Beach Hopping: Driving from Alys Beach to Ormond Beach

Ah, Florida! The land of sunshine, the beach, and endless road trips. If you've got time on your hands and want to explore some of the Sunshine State's beachside neighborhoods, then driving down from Alys Beach to Ormond Beach is a perfect plan.

Here's a list of the quickest and the slowest routes, the distance between the two beaches, and traffic patterns to make your drive smooth and enjoyable.

Route Options

There are two main routes to get from Alys Beach to Ormond Beach- the I-10 route (which takes you through Tallahassee), or the I-75 route (which takes you through Ocala).

Fastest Route: I-75

The fastest way to make your way from Alys Beach to Ormond Beach is to take the I-10 E and then switch onto I-75 S. This route spans a total distance of around 365 miles and takes about 6 hours if you're driving non-stop.

Slowest Route: Coastal Route

If you're not in any rush and want to take the scenic route, then the coastal route (Highway 98 E) is the best option. The views along this route are stunning, but it can take up to 11 hours depending on how frequently you stop to take in the breathtaking vistas.

Traffic Patterns

Traffic patterns play a significant role in determining the duration of your journey. So, you must be aware of the peak traffic hours and when to avoid them.

Peak Traffic Time

If you plan on driving during the peak traffic hours, which is between 6-9 AM and 4-7 PM, then your journey can take longer than usual, at around 7-8 hours on the I-75 route. However, on the coastal route, the duration of your drive may be shorter, as it caters more to the leisurely tourist crowd.

Low Traffic Time

If you're looking to avoid any traffic backups, then it's best to drive during the night, from 11 PM to 5 PM, when the roads are quieter. During this time, it takes about 5.5 hours on the I-75 route and 9 hours on the coastal route. Of course, do make sure you plan sleep breaks into your itinerary if you choose to do this.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while driving from Alys Beach to Ormond Beach, the quickest, and most straightforward way is to take the I-10 and then the I-75. If you're looking for a leisurely drive along the coast and don't have any time constraints, then the scenic route is perfect for you. Both options have different traffic patterns and durations, so be sure to check the current conditions before heading out. Safe driving, and happy beach hopping!