A Day in Currituck County

Established in 1668, Currituck County is steeped in history and heritage. Named for an indigenous Algonquin term meaning “the land of the wild goose,” Currituck is largely defined by the wildlife, waterways, marshes, woods, and plentiful farmland that surround the area. As your journey takes you south from the Currituck mainland to the Outer Banks, rural landscapes are replaced with awe-inspiring remote beaches that have attracted generations of families for the past several decades. Historical, recreational and inspirational opportunities await in the seaside community of Corolla with iconic sites such as the Currituck Beach Lighthouse and Whalehead museum, along with 24 miles of unspoiled coastline to enjoy. We invite you to discover the sights, sounds and stories of our county.

MORNING:

Breakfast

A stop at LJ Beaners Bakery & Café in Moyock is the perfect way to start your day. Enjoy a tasty cup of specialty coffee and some of the freshest pastries and tasty breakfast sandwiches in northeastern North Carolina. If you’re looking for a classic county breakfast, head to Southland Restaurant (breakfast available on weekends until 11am).

Farm to Table
A trip through the Currituck mainland will open your eyes to the rich farming heritage here, as soybean, corn, and wheat crops dominate the views along US-168 and US-158. To experience agritourism firsthand and to stock up on some of the freshest fruits, vegetables, pies, and more, make a few stops along the way at our quaint farm stands – Moyock Farm Market, Powell’s Roadside Market, Morris Farm Market, and Grandy Greenhouse & Farm Market to name a few – that have provided local families with their livelihood for generations.

AFTERNOON:

Lunch
As this culinary excursion through Currituck continues, look no further than family-owned Currituck BBQ in Barco for some of the best comfort food in the county. Can’t decide between the barbeque, brisket, pulled chicken, ribs, or fried chicken? The 2- or 3-meat combo platter might be the way to go! Although not yet in restoration phase, you can also catch a glimpse of one of Currituck’s Rosenwald Schools behind the restaurant. For a complete look at lunchtime options in the area, visit visitcurrituck.com/restaurants.

Explore our African American History
> Historic Jarvisburg Colored School
The Historic Jarvisburg Colored School is the oldest standing pre-Rosenwald school in North Carolina, depicting the history of education of all African American students in Currituck County from the late 1830s until 1950. The school, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, represents more than just education of African American children; it historically represents rural family life in Currituck at that time. This museum showcases an upper elementary age classroom that often combined several grades of children. Former students have shared many stories from their time at one or more of these schools. Exhibits speak to the cultural heritage of living in a rural, poor and coastal county in North Carolina and the struggles, challenges and opportunities that were realized during this time in our history. Tours are offered on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:00am to 3:00pm.

> Captain Benjamin J. Bowser Gravesite
Located adjacent to the Historic Jarvisburg Colored School and behind the Corinth Missionary Baptist Church is the gravesite of Captain Benjamin J. Bowser, a member of the all-African American crew at the Pea Island Lifesaving Station. These brave men rescued stranded sailors in the perilous and turbulent waters along the northern North Carolina coast in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Pea Island Lifesaving Station, while rescuing many sailors who may have succumbed to the sea, was known for one rescue in particular in October 1896. This rescue, as spotlighted in the film “Rescue Men – The story of the Pea Island Surfmen,” would illustrate the dedication to duty of these heroic men and earned them the Gold Lifesaving Medal.

Shopping: Antiques and Charm
Take a trip down memory lane when you visit Lammers Stained Glass & Gifts in Powells Point. The 8,500 square foot complex features the largest collection of custom stained glass panels, lamps, and giftware on the Outer Banks, as well as antique signs, soy candles, natural bath soaps, sterling silver jewelry, and many other whimsical items. A few miles south on US-158, you’ll find Carolina Charm in Point Harbor, known specifically for its unique copper roof birdhouses that are handcrafted in North Carolina. The shop is situated inside the house that the Griggs family built in 1892 and still owns today.

Hops and Grapes
Two Currituck businesses worth toasting to – Sanctuary Vineyards and Weeping Radish – are separated by one mile and are a must-see on your trip through the mainland. For seven generations, the Wright Family has called Currituck home and their 10-acre seaside vineyard has produced several award-winning wines that can be sampled and enjoyed in their tasting room. If you prefer hops to grapes, North Carolina’s oldest microbrewery beckons, with a vast array of beer styles to satisfy any palate, as well as a butchery and pub that serves lunch and dinner.

EVENING:

Dinner
Since 1990, BJ’s Carolina Café has been creating some of the tastiest meals in the area. This family-owned eatery has been pleasing locals and visitors alike with a menu that features locally grown vegetables, fresh local seafood, the highest quality meats for their steaks and burgers, and chicken wings that will leave you craving more for days. Feel like dining along the Atlantic Intercoastal Waterway? Coinjock Marina & Restaurant has been a favorite of locals and traveling yachtsmen alike since 1978. Serving up the freshest local seafood and home to a 32-ounce prime rib, Coinjock Marina Restaurant provides a special dining experience with a view of yachts and sailboats plying the waterway.

PAR FOR THE COURSE:
If you find yourself with extra time before or after your day discovering Currituck County, we invite you to explore some of the finest golf courses in North Carolina. With six courses to choose from, the Currituck Outer Banks provides golfers of every skill level an opportunity to experience our lush fairways, impeccably maintained greens, and true Southern hospitality.

ACCOMMODATIONS:
On the Currituck Outer Banks and mainland, you’ll find your perfect place to call “home” during your stay — from spacious oceanfront and soundside vacation rental properties to quaint inns and hotels, hunting lodges, and campground facilities. https://visitcurrituck.com/rentals-and-lodging

Scroll to Top