Beach driving is not allowed in Southern Shores. The Town of Southern Shores prohibits vehicles on the beach year-round. If you are looking for beach driving access on the Outer Banks, you will need to head to one of the towns or National Seashore ramps where it is permitted.
Quick Facts
| Town | Town of Southern Shores, NC |
| Beach Driving Allowed | No — prohibited year-round |
| Pedestrian Access | Yes, via public beach access points |
| Nearest Driving Access | See alternatives below |
Location & Aerial View
Why You Can’t Drive on the Beach in Southern Shores
The Town of Southern Shores has chosen to keep its beaches pedestrian-only year-round. This is a town ordinance decision made for safety, beach preservation, and the character of the community. Unlike Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and Kitty Hawk to the south, or the Currituck County beaches at Carova to the north, Southern Shores does not issue beach driving permits and has no off-season driving period.
Where You CAN Drive on the Beach Nearby
If you are visiting Southern Shores, the following beach driving destinations are within a short drive:
- Kitty Hawk (south) — The neighboring town to the south allows seasonal beach driving with a permit October to April.
- Corolla NC-12 / Carova (north) — Drive north through Duck and Corolla to the end of NC-12 for year-round 4×4 access to Carova Beach. No town permit needed.
- Nags Head (south) — A larger town offering seasonal beach driving with a permit October to April.
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore — Roughly 1.5–3 hours south, the National Seashore offers year-round ORV access at numbered ramps from Bodie Island to Ocracoke.
Pedestrian Beach Access in Southern Shores
Southern Shores has numerous public beach access points with parking. The town maintains boardwalks and walkways over the dunes at each access. Look for posted town beach access signs along the oceanfront streets. These are pedestrian-only — no vehicles permitted past the parking areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive on the beach in Southern Shores?
No. The Town of Southern Shores prohibits vehicles on the beach year-round. There is no permit available because beach driving is not permitted at any time.
Is there a season when beach driving is allowed in Southern Shores?
No. Unlike Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, and Kitty Hawk which allow off-season beach driving with a permit, Southern Shores has no driving season. Beaches are pedestrian-only year-round.
Where is the closest beach driving access to Southern Shores?
The closest options are the towns immediately to the north or south of Southern Shores, plus the National Seashore ramps further south on Bodie, Hatteras, and Ocracoke Islands. See the alternatives section above for direct links.
Can I park in Southern Shores and walk onto the beach?
Yes. Southern Shores maintains numerous public beach access points with parking and dune walkovers. Pedestrian beach access is welcomed year-round — only vehicles on the sand are prohibited.