Vacation on the Outer Banks 4x4 Beach

Imagine shifting into 4-wheel drive and cruising on the beach to reach your vacation home, ocean waves lapping the shore to your right and sand dunes to your left. This is the Outer Banks 4×4 beach, an area of the OBX unlike any other nearby coastal town. There are no paved roads, shops, or restaurants, as the pristine beach is the main attraction. We love the 4×4 area for many reasons, and here are a few of our favorites.

Embrace Serenity Explore with Fascination Where to Stay Let the Adventure Begin

Relax and Unwind

The peace and quiet of the 4×4 beach allows you to decompress in an uncomplicated atmosphere. Listen to the waves lap the shore, breathe in the salty ocean breeze, and listen to the seagulls. Immerse yourself in the unique coastal environment, one of the Outer Banks’ last and least developed areas. The absence of all commercial activity makes the off-road beaches such an exceptional vacation destination – the ultimate place to relax!

Get Closer to Nature

Take a stroll along the beach and see what kind of shells or beach glass you can find.

In addition to the pristine oceanfront, the uncomplicated 4×4 area comprises dense maritime forests, marshy soundside coves, and protected nature preserves.

Home to the Corolla Wild Horses, staying on the 4×4 beach makes the extraordinary possibility of catching a glimpse of these unique animals practically commonplace, whether on the beach or in the yard of your 4×4 vacation rental. There are fences at both the north and south end of the 4×4 area that keeps the wild horses contained and protected.

Seals have been known to rest on the 4×4 beach during cooler months. Whales have been spotted passing through, and seeing a pod of dolphins swim by is common.

Why Vacation on the Outer Banks 4×4 Beaches?

It’s no secret that the Outer Banks is a haven for bird watchers. Currituck National Wildlife Refuge on the 4×4 offers the opportunity to observe many different species, including marsh birds, shorebirds, and bald eagles.

With little light pollution, the dark skies above the 4×4 beach are perfect for stargazing.

Where to Stay on the 4×4 Beaches

The 4×4 beach starts in Corolla, at the access ramp where the paved road ends, and extends approximately 12 miles to the North Carolina/Virginia border. There are several different communities within the 4×4 beach, mostly defined by how far north they are from the access ramp. Carova Beach is the northernmost and most well-known community and offers history lovers a glimpse of its storied past.

One of the last and least developed areas of the Outer Banks, vacation rental homes on the 4×4 beaches range greatly in size, available amenities, and cost. This special area of the OBX is the perfect vacation spot for families looking to spend more time together, artists seeking inspiration and solitude, and those seeking a more adventurous beach vacation. We encourage you to experience the hidden treasure of the Outer Banks…the untouched, wide-open 4×4 beach.

A Treasured Sea (V12383)

You’re traveling with a small group of friends or family members

There are plenty of single-family homes on the 4×4 beach, from rustic three-bedroom cottages to homes with five or six bedrooms with amenities such as a private pool.

It's a Sandemic (V12133)

You’re on vacation with multiple families and friends

There are many large, multi-family vacation homes on the 4×4 beach, with amenities such as a theater room, extra-large kitchen, and a private pool.

Wizardry by the Sea (V22136)

You’re bringing your dog

Dogs are allowed on the 4×4 beach year-round, making it an ideal place for an OBX vacation with your dog. There are many pet friendly 4×4 vacation homes to choose from.

You’re planning a destination wedding on the OBX

For a truly unique Outer Banks wedding experience, hold your wedding on the 4×4. Designated 4×4 special event homes can serve as your event site and guest accommodations, allowing for a resort-like destination wedding experience. These two homes are also great choices for family reunions or corporate retreats.

The Chesapeake (R11441)

The Chesapeake is located on the oceanfront less than two miles from the paved road. This pet-friendly home offers 24 bedrooms, a pavilion, and a pool complex in the middle of it all.

Hill Runner (R11495)

Hill Runner is on the oceanfront in the dunes of Penny’s Hill, about 2.5 miles from the paved road. The 18-bedroom home features unobstructed views of both the ocean and the sound. Next door, The Dune Buggy can be reserved as well for a total of 32 bedrooms.

How to Drive on the 4×4 Beach

Shifting into 4-wheel drive and cruising along the oceanfront is an unforgettable experience. While driving on the beach may sound intimidating at first, our tips and tricks for staying on the 4×4 area, as well as driving on the 4×4 beach will surely prepare you for a smooth trip. For those in your group who do not have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, parking passes are available to purchase in advance to park at our Corolla office.

Top Selections

Oceanfront Rentals

Pet-Friendly Rentals

Beach Houses

Why Vacation on the Outer Banks 4×4 Beaches?