News Summary
Carova Beach in North Carolina has been recognized as the 14th best secret beach in America by Frugal Flyer. Known for its untouched coastline and free-roaming wild mustangs, it offers a unique experience for travelers. Bald Head Island also made the list, ranked 91st, where visitors can enjoy a car-free environment and explore North Carolina’s oldest lighthouse. Both locations highlight North Carolina’s natural beauty and the need for responsible wildlife conservation amidst rising tourism.
Carova Beach, North Carolina – Carova Beach has been recognized as the 14th best secret beach in America by Frugal Flyer, a travel blog based in Canada. Located at the northernmost tip of the Outer Banks, Carova is popular among travelers looking for solitude and a unique coastal experience, thanks in part to its wide, serene beaches and the presence of wild mustangs that roam freely in the area.
Bald Head Island has also made its mark, ranked 91st in the list. This car-free barrier island, situated two miles off the coast of Southport, can only be accessed by a passenger ferry. Visitors to Bald Head Island can explore the area via golf carts, bicycles, or on foot, contributing to the island’s tranquil environment. The island is notable for housing North Carolina’s oldest lighthouse, Old Baldy, which was constructed in 1817.
Activities and Attractions
Carova Beach offers numerous recreational activities for visitors. Tourists can hike through the 4,500-acre Currituck National Wildlife Refuge, bike along the sandy paths of the Currituck Banks Reserve, or engage in kayaking, birding, and surfing. Those interested in observing the wild mustangs can book four-wheel drive tours with local vendors, as these horses are often seen grazing in the area.
However, caution is advised around the wild horses, especially following a 2020 incident in which a woman was injured after attempting to slap a horse rummaging through her belongings. Officials warn that these animals can be unpredictable, especially if startled, and urge the public to keep a safe distance.
Visitors to Bald Head Island can enjoy a 20-minute ferry ride to the island and have the opportunity to rent bikes for exploring the town, which features a variety of retail shops. Climbing the 108 steps of Old Baldy rewards visitors with sweeping views and access to the Smith Island Museum of History. For those keen on outdoor activities, the Mitchell Nature Trail offers hiking opportunities, while kayaking in the creeks provides a chance to observe exotic wildlife.
Background and Community Safety
Carova Beach has a small year-round population of approximately 200-300 residents and boasts 11 miles of undeveloped shoreline, which is accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles. This limited accessibility contributes to its appeal for those seeking a more secluded beach experience.
Bald Head Island’s absence of cars fosters a peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature without the distractions of traffic. However, both locations face challenges related to wildlife conservation and public safety. A recent incident on July 4 involved a wild horse being struck by a pickup truck in Carova. Fortunately, the Corolla Wild Horse Fund reported that the horse seemed to be recovering and avoided serious injury.
Officials emphasize the importance of responsible driving in areas inhabited by wild horses and encourage the public to report any concerning incidents involving these animals. There is a clear correlation between pedestrian safety and respect for wildlife, leading to a strong advocacy for adhering to speed limits and being vigilant while driving in these regions.
The rankings of Carova Beach and Bald Head Island were derived from an online survey conducted in May 2025, with responses from 3,002 adults across various demographics in the U.S. This acknowledgment underscores the growing recognition of North Carolina’s pristine beach destinations that are gaining popularity for their natural beauty and unique experiences.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beach Hazards Statement Issued for Outer Banks Due to Rip Currents
Carova Beach and Bald Head Island Recognized as Secret Beaches
Duck, North Carolina Ranks Among America’s Best Coastal Small Towns
Duck, NC Pool House Fire Causes Alarm but No Injuries
Outer Banks Named Top Vacation Destination in North Carolina
Carova Fire and Rescue Urges Caution with Inflatable Rafts
NWS Issues Warning for Life-Threatening Rip Currents in North Carolina
Ocracoke Island Featured on HGTV for Its Unique Homes
Warning Issued for Dangerous Rip Currents in Virginia Beach
Outer Banks Season 5 Filming Begins
Additional Resources
- News Observer: Incident Report on Carova Beach
- Pure Wow: Best North Carolina Beach Towns
- WAVY: Wild Horse Incident in Carova
- People: Horse Struck on North Carolina Beach
- Axios: Best Beach Reader Choice in Virginia
- Wikipedia: Carova Beach
- Google Search: North Carolina Beaches
- Google Scholar: Wild Horses Carova Beach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Carova Beach
- Google News: Carova Beach News
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
