Are There Stores or Restaurants in Carova?
No. There are no stores, restaurants, gas stations, or commercial businesses of any kind in Carova. The nearest services are in Corolla, a 20-35 minute beach drive away. Plan accordingly.
What Carova Doesn't Have
- Grocery stores
- Restaurants or cafes
- Gas stations
- Convenience stores
- Pharmacies
- ATMs or banks
- Retail shops of any kind
What Carova Does Have
- Fire station: Staffed 24/7 with EMS personnel (about 9.8 miles up the beach)
- Vacation rental homes: Most with full kitchens
- Wild horses: About 100 roaming freely
- Miles of empty beach: That's the point
Fill Up Before You Head North
Top off your gas tank in Corolla before driving onto the beach. There's no fuel available until you return. Running out of gas on the beach is an expensive mistake.
Nearest Services in Corolla
Corolla (20-35 minutes south) has everything you need:
- Food Lion: Full grocery store
- Harris Teeter: Upscale grocery with prepared foods
- Restaurants: Casual dining, pizza, seafood, etc.
- Gas stations: Multiple options
- Pharmacies: CVS and others
- Beach gear shops: Rentals and supplies
Planning Your Supplies
Most Carova visitors make one or two trips to Corolla during their stay:
- Before arrival: Stock up on groceries for the week
- Mid-week: Fresh items, anything you forgot
The 20-30 minute beach drive means you won't want to run to town for every little thing. Make a list, bring coolers, and think through what you'll need.
What to Bring
- All groceries and beverages for your stay
- Prescription medications
- Sunscreen and beach supplies
- Any specialty items you can't live without
- Charcoal/propane if you plan to grill
- Entertainment (books, games, downloaded movies)