Just north of Corolla, NC, is Currituck Banks Reserve, a nature preserve for environmental research. Escape the touristy part of North Carolina, and explore the natural beauty of Currituck County. For a peaceful afternoon of walking, hiking, or birdwatching, this nature preserve is a must.
Then, after a day of fresh air and incredible wildlife experiences, dine at some of the best restaurants on the Outer Banks. We’ve created a free Outer Banks Vacation Guide so that you know where to find all of the best restaurants, outdoor recreation, and entertainment on the barrier islands.
Explore the Currituck Banks Reserve
About North Carolina Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve
The program is part of N.C. Division of Coastal Management and NOAA. Researchers, teachers, and students use the 10 protected reserve sites as a living laboratory for research and education. Altogether, the program protects 44,000 acres of estuarine land and water habitats!
Currituck Banks Reserve Hiking Trail
Explore Currituck Banks Reserve with a hike on the pet-friendly hiking trail. Get your steps in with a peaceful stroll through the maritime forests and along a lake.
Along the way, you will see a boardwalk that jets out into the water, and you’re likely to find interesting birds in the trees and the brackish marshes, so you might want to bring your binoculars for birdwatching!
And, what’s an OBX outdoor adventure without wild horses? Keep an eye out for some of the mustangs that graze around the trees as well.
The reserve is a perfect place to spend time with the family because the trail is handicapped accessible and stroller friendly. Going out to explore nature is always a great way to get kids interested in wildlife!
More Outdoor Activities on the Outer Banks
There are numerous ways to enjoy the great outdoors on the Outer Banks. Some of our favorite things to do include kayak tours in Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest, or fishing off of a pier!
Being that our town is a coastal getaway, it’s essential to spend some of your days out in the ocean! Meet the friendly dolphins of the North Carolina coast with Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tours near Nags Head!
Dolphins aren’t the only cool animal you can spot from the beach! The shores of OBX are known for their wild horses. You can go on a one-hour horseback riding journey right on the beach!
Relax in an OBX Vacation Rental
Kick your feet up after a day of hiking in the serene forests of NC in a luxury Outer Banks vacation rental. Paramount Destinations offers stunning accommodations with waterfront views and premier amenities.
In addition to being just steps from the Atlantic Ocean, our homes also feature private pools, stylish decor, outdoor hangout areas, game rooms, and more.
We accommodate small or large families ranging from condos to large vacation homes for nearly 30 people! You can choose from rentals in Corolla, The Currituck Club, Duck, and Southern Shores.
Browse our beachfront vacation rentals, and start planning your dream vacation today!
