Currituck Mainland Guide
Discover Currituck County Mainland
Your gateway to the Outer Banks! Explore farm-fresh markets, thrilling water parks, scenic vineyards, and lots more all just minutes from the beach.
More Than Just a Stop on the Way
If you're heading to the Outer Banks via the Wright Memorial Bridge, your journey begins on the Currituck Mainland. For many travelers, it's simply part of the drive, maybe a quick stop at Morris Farm Market before continuing on. But most don't realize just how much this area has to offer.
The Currituck Mainland is full of surprises. Beyond its sprawling fields and stunning soundside views, you'll find local restaurants, family-friendly attractions, charming shops, and hidden gems that showcase the heart of coastal Carolina. It's truly a place worth slowing down for and exploring. Currituck Mainland is home to the towns of Coinjock, Poplar Branch, Grandy, Jarvisburg, Powells Point, Harbinger, and Point Harbor.
To help you make the most of your next Outer Banks getaway with KEES Vacations, we've created a guide to the top spots and experiences on the Currituck Mainland. We offer four beautiful soundfront vacation rentals with incredible coastal sunsets, and several are pet-friendly so you can bring your furry friend along. If you want to stay by the water without the crowds, the Currituck Mainland is an ideal choice. Enjoy a quiet coffee on the porch, take a quick day trip to the beach, and end your day with a sunset on the sound. Whether you're visiting local farmers markets, playing a round of golf, or spending an afternoon birdwatching, the Currituck Mainland has something for everyone. Keep reading to discover what awaits you.
KEES vacation rentals on the Currituck Mainland are all waterfront properties, offering beautiful sound views at a more affordable price than oceanfront homes. Staying here gives you easy access to local attractions, dining, farmers markets, and shopping, while keeping you close to Kitty Hawk beaches and the rest of the Outer Banks. After a day by the ocean, you can drive back over the Wright Brothers Memorial Bridge and enjoy a quieter, more relaxing setting. The Currituck Mainland truly offers the best of both worlds. You have the beach and the sound, plus nearby access to Chesapeake and Elizabeth City if you want to explore beyond the Outer Banks. This area is perfect for water activities, golfing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more, all at a lower cost than staying directly in the beach towns. Make KEES your first choice for your next getaway. We're here to help you have the best stay possible. Call us or book online to start planning your trip.
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Farmers Markets
Fresh local produce year-round
H2OBX Waterpark
Thrilling family fun
Golf Courses
Top tier courses await
Westside Athletic Club
Stay active on vacation
Local Dining
Coastal flavors & classics
Wineries & Distilleries
Sip & savor local spirits
Off-Road Adventures
Get muddy at Diggers Dungeon
Town Parks
Playgrounds & picnic spots
Beach Access
Quick drive to the shore
Visit KEES
Stop by our office
Currituck Rural Center
Events & entertainment
Mackay Island Refuge
World-class birdwatching
Farmers Markets
Pro tip: Arrive early for the best selection of seasonal produce and homemade baked goods!
There's nothing quite like shopping for fresh, locally-grown produce while on vacation. Currituck County Mainland is home to several wonderful farmers markets that operate year-round, offering everything from just-picked vegetables to artisan crafts.
- Grandy Farmers Market — A community favorite featuring local farmers, bakers, and crafters. Perfect for picking up fresh ingredients for your vacation home meals.
- Morris Farm Market — This family farm offers seasonal produce, you-pick opportunities, and a charming country store. Don't miss their famous strawberries in spring!
- Moyock Farmers Market — A market with an excellent selection of produce and handmade goods from local artisans. They sell the best watermelons in the summer and Christmas trees during the holidays.
These markets host special events throughout the year, from harvest festivals to holiday markets, making any time a great time to visit.
↑ Back to TopH2OBX Waterpark
Pro tip: Bring your own sunscreen and snacks to save money! The park allows outside food and drinks.
H2OBX Waterpark, one of the largest waterparks on the East Coast, is located in Currituck County. Featuring over 30 rides, slides, and attractions, it offers a fun and refreshing experience for visitors of all ages.
They have lazy rivers and kid-friendly splash zones, and there's something for every age and adventure level. The park also features a massive wave pool that mimics the ocean which is great practice before hitting the real beaches across the bridge!
The waterpark typically operates from late May through early September. We recommend visiting on weekdays for shorter lines and a more relaxed experience.
↑ Back to TopGolf Courses
Pro tip: Many courses offer lower off-season rates which is a great way to save while enjoying cooler temperatures.
Golf enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise here. The Currituck County area boasts several championship-caliber courses that take full advantage of our beautiful coastal landscape.
- The Pointe Golf Club — A stunning course with challenging holes and breathtaking views of the Currituck Sound.
- Kilmarlic Golf Club — Apart of the Top 100 Courses You Can Play in North Carolina, by Golf Styles Magazine!
- Carolina Club — A hidden gem offering a relaxed atmosphere and fair challenges for all skill levels.
- Holly Ridge Golf Course — Family-friendly 18-hole, 71 par course which is perfect for golfers of all ages and skill levels. ↑ Back to Top
Westside Athletic Club
Pro tip: Ask about day passes or weekly memberships — perfect for vacation fitness routines!
Don't let vacation derail your fitness goals! Westside Athletic Club offers state-of-the-art facilities for visitors who want to stay active during their stay.
The club features a fully equipped gym, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and pickleball courts, and a variety of group fitness classes. It's a great option for rainy days or when you need a break from the beach.
Their friendly staff can help you with day pass options and point you toward the best classes for your fitness level.
↑ Back to TopLocal Dining
Pro tip: You can actually dock your boat right at the Coinjock Marina Restaurant!
