The Road Trip from Bethesda, Maryland to Saint Simons Island, Georgia: How Long Will It Take?

Are you planning a road trip from Bethesda, Maryland to Saint Simons Island, Georgia? If so, it's important to know how long the drive will take. In this blog post, we'll look at the fastest and slowest routes, their distance, and the average driving time during peak and low traffic.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The fastest route from Bethesda to Saint Simons covers a distance of roughly 700 miles and takes approximately 11-12 hours, without accounting for traffic. The quickest way is to take I-95 S for the entire route. This route may not be the most scenic, but it is the easiest one.

On the other hand, if you feel like taking in the beautiful scenery along the way and have time to spare, you can opt for the slower route. This route runs through historic and charming towns in Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia. It covers roughly 880 miles and takes approximately 14-15 hours. The route follows US-301, I-95 S, US-17 S, and GA-99 E. While it may take a lot of time, this route is worth it if you like to take your time and explore the many towns along the way.

Driving Time During Peak and Low Traffic

Whether you choose the faster or slower route, traffic conditions can impact your travel time. Peak traffic on I-95 S can be a real pain, and you can expect to encounter delays around major cities like Washington DC, Richmond, and Jacksonville.

On a good day, you can cover the distance between Bethesda and Saint Simons in 10 hours. However, traffic congestion can add up to 50% to your driving time. It's essential to keep this in mind and factor it into your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

Driving from Bethesda, Maryland, to Saint Simons Island, Georgia, is a long journey, but it can be an unforgettable adventure. Whether you choose the faster route or the slower one, be sure to plan ahead, keep an eye on the traffic, and take breaks along the way.

Remember that the time it takes to drive depends largely on traffic, so be prepared to be flexible with your travel time. If you're planning on traveling during peak traffic, it's best to leave early or late to avoid sitting in traffic. Overall, enjoy the journey as much as the destination!