The Great Drive South: Travel Time from Cary, NC to Marathon, FL
Are you planning a road trip from Cary, North Carolina to Marathon, Florida? If so, you're in for a treat! Between the scenic routes and gorgeous destinations along the way, your journey will be an adventure. But how long will it take you to get to your destination? We've put together a guide to help you plan your trip.
The Route Options
There are various routes you can take to travel from Cary, NC to Marathon, FL, each with their own unique features and distances. You can take Interstate 95 for the quickest route, or you can opt for a more scenic drive through the charming coastal towns of Georgia.
I-95 Route
The most popular route is to take I-95 South to Florida, which covers a distance of approximately 802 miles. This route takes around 12 hours and 30 minutes to drive without any stops. However, if you want to enjoy the journey, we recommend breaking up your drive into 2-3 days with plenty of stops along the way.
Recommended Stops
Savannah, Georgia: A beautifully preserved historic city with cobblestone streets, squares, and gardens. Grab a bite at The Grey or explore the Bonaventure Cemetery.
Jacksonville, Florida: Florida's largest city, with an exciting nightlife scene and numerous coastal beaches. Visit the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens or relax at Jacksonville Beach.
Daytona Beach, Florida: Known for its sprawling white sand beaches and the Daytona International Speedway. Take a pit stop at the historic Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse or catch a scenic drive along A1A.
Coastal Route
If you're looking for a scenic route, consider a coastal drive from Cary, NC to Marathon, FL. This drive takes you to the charming coastal towns in Georgia and Florida and takes around 15-16 hours to complete, depending on the number of stops you make. The total distance covered is approximately 940 miles.
Recommended Stops
Tybee Island, Georgia: Known for its wide, sandy beaches and piercing lighthouse. Stroll down the pier and grab a bite at the Crab Shack.
Jekyll Island, Georgia: A picturesque island retreat with rich history, beautiful scenery and miles of stunning beaches. Take a tour of the famous Jekyll Island Club Resort or go on a horseback ride along the beach.
St. Augustine, Florida: Home to the oldest city in the United States with cobblestone streets, Spanish architecture, and historic landmarks. Visit Castillo de San Marcos or go on a ghost tour of the city.
The Drive Time
Whatever route you choose, the drive from Cary, NC to Marathon, FL will undoubtedly be an adventure. The I-95 route takes around 12 hours and 30 minutes without traffic. The coastal route takes around 15-16 hours, depending on the number of stops you make along the way.
Final Thoughts
No matter which route you decide to take, be sure to take plenty of breaks along the way. With so many fantastic stops along the way, this drive is the perfect opportunity to explore some fantastic cities and beautiful coastal destinations in the United States. Safe travels and happy driving!