Why More Guests with EVs are Visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast

couple walking up to their charging electric vehicle

October 23, 2024

We see our share of visitors along the Alabama Gulf Coast, coming from all over to enjoy our beautiful beaches. While many travel by plane, others opt to drive, commuting from nearby communities and neighboring states—a growing portion traveling in electric vehicles (EVs). If you’re planning to visit Gulf Shores or Orange Beach in an EV or thinking about renting one, you can rest easy knowing your trip will be hassle-free!

Why People Are Making the Long Haul with EVs

It’s no wonder people are taking longer trips with their EVs—it’s easier than ever! The growing infrastructure allows travelers to explore with fewer interruptions. With extended ranges, lower fuel costs, and one of the most sustainable means of transport available, it’s a win for the environment AND your wallet. Plus, modern EVs also boast roomy and comfortable interiors, making long drives more enjoyable. Whether you’re headed to the Alabama Gulf Coast or beyond, now you can cover more miles between charges!

Vacation Rentals with EV Chargers Are On the Rise

Charging stations aren’t just popping at shopping centers, they’re also appearing at select vacation rentals, so you can charge while you sleep. While you have many options for accommodations, why not opt for a beautiful home in a beachside community with an EV charging station? Ocean Edge is an excellent option, featuring luxurious, family-friendly vacation rentals and essential EV charging stations. With a community pool, beach chair and umbrella rentals, and 300 feet of private beach, Ocean Edge offers the ultimate in convenience and relaxation. It’s also centrally located and near fun activities!

Charging Stations are Everywhere

Charging stations are popping up in all the right places, including shopping plazas and restaurants, making it convenient to grab dinner or shop while powering up. With easy-to-use navigation apps like Waze and Google Maps and helpful online platforms, including Electrify America, PlugShare, and Charge Finder, finding a convenient place to charge along the way or at your destination is a breeze. Whether you’re an experienced EV driver or renting for the first time, you’ll have no trouble staying powered up and ready to explore!

Today’s EVs Offer More Range, Less Charge Time

Not too long ago, taking a long road trip in an EV meant frequent stops to charge up, and travel range anxiety was a common concern among drivers. Improvements in battery life and shorter charging times have made it easier than ever for eco-conscious travelers to make the trip. These improvements have changed the game when it comes to road trip planning. Instead of stressing over charging station locations, you can kick back and enjoy the ride, no matter how far the destination!

Mapping Out a Route is Fun

Planning for a trip in an EV can be a simple and fun part of your vacation prep, especially with plenty of EV charging stations along your route. Let the kids help plot charging stops along the way and pick out a few fun things to see and do nearby. They’ll enjoy being involved in the planning and just might surprise you with their suggestions. It’s a great way to create excitement for the journey ahead while turning charging breaks into mini adventures. Remember that peak hours and Sunday afternoons tend to be busier, so build in some extra time, and don’t be afraid to add in a few remote charging stations. You might just find a few pleasant surprises off the beaten path!

Things to Do When You Arrive

Once you’ve plugged in your EV at your home away from home, it’s time to dive into some fun! Whether you’re interested in relaxing on our pristine beaches, exploring coastal wildlife on a nature tour, or paddleboarding along the peaceful waterways, the Alabama Gulf Coast offers something for every kind of traveler.

The Beach

A trip to the beach should definitely be at the top of your beach vacation checklist. With over a dozen beach access points in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you’ll have no trouble finding your spot in the sand. Once there, spend the day collecting seashells, building sandcastles, or kicking back in a chair and soaking up those glorious rays!

Outdoor Activities

With gorgeous weather year-round, hiking and biking are popular pastimes on the Alabama Gulf Coast. You’ll find plenty of places to fish or spend the day paddleboarding on Lake Shelby. With the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail and the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge nearby, you’ll never run out of things to see and do!

Nearby Attractions

If you’re a first-time visitor, you might be surprised to see so many kid-friendly activities in the area. The Hangout is a fun place to gather for food and live entertainment or tour historic Fort Morgan. Just a short drive away, OWA boasts rides, a theater, and live entertainment, sure to bring you back for repeat visits. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo features dozens of animals, and no visit would be complete without a trip to The Wharf. Whether riding the Ferris Wheel, hitting the arcade, or browsing the shops, you’re guaranteed a fun outing and can even charge your EV there!

Fantastic Restaurants

We could go on and on about all the excellent places to eat in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Whether looking for a breakfast spot before heading out to explore or on the hunt for the best gumbo around, you’ll find no shortage of restaurants. You can even charge up at Lulu’s in Gulf Shores while the kids hit the ropes course!

No matter where you plan to eat or how you spend your time here, we know you’re in for an incredible vacation. Now that you know you’ll find plenty of EV charging stations along the way and can charge while here, traveling to the Alabama Gulf Coast has never been easier!

Why People Are Making the Long Haul with EVs