Driving Time between Boston, Massachusetts and Southern Shores, North Carolina

A picture depicting driving

A Coastal Adventure: Travel from Boston to Southern Shores

Are you looking for a coastal adventure that will take you from the hustle and bustle of Boston to the peaceful beaches of North Carolina? From historic landmarks to breathtaking views, this route offers a variety of options to make the journey as exciting as the destination. Here are some of the best routes and places to stop along the way!

I-95 Southbound

If you're looking for the fastest way to get from Boston to Southern Shores, I-95 Southbound is the way to go. This route is approximately 730 miles long and should take just over 11 hours to drive. While this may not be the most scenic route, it's the quickest and most convenient if you're short on time.

Places to Stop

  • Visit the Rhode Island State House, located just off I-95 in Providence, Rhode Island. This beautiful building dates back to 1904 and is open to the public for tours.
  • If you're a history buff, consider a detour to Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. This living history museum is one of the most well-known in the US and is just a few miles off I-95.
  • As you get closer to your destination, consider taking a break at the Outer Banks Brewing Station in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. This brewery offers craft beers and delicious food, and it's located just a few blocks away from the beach.

Route 13 Southbound

If you're looking for a more scenic route, consider taking Route 13 Southbound. This route follows the eastern coast of the US and offers stunning views of the coastline and historic sites along the way. While this route is slightly longer at around 850 miles, the added travel time is worth it for the views.

Places to Stop

  • Visit the Cape Charles Lighthouse in Virginia. This beautiful lighthouse dates back to 1868 and offers tours and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
  • As you enter North Carolina, be sure to stop at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills. This historic site celebrates the first flight in 1903 and offers exhibits and artifacts.
  • Take a break at the Salty Dawg Saloon in Avon, North Carolina. This beachfront bar and grill offers stunning views of the ocean and delicious seafood dishes.

Scenic Route via Blue Ridge Parkway

For a truly unforgettable journey, take the scenic route via the Blue Ridge Parkway. This route is longer at around 1,000 miles, but it offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and the beautiful scenery along the way.

Places to Stop

  • Visit Mount Mitchell State Park in North Carolina, home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi. The park offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Take a break at Roanoke, Virginia, and visit the Roanoke Star. This iconic symbol of Virginia's Blue Ridge is located atop Mill Mountain and offers stunning views of the city below.
  • Stop at the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area in North Carolina for some of the best hiking and mountain biking in the area.

No matter which route you choose, the journey from Boston to Southern Shores is sure to be an adventure. Take your time, enjoy the views, and make some memories along the way!