Driving Cost from Dr. Phillips, Florida to Saint Augustine South, Florida

A picture depicting a gas pump

Understanding the Cost of Traveling from Dr. Phillips to Saint Augustine South: A Gas Price Guide

Traveling from Dr. Phillips, Florida, to Saint Augustine South, Florida, can be an exciting adventure, but understanding the costs associated with the trip is essential for budget-conscious travelers. With current gas prices fluctuating, it becomes important to factor in not only the distance but also fuel efficiency and route options. This article will break down the various routes available, their costs based on current gas prices, and help you choose the best route for your journey.

Route Options: An Overview

When considering a trip from Dr. Phillips to Saint Augustine South, travelers typically have a few options. Each route offers differing distances, driving times, and scenic views, which can all influence gas consumption and overall cost.

Route 1: The I-95 N Route

The most straightforward option involves taking I-4 E to I-95 N. This route covers approximately 110 miles and takes roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes without traffic.

  • Step-by-Step Directions:
    1. Start on FL-408 E (Eastern Expressway).
    2. Merge onto I-4 E toward Daytona Beach.
    3. Continue on I-4 for about 60 miles.
    4. Merge onto I-95 N via exit 87A toward Jacksonville.
    5. Take exit 318 for FL-16 W toward St. Augustine.

Route 2: The Scenic A1A Highway

For those who prefer a more scenic drive, Route A1A runs along the coast and provides stunning ocean views. However, this scenic route is longer, stretching approximately 130 miles and taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

  • Step-by-Step Directions:
    1. Start on I-4 E toward Daytona Beach.
    2. Switch to A1A S at the Beachside route toward Flagler Beach.
    3. Continue on A1A S through picturesque coastal towns until reaching St. Augustine.

Route 3: The Florida Turnpike

Another option is to take the Florida Turnpike, a toll road that runs parallel to I-95. This route is approximately 115 miles and can take about 2 hours, depending on traffic and toll delays.

  • Step-by-Step Directions:
    1. Start by heading south on FL-408 W.
    2. Merge onto the Florida Turnpike heading north.
    3. Continue until reaching the exit for I-95 N.
    4. Follow I-95 N to exit 318 for FL-16 W toward St. Augustine.

Route 4: Backroads via FL-50

For those willing to venture off the beaten path, taking a combination of backroads that lead from Dr. Phillips toward Saint Augustine South can be a unique experience. This route covers about 125 miles and takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. The roads may vary in conditions and traffic, so this route can be hit-or-miss depending on the time of day.

  • Step-by-Step Directions:
    1. Follow FL-50 E from Dr. Phillips.
    2. Merge onto US-17 N.
    3. Continue to St. Augustine via local roads.

Cost Estimation: Gas Prices and Vehicle Efficiency

To compute the cost of your trip, you need to consider the current gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency. As of October 2023, the average gas price in Florida is about $3.50 per gallon.

Estimating the Miles Per Gallon (MPG)

Let's assume a few scenarios for vehicle fuel efficiency:

  • Fuel-Efficient Vehicle (30 MPG): This type of car would consume approximately 3.67 gallons of fuel on the I-95 N route.
  • Standard Vehicle (25 MPG): This type would consume approximately 4.4 gallons.
  • Large SUV or Truck (15 MPG): This type would burn up about 7.33 gallons.

Fuel Cost Calculation

Using the average price of $3.50 per gallon, let's calculate the fuel costs for each type of vehicle on the selected routes:

Route 1: I-95 N (110 miles)

  • Fuel-Efficient Vehicle:

    • Cost: 3.67 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $12.85

  • Standard Vehicle:

    • Cost: 4.4 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $15.40

  • Large SUV/Truck:

    • Cost: 7.33 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $25.66

Route 2: A1A Highway (130 miles)

  • Fuel-Efficient Vehicle:

    • Cost: Approximately 4.33 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $15.16

  • Standard Vehicle:

    • Cost: 5.2 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $18.20

  • Large SUV/Truck:

    • Cost: 8.67 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $30.45

Route 3: Florida Turnpike (115 miles)

  • Fuel-Efficient Vehicle:

    • Cost: 3.83 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $13.41

  • Standard Vehicle:

    • Cost: 4.6 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $16.10

  • Large SUV/Truck:

    • Cost: 7.67 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $26.88

Route 4: Backroads via FL-50 (125 miles)

  • Fuel-Efficient Vehicle:

    • Cost: 4.17 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $14.58

  • Standard Vehicle:

    • Cost: 5 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $17.50

  • Large SUV/Truck:

    • Cost: 8.33 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $29.17

Recommendations: Best Route to Take

Given the distances and the cost estimates provided, the I-95 N route stands out as the most cost-effective option for reaching Saint Augustine South from Dr. Phillips. Not only does it offer a good balance between distance and time, but it also remains budget-friendly, especially for those driving fuel-efficient vehicles. The expected cost ranging between $12.85 and $25.66, depending on your vehicle type, makes it an optimal choice.

On the other hand, if you're in the mood for a scenic road trip, taking the A1A Highway can be a rewarding experience, although it will incur higher fuel costs and take more time.

Conclusion

In summary, the journey from Dr. Phillips to Saint Augustine South can vary in both distance and cost. Opting for the I-95 N route will facilitate a more direct and budget-friendly travel experience. Overall, the trip is approximately 110 miles and takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it a manageable option for day trips or weekend getaways. Whether you choose to take a straightforward route or indulge in a scenic detour, the destination is sure to provide memorable experiences.