Rehoboth Beach, DE to Myrtle Beach, SC: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The 450-mile journey from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, traces the Atlantic coastline along US-13, US-17, and I-95. This route passes through the Delmarva Peninsula, where the terrain shifts from sandy Atlantic shores to the Chesapeake Bay's marshlands. A notable fact: the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, a 17.6-mile engineering marvel connecting Virginia's Eastern Shore to the mainland, is one of only 13 bridge-tunnel complexes in the world.

Driving time averages 8–9 hours, but with stops, plan for a full day or two. The question is it worth driving Rehoboth Beach, DE to Myrtle Beach, SC is answered by the scenic diversity, historic towns, and culinary delights along the way. Use how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to craft your ideal itinerary.

The primary highways are US-1 (south from Rehoboth), US-13 (Delmarva), US-17 (Virginia), and I-95 (North Carolina). Toll costs: Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (approx. $14) and I-95 tolls in Virginia. Fuel prices vary; fill up in Delaware (lower tax) before crossing into Maryland. For how long to drive Rehoboth Beach, DE to Myrtle Beach, SC, expect 8–9 hours of driving time, but add 2–3 hours for stops.

• Best fuel stops: Wawa in Dover, DE; Sheetz in Emporia, VA; Buc-ee's in Florence, SC (opening soon).
• Rest areas: Delaware Welcome Center (northbound I-95), Maryland House (I-95), South of the Border (Dillon, SC).
• Road quality: Excellent on I-95; US-13 can be two-lane and slower; US-17 has scenic stretches but traffic lights.

The Delmarva Peninsula offers flat farmland and coastal wetlands. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel provides panoramic bay views. In Virginia, the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (US-17) offers boardwalks and birding. North Carolina's coastal plain leads to the Grand Strand's sandy beaches. Things to do between Rehoboth Beach, DE and Myrtle Beach, SC include visiting Cape Charles's historic district, Norfolk's Nauticus museum, and Wilmington's Riverwalk.

• UNESCO sites: None directly on route; Jamestown (VA) and Colonial Williamsburg are 1-hour detours.
• Local commerce: Farmers markets in Chincoteague, VA (famous for ponies); seafood shacks in Beaufort, NC.
• Climatic conditions: Mild spring/fall; hot humid summers; occasional hurricanes Aug–Oct.

I-95 is well-maintained but congested near Richmond. US-17 has lower speed limits and more intersections. For fatigue, recommended rest zones: Delaware Welcome Center (milepost 1, I-295), Virginia Rest Area (US-17 near Tappahannock), South of the Border (I-95, SC).

Family stops: Rehoboth Beach boardwalk, Assateague Island National Seashore, Norfolk Zoo, Children's Museum of Virginia (Portsmouth). Pet-friendly: Many beaches allow dogs off-season; Cape Charles Dog Beach; state parks with pet policies.

Hidden off-route spots: Tangier Island (ferry from Onancock, VA), historic Smithfield (VA ham), Lumber River State Park (NC). Culinary highlights: Thrasher's French Fries (Rehoboth), Sting-Ray's Seafood (Chincoteague), Parker's BBQ (Wilson, NC).