Electric Feel

BY KIRSTEN JONES NEFF

Highway 1 winds its way along California’s scenic coastline, threading itself between wild white sand beaches and open stretches of farmland and wildflower dotted coastal ranges, making the drive itself, from either north or south, a main attraction. Aside from that, it doesn’t hurt that the Central Coast cities of Monterey and Carmel are picturesque and wellequipped for the ever-growing number of visitors who need an EV charge.

“The number of EVs we're helping clients select has increased tremendously over the past five years, from around 10 percent of new cars delivered to over 30 percent,” says David Shapiro, CEO of

Cartelligent, a concierge car buying service based in Sausalito. “It's worth noting that all chargers are not the same. When you're on a road trip, you want to find a fast charger in order to minimize the amount of time it takes.” Fortunately, EV apps like

Plugshare display a landscape dotted with various electric vehicle charging options within a 30-mile radius of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea and Carmel Valley.

In Monterey, the Hyatt Regency Monterey as well as several hotels along Cannery Row near the Monterey Bay Aquarium in downtown Monterey have charge stations, among them the Monterey Plaza Hotel and Spa, the Victorian Inn and Intercontinental’s Clement Hotel. Travelers with children can charge while enjoying the Monterey Zoo in nearby Salinas and, in the opposite direction, toward Pebble Beach Golf Course, the Inn at Spanish Bay and Casa Palmero offer charge stations for guests.

In Carmel-by-the-Sea, Hyatt Carmel Highlands near Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and Carmel Mission Inn have EV charging stations on the property. Inland, in the majestic Carmel Valley, known for fine wineries, golf courses, dining and boutique shopping, travelers will find charge options at Carmel Valley Ranch, Quail Lodge and Bernardus Lodge and Spa.