Each category below contains the most direct route as well as alternative routes for those times when traffic is expected to be heavy. Routes to the Southern Beaches and Islands include alternatives for those seeking a slower, more open-air experience. 

From Washington, D.C., Richmond and Points North

I-95 South to Richmond 
I-64 East to Norfolk / Virginia Beach 
The Chesapeake Expressway Toll Road (VA - 168)
or Battlefield Blvd exit - VA Business 168 South 
US 158 East to Kitty Hawk 

Alternative Route From Points North
I-95 South to Richmond 
I-64 East to Hampton, VA 
I-664 South to I-64 West toward Norfolk / Virginia Beach 
US 17 South to South Mills, NC 
NC 343 to Camden, NC 
US 158 East to Kitty Hawk 

From West and South to the Northern Beaches 

West and South to the Northern Beaches via Elizabeth City
Exit I-95 in Rocky Mount 
US 64 East to Williamston 
US 17 North via Edenton to Elizabeth City 
US 158 East to Kitty Hawk 

West and South to the Northern Beaches via Plymouth
Exit I-95 in Rocky Mount 
US 64 East to Williamston 
US 64 via Plymouth to Manteo 

From West and South to the Southern Beaches and Islands 

West and South to the Southern Beaches and Islands
Exit I-95 in Rocky Mount 
US 64 East to Williamston 
US 64 via Plymouth to Manteo 
NC 12 South from Whalebone to Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island.
Free ferry from Hatteras to Ocracoke. Crossing time approximately 40 minutes. Call 1-800-BY FERRY for departure schedules. 

Alternative Route to the Southern Beaches and Islands - Ferry Route
US 17 North from Wilmington and / or US 70 East from New Bern 
US 70 East to NC 12 North at Cedar Island 
Cedar Island Ferry to Ocracoke Island. 
Crossing time approximately 2 1/4 hours. One way fares apply. Call 1-800 BY FERRY for latest prices, restrictions and scheduled departure times. 
NC 12 North to Cape Hatteras via Hatteras-Ocracoke Ferry (crossing time 40 minutes - no fare)


Chesapeake Expressway to the Outer Banks 

A new four lane Toll Road thru Chesapeake is now open.The 16 mile highway known as The Chesapeake Expressway connects Interstate 64 around Norfolk with North Carolina's new five lane highway 168 to the Outer Banks.
The new toll road incorporates Virginia's first "Smart Tag" electronic toll collection system for frequent travelers. This new open road technology allows Smart Tag users to go through dedicated toll lanes at 45 mph.

Tolls range from $2.00 each way for a two axle vehicle and $3.00 for three axle vehicles up to a maximum of $6.00 for 6 axels. A discount program offers savings to frequent travelers which may lower costs to as little as $.050 depending upon the options selected.

For further information and questions about the Chesapeake Expressway or the Discount Program, you are asked to contact:

Chesapeake Expressway 
168 Toll Plaza Road
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Hours of Operation: 8:30 am - 5 pm
Monday - Friday
Phone: (757) 204-0010
Fax: (757) 204-0015

Old Business 168 (the Battlefield Blvd. Exit off I-64) in Virginia is still open and available for those seeking to avoid the toll or who need fuel and other services.