4WD beach driving tips for the OBX

Horse and car on the beach in Corolla. Photo by Susan M Carter
Horse and car on the beach in Corolla. Photo by Susan M Carter

Wild Spanish Mustangs, deserted beaches and a glimpse of the Outer Banks was like before it was developed greet visitors to the Carova area of the the Currituck Banks. There are no roads north of Corolla, so knowing how to drive on the beach is a must. Here, Currituck County Tourism shares their list of tips on driving on a beach safely with horses and visitors present. While written specifically for the northern beaches, these tips will serve you well in any 4WD situations on the OBX.

Colonial Spanish Mustangs on the beach in Carova. Photo, Corolla Wild Horse Fund.
Colonial Spanish Mustangs on the beach in Carova. Photo, Corolla Wild Horse Fund.

“You are more than welcome to enjoy our northern beaches via 4WD vehicle. Driving on the Corolla beach is a unique experience and requires drivers to take many safety measures.”

Here are a few things to keep in mind while driving on the northern beaches in order to make your experience enjoyable and safe:

  • All vehicles to be driven on the beach and roads behind the dunes must be registered, properly licensed, and insured.
  • If your vehicle is not equipped with 4WD, do not attempt to drive on the beach.
  • Fill your gas tank before driving onto the beach. There are no gas stations located in the four-wheel drive area.
  • Well before approaching the beach ramp (four-wheel-drive area), stop in a legal parking area and adjust the air pressure to 15-20 psi in all four tires. This will provide more surface contact with the sand.”

[box type=”bio”] The 4WD area of Carova is wonderful to visit, so read the rest of these beach driving tips HERE. [/box]

[box type=”info”] Download the Currituck Outer Banks Guide to Beach Driving HERE![/box]