The Cost of Driving From Charlotte, North Carolina to Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

Ever wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and soak up the sun on a beautiful beach? Look no further than Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina! Located just a few hours away from Charlotte, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a relaxing vacation. In this blog post, we’ll explore the cost of driving from Charlotte to Ocean Isle Beach, including different routes, distances, travel times, and the all-important cost breakdowns.

Option 1: Taking the Scenic Route

If you’re in the mood for a leisurely drive with stunning views, the scenic route might just be right up your alley. Take I-77 South, then merge onto I-520 East towards Columbia. From there, hop onto I-95 South and continue until you reach exit 33 for US-17 North.

Distance: Approximately 214 miles.

Travel Time: This route takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic.

Cost: With gas prices averaging at around $2.50 per gallon and a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend about $42.80 on gas for this trip.

Option 2: The Quickest Route

If time is of the essence and you want to reach your destination as quickly as possible, the quickest route might be your best bet. Start by taking US-74 West from Charlotte and continue onto US-17 South towards Myrtle Beach. Follow the signs for Ocean Isle Beach, and you’ll be there in no time!

Distance: Roughly 210 miles.

Travel Time: This route can be completed in approximately 3 and a half hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Cost: Gas prices remain around $2.50 per gallon, and with a fuel-efficient car that gets 30 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend roughly $35.00 on gas for this trip.

Option 3: The Scenic and Convenient Route

If you prefer a mix of scenic views and convenience, this route combines the best of both worlds. Start by taking I-485 South from Charlotte, then merge onto US-74 East towards Rockingham. Continue on US-17 South until you reach Ocean Isle Beach.

Distance: About 190 miles.

Travel Time: This route usually takes around 3 and a half hours, give or take a few minutes.

Cost: Gas prices still hover around $2.50 per gallon. With a car that gets 28 miles per gallon, you’ll likely spend approximately $39.00 on gas for this trip.

Toll Prices

Keep in mind that some routes may have toll roads. The quickest route, for example, involves a $2.00 toll fee at the North Carolina/South Carolina state line. It's always wise to carry some small change or make sure you have a transponder handy to make paying tolls a breeze!

So there you have it – three different routes to choose from when driving from Charlotte to Ocean Isle Beach, each with its own benefits and costs. Whether you’re in the mood for a scenic road trip or you simply want to get there as quickly as possible, these options allow you to plan your journey based on your preferences and budget. So hop in the car, buckle up, and get ready for a fantastic beach getaway!