FAQ

What Kind of Vehicle Do I Need for Beach Driving?

You need a 4-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle with at least 6 inches of ground clearance. Regular 2WD cars, even SUVs, will get stuck in the soft sand.

SUV driving on Carova beach
A proper 4x4 handles the beach with ease when tires are aired down

Vehicle Requirements

Ground Clearance

  • Minimum: 6 inches
  • Recommended: 8+ inches

Higher clearance helps you avoid dragging on soft sand and navigate over debris that washes up on the beach.

Drive System

  • 4WD (4-wheel drive): Best option. Use 4-High for most beach driving.
  • AWD (all-wheel drive): Works for most vehicles, especially with a sand/off-road mode.
  • 2WD: Will not work. You will get stuck.

Vehicles That Work Well

  • Full-size trucks: F-150, Silverado, Ram 1500, Tundra
  • Full-size SUVs: Tahoe, Expedition, Suburban, Sequoia
  • Mid-size trucks: Tacoma, Colorado, Frontier, Ranger
  • Mid-size SUVs: 4Runner, Grand Cherokee, Pathfinder, Bronco
  • Jeep Wranglers: Excellent for beach driving
  • Crossovers with AWD: Some work (RAV4, Subaru Outback, etc.) if they have adequate clearance

Vehicles That Won't Work

  • Sedans (any type)
  • Minivans
  • 2WD trucks or SUVs
  • Low-clearance crossovers
  • Sports cars

The Real Secret: Tire Pressure

Even the best 4x4 will struggle with fully inflated tires. Airing down to 16-18 PSI is 90% of successful beach driving. Your tires flatten out and float on the sand instead of digging in.

Don't Have a 4x4?

You have options:

  • Rent one locally: Several Outer Banks companies rent beach-ready 4x4s. See our guide on renting a 4x4.
  • Take a tour: Wild horse tour companies will drive you into Carova in their vehicles.
  • Shuttle service: Some rental companies offer shuttle services to Carova properties.

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