- How long is the Outer Banks Coastal Drive: Corolla to Ocracoke route?
- This route takes 10 days taking in 6 stops.
- Where does this route start and end?
- The route runs from Corolla, North Carolina to Ocracoke, North Carolina in Outer Banks, North Carolina, United States.
- When is the best time to travel this route?
- The best time to travel this route is April to October.
- How active is this route?
- Activity level: Easy-going. Easy-going and accessible for most fitness levels.
- What transport do I need for this route?
- Any self-driven vehicle works well for this route.
- What budget do I need for this route?
- Mid-range spending — expect comfortable accommodation and a mix of dining options.
- What type of accommodation suits this route?
- Mixed accommodation works well along this route.
- What is the pace of this trip?
- Relaxed — plenty of time to linger at each stop.
- What type of trip is this?
- This route is well-suited to: Coastal, Beach, Scenic, Classic road trip, Nature.
- Are there any practical tips for this route?
- Only 4WD vehicles can use the sand north of Corolla. Take a guided horse tour rather than driving it yourself, and stay 50 feet from the horses. Visit the Wright Brothers Memorial early to beat the midday heat and crowds. The visitor centre has full-scale Flyer replicas and ranger talks. Climb Jockey's Ridge about 90 minutes before sunset; bring water and footwear for hot sand. Hang-gliding lessons book up fast in summer. Catch The Lost Colony outdoor drama on a summer evening and book ahead. The aquarium suits a rainy afternoon or families with younger children. Lighthouse climbs run roughly mid-April to mid-October; mornings are coolest. Fuel and groceries thin out south of here, so stock up in Avon or Buxton. The Hatteras-Ocracoke car ferry is free and takes about an hour; arrive early in summer. Leaving south, reserve the longer mainland ferries in advance.