novel, slather on the sunscreen, and take your cooler to the beach. One thing's certain. You'll meet friendly people, find lots of eye candy, and enjoy a getaway that's as laid-back as you want. Recommended Reading Day Trips Directory



About the Author Katherine O. Pettit has worked as a writer, magazine editor, printer and public relations consultant. The Columbia resident has published more than 250 articles in magazines and newspapers. Her writing explores a variety of subjects including travel, lifestyles, business and management.