Driving From Carolina Beach to Cumberland: Fastest vs Slowest Routes

Carolina Beach, North Carolina, with its stunning coastline and laid-back atmosphere, is a popular vacation spot for many. But what if you're looking to venture further north, to the charming town of Cumberland, Rhode Island? How long will it take you to drive from one beautiful destination to another? In this blog post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes, estimate the distance and driving time, and even factor in traffic patterns to give you a better idea of what to expect.

The Fast and Furious Route

If you're in a hurry or simply want to minimize the time spent on the road, then taking I-95 N is your best bet. Covering a distance of approximately 700 miles, this route typically takes around 10-11 hours to complete. However, keep in mind that this is a rough estimate and can vary based on traffic conditions.

Peak Traffic Time: During rush hour or on weekends, the heavy volume of vehicles can lead to delays. In these circumstances, expect the journey to take closer to 12 hours, especially in urban areas like Washington, D.C. and New York City.
Low Traffic Time: If you choose to embark on this drive during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, you'll likely experience less congestion and complete the journey in around 10 hours.

The Scenic and Serene Route

For those who prefer a more leisurely drive, taking I-40 E and I-95 N is a great option. While it covers a slightly longer distance of approximately 750 miles, this route allows you to pass through picturesque towns and take in the beautiful countryside. The estimated driving time for this route is around 11-12 hours.

Peak Traffic Time: Similar to the fastest route, heavy traffic during peak hours can cause delays. Plan accordingly and be prepared for the total driving time to reach closer to 13 hours during these periods.
Low Traffic Time: Opting for this route during off-peak times will allow you to enjoy a more seamless journey of around 11 hours.

The Middle Ground

Sometimes, we don't want to sacrifice speed entirely but still wish to avoid the hustle and bustle of major highways. If this sounds like you, consider combining I-73 N and I-74 E for a balanced drive. Covering a distance of roughly 650 miles, this route typically takes between 10.5 and 11.5 hours.

Peak Traffic Time: Similar to the other routes, expect the overall driving time to increase to approximately 12-13 hours during peak traffic periods.
Low Traffic Time: During less congested periods, you can expect to reach your destination in approximately 10.5 hours.

Choose Your Adventure

The time it takes to drive from Carolina Beach, North Carolina, to Cumberland, Rhode Island, can range from 10 to 13 hours, depending on the route and traffic patterns. Whether you're seeking to minimize travel time or prefer a more scenic drive, there's an option for everyone. To make the most out of your journey, plan ahead, consider the time of day you'll be driving, and be prepared for unexpected delays. Safe travels and enjoy both the journey and destination!