Corova Beach

Corova is the area north of Corolla where there are no paved roads. This area has many subdivisions that have been platted over the years but there are no paved roads and few houses. There’s also large tracts of US Fish and Wildlife property that will never be developed.

Wild Horses

Legend has it that these horses are direct descendants of Spanish Mustangs that survived shipwrecks hundreds of years ago. This herd is now carefully monitored and protected similar to the Chincoteague Pony herd. There are enough horses there that chances are good that you will see them either on the beach or just beyond the beach in the dunes when exploring this area.  Please remember these horses are wild and have been known to kick and bite people who get too close. It is best to view them from a distance.

Property for sale

There are both lots and homes for sale in this area.  Often times you’ll find the prices lower here than other areas of the beach where the roads are paved.  Besides the sandy roads, prices are generally lower here because this area does not qualify for the National Flood Insurance Program.  Flood insurance can be significantly more expensive here than most OBX locations.  Here are links to all the current land listings and all the current home listings in this area.

Beach Driving

Getting to properties in Corova Beach can be challenging because there are no roads. All but the most experienced sand drivers will need to use their four-wheel drive to negotiate the soft sand in this area. It can be difficult driving on the beach here is at high tide in the summer.  That’s especially the case when it has not rained for a long time.  A high traffic volume loosens the dry sand.  Most four-wheel drive vehicles will need to drop their tire pressure to keep from getting stuck. In fact, all beach drivers are encouraged to do this by the county.  Low tire pressure gives the tires extra area on the sand and allows cars to “float” on the deep, soft sand.

When large storms are off the coast, the entire beach may be engulfed by surging waves. Salt water will quickly ruin brakes and wheel bearings. If you have not visited this area, then it is certainly worth the trip. Besides the horses you may see many other types of wildlife including many types of birds of prey, deer, turkey and wild hogs. It is probably best to plan your first trip up there during a period of low tide.