Outer Banks & Northern Coast

Family Fun On The Currituck Sound

Once upon a time, the Currituck Sound in northeastern North Carolina was mostly the province of well-heeled duck hunters and solitary lighthouse keepers. Today, duck blinds can still be found in the marshy islands that dot the sound. But most of the people who come here now would rather shoot the waterfowl that migrate through here with cameras.

One fun way to explore the abundant aquatic life in the Sound is aboard Currituck Sound Charters, run by Corolla Bait & Tackle. The captain will take you and your family through the backwaters on a 25-foot pontoon boat and show you the area’s best fishing, crabbing and sightseeing; or you can visit the vineyards on Knott’s Island. Scheduling is first come first served, so call (252) 453-9500 to find a convenient time.

On dry land, another terrific way to see the local sights is with the help of Corolla Outback Adventures. One of their trademarks is an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) tour complete with a 20-mile trek along the northern beaches, during which you’ll see a maritime forest and a shipwreck. They can also take you and the family on their Wild Horse Safari – a 2 1/2-hour eco-tour during the course of which you’ll see local wildlife like red foxes, dolphin, white-tail deer and of course the area’s famous wild ponies. You’ll also hear some fascinating local legends. For reservations, call 252-453-0877.

Speaking of eco-tours, another way to enjoy one is with the helpful guidance of Carolina Outdoors, a division of the incomparable Kitty Hawk Kites. They offer guided kayak tours for everyone from beginners to the more advanced - in Currituck and all of the other sounds. For more information on locations and times, call 1-800-334-4777.

For a birdseye view of the area, visit the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, the only light in North Carolina that is still housed in its original structure. First put into service in 1875, it still serves as an aid to navigation. Climb the 200-plus steps for spectacular vistas of the sound to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.

And after a really active day, you may want to treat yourself to The Sanderling Spa at the Sanderling Resort, which offers a wide variety of body and wellness treatments.

added: June 29, 2009

updated: April 15, 2013