Marsh Causeway Road
Marsh Causeway Road, known as Rt. 615 on the maps, is the only road to the island. It's the same as Princess Anne Road; it just changes names when you cross the North Carolina border. Around the turn of the century they began building the causeway so they wouldn't have to shuttle back and forth by boat. It wasn't until the thirties that oyster shell and other material was finally trucked in and used to solidify the road bed. As you drive down the road you'll see the ditch that was formed as the mud was piled up. Don't look at the ditch too long or you may end up window deep in it. The road is fairly narrow and curvy. The construction of the causeway is part of Knotts Island's interesting history.
If you're coming from Virginia Beach, you just need to find Pungo. There are signs to help you on General Booth Boulevard and some on Holland Road near the municipal center. Anyone in Virginia Beach can point you to Pungo. Once you find it, take Princess Anne Road south for about 25 minutes. You'll start seeing some of these sights. If you don't turn off anywhere you have to get to the island.
This is the view that you can expect for a few miles. It's tempting to slow down a look around but don't forget that this is a high speed thoroughfare. Local traffic must be able to pass freely. The speed limit is 55 unless other wise marked for certain curves. Around the bridge, it is lowered to 45. |
We don't recommend that you park on the side of the road. You will see cars parked along the grass shoulders while people fish and watch for birds, but be warned- The causeway was constructed on a waterway and is always nearly saturated. Wind driven high tides or even a little rain can cause hazardous soft spots. Animal burrows and tunnels can sink, leaving a vehicle immobilized. There is also a hazard when car doors swing out into traffic. It is best to stop at the observation deck.
When you come to the sign that lowers the
speed limit to 45, you are approaching the bridge which
crosses Corey's Ditch. It was built in 1936. Please be careful going over the bridge. Fishing on Knotts Island is a favored pastime and it's usually busy with people tossing lines out. Stop, if there's room on the shoulder, and see what's biting. A fishing license can be purchased at the market. Big striped bass have been landed here and all kinds of other fish abound. |
After you pass through a patch of woods and cypresses, you'll see the welcoming sign. You made it.
Just bear right at the fork in the road and you'll be headed to the heart of our island. The posters used on this welcome sign are designed by local school children.
Enjoy your drive.