The Drive from Corolla to Avon: A Scenic Coastal Journey

If you're planning a trip from the scenic coastal town of Corolla to the charming village of Avon in North Carolina's Outer Banks, you may be wondering about the best route and how long it will take to get there. Don't worry, we've got you covered! There are a few different routes you can take, each offering its own unique scenery and travel times.

The Fastest Route: Using Highway 12

One of the fastest routes from Corolla to Avon is to take Highway 12, which offers stunning views of the coastline as you drive down the Outer Banks. The distance from Corolla to Avon via this route is approximately 68 miles, and without traffic, it takes about 2 hours to drive. During peak traffic times, such as weekends and holidays, the drive can take up to 3 hours. On the other hand, during low traffic times on weekdays, you can make the drive in just under 2 hours.

The Scenic Route: Via NC-12 and The Ferry

If you're looking for a more scenic drive, you can take NC-12, which runs along the coast, and then hop on the ferry from Stumpy Point to Rodanthe. This route offers breathtaking views of the Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. The total distance for this route is around 84 miles, and without traffic, it takes about 2.5 hours to drive. During peak traffic times, the drive can take closer to 3.5 hours, while during off-peak times, it can be completed in just under 2.5 hours.

The Slowest Route: Taking the Sound Side

If you prefer to take the slow and scenic route, you can travel along the sound side, through smaller towns like Duck and Kitty Hawk, before heading south to Avon. This route offers a more leisurely pace and allows for plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way. The distance for this route is approximately 90 miles, and without traffic, it takes about 3 hours to drive. During peak traffic times, the drive can take up to 4 hours, while during low traffic times, it can still take around 3 hours due to the winding nature of the road.

Whether you're looking to get to Avon as quickly as possible or prefer to take your time and enjoy the scenic drive, there are options to suit every preference. Just be sure to plan your trip accordingly, taking into account traffic patterns and potential delays. Safe travels!