From waterfront dining to casual eateries, Currituck County Mainland serves up delicious options for every craving. Here are some local favorites:
- Coinjock Marina Restaurant — Their prime rib is the stuff of legends, and the waterfront views are unbeatable. Watch boats cruise by while you enjoy a memorable meal.
- Pass the Salt Cafe — Great for a casual lunch with fresh, local ingredients.
- Currituck BBQ Company — You'll find authentic Carolina-style barbecue with all the fixings.
Many restaurants feature locally-caught seafood, so be sure to ask about the catch of the day! Find more restaurants here.
↑ Back to TopWineries & Distilleries
Pro tip: Sanctuary Vineyards offers live music — check their events calendar!
Wine and spirits lovers, rejoice! Currituck County is home to some wonderful spots for tastings and tours.
- Sanctuary Vineyards — Set on a beautiful estate, this winery produces award-winning wines with grapes grown right on site. Their tasting room is welcoming, and the grounds are perfect for an afternoon stroll. Check out their live music events and wine festivals. Some of their wine selections even donate a portion of proceeds to the Corolla Wild Horse Fund.
- Buffalo City Distillery — Learn about the fascinating history of this area while sampling their handcrafted spirits. The distillery takes its name from the legendary lumber town that once stood nearby.
Both venues offer a relaxing break from beach activities and a chance to take home some local flavors.
↑ Back to TopOff-Road Adventures
Pro tip: Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty because you WILL get muddy, and that's the fun of it!
Ready for some adrenaline-pumping fun? Currituck County has you covered with exciting off-road experiences that the whole family will love.
- Diggers Dungeon — Take a walk around where the iconic monster truck, Grave Digger, first started! They also offer monster truck rides and have an indoor play area and arcade.
- Muddy Motorsports Park — For those who love getting muddy, this off-road park offers ATV and mud-bogging experiences. Be sure to check out their events that change monthly.
These attractions are perfect for breaking up beach days with something completely different and exciting.
↑ Back to TopTown Parks
Pro tip: Currituck Community Park has a splash pad that's free to use — perfect for keeping little ones cool!
Need a break from the sand? Currituck County's town parks offer beautiful green spaces for picnics, play, and relaxation.
Currituck County Community Park is a standout destination with playgrounds, courts, walking trails, and a fantastic splash pad for hot summer days. It's a great spot for a family picnic or to let the kids burn off some energy.
The parks are well-maintained and offer restroom facilities, making them convenient stops during your adventures around the county.
↑ Back to TopQuick Drive to the Beach
Pro tip: Consider staying on the mainland for lower rates, then just drive to the beach when you'd like!
One of the best parts about staying in Currituck County Mainland? You're just minutes from the beautiful Outer Banks beaches! The drive from most mainland locations to the beach takes only 15-25 minutes.
This means you can enjoy the peace and quiet of mainland accommodations (often at better rates!) while still having easy access to all the sun, sand, and surf you desire.
↑ Back to TopStop By and See Us at KEES
Pro tip: We're happy to share our local favorites and insider tips — just ask!
Planning your Outer Banks adventure? Stop by our office at the historic Weeping Radish building in Grandy! Our friendly team would love to chat!
Whether you're checking in for your rental, browsing properties for a future trip, or just looking for local recommendations, we're always happy to help. Our team lives and works in this area, so we know all the best spots!
↑ Back to TopCurrituck Rural Center
Pro tip: Check their event calendar before your trip — you might catch a concert, craft fair, or community event!
The Currituck Rural Center is the heart of community events and entertainment in the area. This versatile venue hosts everything from concerts and plays to craft fairs and educational programs.
The center features modern facilities including a large event hall, meeting rooms, and outdoor spaces. It's a wonderful place to experience local culture and connect with the community during your stay.
Check their calendar of events before your trip because you never know what exciting activities might be happening during your vacation!
↑ Back to TopMackay Island National Wildlife Refuge
Pro tip: Bring binoculars and arrive early morning or late afternoon for the best bird sightings!
Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge is perfect for nature lovers. This 8,000-acre refuge was established in 1960 and provides critical habitats for migratory birds and offers outstanding opportunities for wildlife observation.
The refuge is home to over 180 species of birds throughout the year, including snow geese, tundra swans, and various duck species during migration seasons. Walking trails wind through diverse habitats including marshes, forests, and fields.
Beyond birdwatching, the refuge offers opportunities for photography, fishing, and simply enjoying the tranquility of unspoiled nature. It's a peaceful escape that reminds us why we love this coastal region.
Admission is free, and the refuge is open year-round during daylight hours.
↑ Back to TopThe Currituck Mainland has been shaped by a long and varied history. Over the centuries, it has been home to Indigenous tribes, visited by early coastal travelers, settled by English colonists, and later explored by the first Outer Banks vacationers. The Algonquian-speaking peoples were the earliest known inhabitants, followed hundreds of years later by English settlers in the 17th century. The name "Currituck" itself means "land of the wild goose." The county was officially founded in 1668. During the colonial era, the region developed into a quiet, rural community centered on farming and fishing. The Currituck Inlet became an important waterway, bringing in tradesmen and serving as a valuable route during the Revolutionary War. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, wealthy Northerners traveled south to hunt in Currituck County and what is now Corolla. While the area remains largely rural today, the 20th century introduced new ways of life with the rise of Outer Banks tourism. Still, the Currituck Mainland continues to preserve much of its historic character and coastal charm, making it a place worth exploring.
Photo courtesy of Lago Mar on the Back Bay Facebook
Photo courtesy of Lago Mar on the Back Bay Facebook
Photo courtesy of Outer Banks Vintage Scrapbook, David Knopfler Facebook
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