Featured in our calendar “2026 Carolina Gems: All Around North Carolina” for August
Along the wind-swept barrier islands of North Carolina, a group of unexpected residents still roams. The wild horses of the Outer Banks are a living link to the past, believed to be descendants of Spanish mustangs brought to these shores nearly five centuries ago. Their resilience and independence have made them one of the state’s most iconic natural treasures.
In Corolla, visitors often spot these wild horses meandering through the dunes or strolling along the beach. About one hundred horses make up the herd, and they are carefully protected by the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. These animals have adapted to their environment in remarkable ways. Their small, stocky build helps them thrive on tough grasses and salt spray, and they instinctively find fresh water in a landscape where it is scarce.
A separate herd of horses lives further south on Shackleford Banks, part of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Also numbering around one hundred, these horses roam freely across the island’s grassy dunes and sandy flats. They are protected by federal law and monitored closely to maintain a healthy balance between the animals and their fragile habitat.
The best way to see the wild horses of Corolla is through a guided tour. Tours take visitors along the wide beaches just north of town in specially equipped vehicles, giving guests the chance to safely observe these animals in their natural setting. On Shackleford Banks, you can reach the island by ferry or small boat and walk the trails to find horses grazing or trotting along the shoreline.
Whether you catch a glimpse of them from a beach tour or on foot across the island, seeing these horses up close is something you won’t forget. Their calm presence and quiet confidence make it easy to see why they’ve become such a lasting part of the Outer Bank’s experience.
As you explore the wild beauty of North Carolina’s coast, make sure your personal plans are just as prepared. Blue Moon Benefits Group is proud to serve residents in High Point, Clemmons, and beyond with expert advice on Medicare, health insurance, and supplemental coverage. Our local team is here to help you find clear answers and dependable solutions, so you can focus on the moments that matter, from open beaches to lifelong peace of mind.
