Last Updated: May 29, 2023
Published: April 25, 2023
This content is written for informational purposes only. All opinions are my own. View our full disclaimer policy.
If you are planning a trip to Corolla Beach in the Outer Banks, North Carolina, you are in for an unforgettable experience. This beautiful destination offers an opportunity to witness the wild horses that roam the area. To ensure the best possible experience, here are seven helpful tips for seeing the Outer Banks wild horses.
1. To Tour or Not to Tour
You may be wondering, Can you see wild horses in Corolla Beach without a tour, or can you see the Corolla wild horses for free? If you have a capable four-wheel-drive vehicle, I highly recommend driving through Corolla Beach in search of wild horses yourself. It can be a really fun time, not only driving on the beach but also searching for the Outer Banks wild horses with just your friends and family. If you end up not touring, you can still see the guided tours driving around, which can help provide suggestions of where to go next in your wild horse sightseeing adventure.
On the other hand, if you opt for a guided wild horse tour, you will have access to local experts to take you throughout Corolla Beach. Since they have extensive knowledge about the horses’ habits and preferred locations, you may have better luck seeing the Outer Banks wild horses than if you were by yourself. They will also be able to take you on a more educational and informative tour, providing you with fun facts along the way.
2. Deflate Your Tires & Drive Cautiously
If you’re planning a visit to see the wild horses on Corolla Beach in North Carolina without a tour, it’s important to remember to deflate your tires before driving out onto the sand. The wild horses roam freely on the beach, and the sand can be quite soft, making it difficult for vehicles to navigate. Deflating your tires slightly can help increase the surface area of your tires, allowing them to better grip the sand and avoid getting stuck. It’s also important to remember to drive slowly and cautiously, as the horses are accustomed to being around humans but can still be easily spooked. Taking these precautions will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and the horses.
Also, if you are driving your personal vehicle onto Corolla Beach, it is best to be prepared with snacks and beach supplies. Since you need to deflate your tires before driving on the beach, you will want to make the trip worth your while. You won’t be as patient when trying to find the Outer Banks wild horses if you are hungry. I would recommend packing some snacks and beach supplies to ensure you can last the day.
3. Maintain a Safe Distance & Be Respectful
It is always important to remember that these are wild animals and should not be approached too closely for their safety and yours. You should stay at least 50 feet away at all times. Even though many people vacation at Corolla Beach, you are staying within wild horse territory, and it is crucial to respect their habitat.
4. Bring Binoculars
Since you need to maintain a safe distance from the Outer Banks wild horses, it would be a good idea to bring binoculars or a camera with a good zoom lens. These will allow you to capture the beauty of the wild horses without disturbing them. If you have a two-in-one binocular camera, even better!
I honestly wish I had brought binoculars myself when I visited Corolla Beach, NC. They definitely would have come in handy.
5. Check More Than Just the Beach
The first time I went to Corolla Beach in search of wild horses, we completely missed out and did not find any. I honestly started to think the wild horses of the Outer Banks were a myth. However, the second time we went, it felt like we saw horses almost everywhere we looked, including babies! I will never forget the first time I saw wild horses. I actually screamed with joy, then I quickly collected myself not to scare them away. It is definitely a sight I will never forget!
So, I highly recommend that if you miss out on seeing wild horses the first time, take a second trip back to try your chances again!
6. Plan Your Timing
The best time to schedule your trip is during the warmer months, preferably between April and October, as the horses are more active during these times. Once you plan what months you are going, you may be wondering what the best time of day to see wild horses at Corolla Beach is. When I visited, I was told the best time of day to go is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the horses are more active. They mentioned the Outer Banks wild horses typically like to stay hidden in the shade during midday.
7. Be Patient & Don’t Give Up!
Remember to be patient and with a little luck and perseverance, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable encounter with the wild horses of Corolla Beach, NC. If you miss out on seeing wild horses one day, I highly recommend you take another trip back. You never know when you will stumble upon some wild horses, and it could take another visit before you spot one. Luckily, Corolla Beach is a beautiful spot to spend some extra time at while you are visiting the Outer Banks.
Good Luck in Seeing Outer Banks Wild Horses!
I hope these seven tips help you see the Outer Banks wild horses for yourself! It truly was an experience I will never forget. If you are interested in learning more about how to see wild horses in the Outer Banks, I talked more about it in another blog.
Please leave a comment below if any of these tips helped you or if you have already seen the Corolla wild horses. I would love to chat about them!
