Travel Day Itinerary: Early Arrival Options in Corolla, NC

If you arrive before the property is ready, start your Corolla vacation early with these top attractions!

Welcome to the serene paradise of Corolla, North Carolina! You've just arrived, and while your check-in time might still be a bit away, there's no reason to let a single moment go to waste. Corolla has so much to offer, and we've got some fantastic ideas to help you make the most of your early arrival.

A quick reminder: Parking, dropping bags, or using the outdoor features at your rental home prior to your check-in time impedes vendors from providing you important services like cleaning, pool service, landscaping, trash removal, and more. Ultimately, this negatively impacts turnover quality and your check in time. If you’re a guest of Go Your Own Wave, please know that we’ll alert you and activate your keyless entry code ahead of schedule if the home is ready early. Thank you for allowing us the time and space needed to provide you the best service possible.

Now, let’s dive in!

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1. Visit the Beach

First things first, head to the beach! With some strategic packing of your vehicle, it’s possible to enjoy some time on the soft, sandy shores of Corolla. Kick off your shoes, spread out your beach towel, and let the sound of the waves wash your stress away. If you're staying at Go Your Own Wave, the two closest beach accesses with parking lots are Bonito (927 Bonito St) and Sailfish (877 Whalehead Dr). They’re both just a couple of blocks from our house.

2. Savor Local Flavors

Treat your taste buds to the delicious local cuisine at any of Corolla's many restaurants. From fresh catches to coastal flavors, the dining options are sure to satisfy any palate. Some of our favorites lunch spots include

• The Salty Rim—new in 2024; tacos, margs, and more with outdoor seating! There’s plenty of parking, an ADA beach access, and public restrooms. Historic Corolla Park is right across the street, offering lots of shade and green space for your pup to get a break from the heat. If you’re the type who likes to “cross the bridge early to beat traffic,” this is the perfect spot to hang out until your rental is ready!

• Bacchus Wine and Gourmet—really tasty sandwiches made for takeout with a few outdoor seats

• Bernie's Brother—one of Corolla’s larger restaurants with two stories of indoor and outdoor seating and kid-friendly atmosphere

• Butcher Block—another great sandwich spot with Boar’s Head meats and cheeses that offers online ordering to eliminate the wait

• Corolla Bowls—if you’re craving something a bit more exotic, head to this casual spot in Timbuck II for creative Thai bowls

• Corolla Village BBQ—an order-at-the-counter spot at Historic Corolla Park with delicious offerings. Great no frills option where everyone can check out the grounds and stretch their legs. (Note: In the process of rebuilding following a 2024 structure fire)

• Uncle Ike's Sandbar—another kid-friendly sit down options

3. Grab a Beverage

After a long day of traveling, you deserve a reward. Whether you're looking for a tropical cocktail, a glass of wine, a cold beer, coffee, or a smoothie, you'll find plenty of options to suit your taste. Here are some we recommend:

• Corolla Beer Garden

• Whalehead Brewery—great pizza too!

• Northern Outer Banks Brewery

• Wild Goose Wine Bar

• Off the Wall Taphouse

• The Kind Cup

• The Juice Jar

• Doppio Coffee, Juice, & Gelato Bar

• Island Smoothie Cafe

4. Check out Historic Corolla Park

Historic Corolla Park is a great kid- and dog-friendly option. There’s a huge state-of-the-art playground with a large shaded seating pavillion. It’s a great picnic spot that gives the kids and dogs a chance to stretch their legs. The park also features the Currituck Lighthouse (climb to the top for panoramic views of the area), Whalehead Club (a historic mansion that offers tours and beautiful grounds for picnicking), crabbing, and fishing), the new Maritime Museum, and more beautiful sound views. Restrooms on site.

5. Get in Some Retail Therapy

Corolla has two main shopping centers across the street from each other: Monterey Plaza and Tim Buck II. Between the two of them, you'll find a plethora of shops, eateries, homemade ice-cream, cupcakeries, and even some hair salons and spas. The family can split up with everyone doing their own thing then meet back for a late lunch before heading to the house to check in.

6. Stock Up on Essentials

Grocery and specialty stores in Corolla typically offer a good selection of products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, and household items. You can find everything you need to prepare your own meals or stock your vacation rental. Be sure to think about timing and how you’ll keep items cold if check-in begins at 4:00 p.m..

• Food Lion—pick up and delivery available via Instacart

• Harris Teeter—pick up and delivery available via Instacart

• Butcher Block

• Bluewater Seafood

• Seaside Farm Market

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