Driving on the beach is not only a fun activity to add to your beach day but one steeped in history; however, because of safety and environmental concerns, it is far less common and limited to few areas. One of which is North Carolina.
Where Can You Drive on the Beach in OBX?
The Outer Banks is one of the few spots that still allows beach driving in several areas such as Hatteras, Ocracoke, Carova, Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills.
Hatteras and Ocracoke Island:
Beach driving is allowed seasonally in these locations, depending on nesting, etc., at designated off-roading sites throughout the islands. Additionally, Cape Hatteras night driving is allowed from November 16 through April 30.
A parking permit must be acquired beforehand from the National Park Service website or the ranger station at the Ocracoke Campground.
Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills:
For the rest of the locations in the Outer Banks, driving on the beach is seasonal from October 1 to April 30. All spots require a permit that can be picked up at the town halls or online.
Carova:
The same time frame applies for Carova. The only exception to driving permits are the northern 4WD beaches but a parking permit is still needed. Parking permits are required on the Friday before Memorial Day until 11:59 pm.
You can access the beach driving ramps north of the paved NC Highway 12.
Rules for Driving on the Beach in OBX
Those wishing to participate in beach driving should always double-check the beach site for any information on changes in hours and zones and do not attempt to drive your vehicle until you have obtained a permit.
Always put your vehicle in 4WD before attempting to drive on the sand, especially in the OBX due to the deep, soft sand. Before you head out, you should also make sure your car is able to drive in sand in general; low riding cars are not the best options. Trucks, SUVs and cars such as Jeeps are ideal.
Once you’ve checked your car, deflate your tires to navigate the sand properly. The best pressure to maintain for this is 15-22 PSI and remember to air back up before returning to the pavement.
Make sure to stay on the set sand tracks for your vehicle for a smooth ride and for the safety of others.
What is not allowed are ATVS from Corolla to Ocracoke Island, driving in the dunes, going over the posted limit and driving in blocked-off sections.
What To Do If You Get Stuck While Driving?
You tried out beach driving but you got yourself stuck…now what? Or maybe you’re just preparing for the worst; either way, I've got you covered.
If you get stuck while driving your vehicle on the beach, you can try to remove the sand from your tires and create a clear path with items such as shovels, boards or traction mats.
Do not try to keep moving forward, you will only push the tire deeper into the sand. In the worst case, prepare to get pulled out by another vehicle or call towing. Luckily, there are multiple towing companies in the OBX that are well-versed in this situation.
The Bottom Line: Driving on the Beach in OBX
Driving on the beach is an activity that not many are aware is possible because of how uncommon it is today. If you're heading to the Outer Banks and interested in this fun, scenic activity, make sure you check your area's beach guides, purchase your permit and be prepared to view the beach from a different perspective.
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