Biloxi MS to Beaufort SC Road Trip Guide

Did you know that the drive from Biloxi, MS to Beaufort, SC traces a path once used by pirates and blockade runners? The route follows US-90 along the Gulf Coast, then I-10 east, and US-17 north through the Lowcountry, covering roughly 450 miles. Depending on traffic and stops, plan for about 7 to 9 hours of driving time.

This guide answers how long to drive Biloxi, MS to Beaufort, SC, and whether it is worth driving this route. We highlight things to do between Biloxi and Beaufort, including natural landscapes, culinary stops, and cultural sites. For more on trip planning, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The primary route uses I-10 from Biloxi to Jacksonville, FL, then US-17 north to Beaufort, SC. Fuel stations are plentiful along I-10, but once you turn onto US-17 in coastal Georgia and South Carolina, gas stations become sparse. Fill up in Jacksonville before heading north.

• Fuel cost estimate: $45–$60 (regular gas at current prices).
• Tolls: None on I-10 or US-17.
• Best rest stops: Rest areas near Pascagoula, MS (mile marker 69) and at Suwannee River, FL (mile marker 282).

This drive crosses the Gulf Coast's white sand beaches, the pine forests of the Florida Panhandle, and the salt marshes of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Highlights include the barrier islands of Gulf Islands National Seashore and the ancient live oaks of Okefenokee Swamp.

• Natural Attractions: Gulf Islands National Seashore (FL), Okefenokee Swamp (GA), Savannah National Wildlife Refuge (SC).
• Hidden Gems: The tiny fishing village of Apalachicola, FL, known for oysters; and the ghost town of St. Marys, GA, home to Cumberland Island.

Local commerce along the route features shrimp boats, farmer's markets, and antique shops. In Beaufort, the historic district offers Lowcountry cuisine and art galleries.

Road quality is excellent on I-10, but US-17 through Georgia has narrow shoulders and occasional flooding. Check weather forecasts; afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.

• Fatigue stops: Take breaks every 2 hours at rest areas or scenic overlooks. Plan stops in Mobile, AL; Tallahassee, FL; and Brunswick, GA.
• Family-friendly: Pensacola Beach (FL) has soft sand and calm waters. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center in Jekyll Island (GA) is a hit with kids.
• Pet-friendly: Many beaches allow dogs off-season; most rest areas have pet exercise areas. In Beaufort, the Sands Beach is pet-friendly.