NEWS & RESOURCES
Little girl sitting in back of family car loaded up with supplies for beach.
Blog, Carpooling, News

Summer on the Middle Peninsula is packed with sunshine, seafood and spontaneous adventures. From beach days at Gwynn’s Island to backyard BBQs with friends, there’s always somewhere to go.

That’s where carpooling comes in (not just for work ride sharing)—and it’s easier (and more fun) than you might think!

Why Carpool This Summer?

  • Save on Gas: Split the cost and keep more cash for crab cakes and snow cones.

  • Less Parking Stress: Fewer cars = more space, especially at popular beaches or events.

  • Good Company: Turn your ride into part of the fun—catch up, swap playlists, and maybe even plan the next hangout.

  • Greener Travels: Every shared ride helps reduce emissions and protect the beautiful Chesapeake Bay region we all love.

Headed to the Beach?

Whether you’re off to Bethel Beach, Yorktown or another local waterfront spot, beach parking can get tight (especially on beautiful days). Plan ahead with friends or neighbors and coordinate one vehicle. Load up your chairs, towels and coolers—and hit the road together.

Pro tip: Bring a small bin for sandy shoes and wet gear, so your carpool crew rides home in comfort.

Backyard BBQs & Summer Gatherings

Attending a cookout or family reunion? Reach out to others going and suggest riding together. It’s a great way to:

  • Avoid multiple cars clogging driveways or rural roads.

  • Arrive together and avoid the “Who’s already there?” group text confusion.

  • Keep the party vibes rolling from driveway to destination.

Make Carpooling Part of the Fun

This summer, let’s make every trip a little easier—and a lot more social. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, bonfires or just a good hotdog, carpooling brings people together before the party even starts.

MidPenRideShare is a free service operated by the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission for residents, workers, commuters, and tourists in Virginia’s Middle peninsula (Counties of Essex, Gloucester, King and Queen, King William, Mathews, and Middlesex and the towns of Tappahannock, Urbanna, and West Point).
The Commission has partnered with the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) and their Virginia-wide ConnectingVA program to provide free ridematching to find carpools, vanpools, and all forms of public transportation, trip planning, and information on park-and-ride lots, bike share services, electric vehicle charging stations, and rewards.