The Ultimate Guide to Traveling from Cape May to Beaufort

Are you planning to drive from Cape May in New Jersey to Beaufort in South Carolina? Whether you are going on a road trip with friends or taking a solo adventure, there are different routes that you can take to get to your destination. In this article, we will discuss the different routes and their distances so you can choose the best option for you. We will also provide estimated driving times and some recommendations of places to stop along the way.

The Shortest Route

The shortest distance from Cape May to Beaufort is approximately 550 miles. This route will take you through Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina before reaching South Carolina. The estimated driving time for this route is about 9 hours.

If you want to stop along the way, consider visiting Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware, which is located at the mouth of the Delaware Bay. The park has beautiful beaches, bike paths, and hiking trails. Another great stop is Virginia Beach, which has a boardwalk that is more than three miles long and plenty of restaurants and shops to explore.

Coastal Route

If you prefer a scenic drive along the coast, you can take the I-95 South route and then connect with Route 17 South. This route is approximately 670 miles long and will take you through New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina before connecting with Route 17. From there, continue South on Route 17 until you reach Beaufort.

The estimated driving time for this route is approximately 11 hours, but the views along the way make it worth it. Make a stop in Virginia's Eastern shore to explore the National Wildlife Refuge and take a scenic drive along the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. In North Carolina, stop in Wilmington to visit the USS North Carolina battleship and explore the historic downtown area.

Blue Ridge Mountain Route

For those who love a scenic drive through mountains, consider taking the Blue Ridge Parkway route. From Cape May, take I-95 South to I-64 West. Drive along I-64 West until you reach the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance. The route is approximately 710 miles long, and the estimated driving time is about 13 hours.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful drive, with stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. Make a stop at Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, which has over 200,000 acres of protected land, hiking trails, and scenic drives. Another great spot to visit is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, which offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are three main routes that you can take from Cape May, New Jersey, to Beaufort, South Carolina. The shortest route is approximately 550 miles and will take you through Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. The coastal route is approximately 670 miles long and will take you along the beautiful East Coast. The Blue Ridge Mountain route is a longer drive, but it offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of great places to stop along the way. From state parks to historic downtowns to mountainous wilderness areas, there is something for everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan your next road trip and makes your journey from Cape May to Beaufort a memorable one. Happy travels!