‘They probably could charge $20’

Drivers in Big Sur are facing a hefty price tag when it comes to filling up their tanks. The remote gas station in Gorda-by-the-Sea is charging nearly $10 a gallon, leaving motorists shocked and scrambling for alternatives.

With the state average already at $5.89 a gallon, Gorda’s gas prices feel like a punch to the gut for travelers passing through. The station owner, Leo Flores, insists that the high prices are not a result of gouging, but rather a consequence of the station’s isolated location.

Located along a rugged stretch of Highway 1, Gorda’s gas station operates off generators and relies on fuel that has to be trucked in across miles of coastline. Every logistical hurdle drives the price up, with the pumps unable to display anything higher than $9.99, the technical limit on the station’s system.

For drivers heading north or south, Gorda’s station is often the only option for miles around. This scarcity of alternatives forces motorists to choose between paying the premium or risking running on empty. Many opt to fill up just enough to make it to the next station, rather than topping off their tanks.

Despite the steep prices, Flores maintains that he is providing a lifeline for travelers in a remote area where few others dare to operate. The station serves as a crucial pit stop for those navigating the beautiful but rugged coastline of Big Sur.

While the cost of gas at Gorda’s station may be exorbitant, for many drivers, it’s a necessary expense to ensure they can continue their journey safely. As one driver put it, “They probably could charge $20, and if you have to get gas, you have to get gas.” With limited options and the specter of running on fumes, the choice is clear for those passing through this isolated corner of California.