I've got a house down in Corolla later this summer. Was thinking about coming down a night early and camping on the beach, you're saying it's not allowed though? Can you drive on the beach at night at least or is it sun up to sun down? Like your add on's there, especially the tail gate counter top.

 

Carolla is only an hour North of me but a whole different world. I am on Hatteras which is operated and enforced by the National Park Service (harsh) and has its own laws.
Carolla, Carova and Swan Beach are county and state owned (mellow). North of Carolla is the driving beach. You can fish all night long, camping is frowned upon.
Therefore, just claim to be fishing, you would likely be fine up there. Just keep it low key. If a patrol stops and asks, your intention would be to stay all night on the beach but not 'camp'.
Also, the beach driving in Carova is State Highway 12. It runs on the beach for 12 miles to the VA line, below the high-tide line. In other words it is a public road and open 24/7 (conditions permitting).

 

All in all it was a great trip, didn't take really any pictures I like to get away from technology anytime I'm out there. The jeep did great the rest of the time. Although about an hour away from home it started to act up again really hesistant in the lower speed range. Idk what's wrong with it but I haven't had time to really dig into it. Does anyone else have a real lack of power when going up inclines on the highway.