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Electric vehicles are fast becoming a natural choice for UK staycations, especially for coastal breaks where scenic drives, shorter distances and slower travel all work in your favour. But while EV ownership is growing, not all coastal accommodation is equally EV-friendly – and a little knowledge before you book can make a big difference to how relaxed your holiday feels.
Whether you’re planning a short seaside escape or a longer coastal stay, this guide covers what to know before booking an EV-friendly coastal cottage, from charging types and practical considerations to arrival planning and coastal driving tips. We’ve also included 12 handpicked EV-friendly cottages that are listed on Beach Stays, making it easy to find accommodation that suits both you and your vehicle.
What Does “EV-Friendly” Really Mean?
The term “EV-friendly” can cover a range of setups, so it’s important to understand what’s actually being offered at a property.
Some cottages provide:
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Dedicated EV charge points, designed specifically for vehicle charging
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Outdoor power sockets, suitable for slower, trickle charging
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Shared chargers, used by multiple properties or guests
A truly EV-friendly coastal cottage will clearly state what type of charging is available and any usage guidelines. Dedicated chargers are generally safer, faster and more convenient, particularly for longer stays or daily coastal exploring.
Why EV Charging Matters More in Coastal Locations
Coastal destinations often feel remote – and that’s part of the appeal. But it also means:
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Fewer public charging points
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Higher demand during peak holiday periods
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Longer distances between chargers in rural areas
Having charging at your accommodation removes the stress of planning every journey around public infrastructure. You can return from beach days or coastal walks knowing your car can recharge overnight, ready for the next day’s adventures.
Charging Speed: What to Expect During Your Stay
Understanding charging speed helps set expectations and plan your days.
Dedicated EV Chargers
These usually offer:
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Faster charging times
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Purpose-built safety features
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Greater reliability
Ideal if you’re driving longer distances or exploring multiple coastal locations during your stay.
Standard Sockets (Trickle Charging)
These are slower but still useful, especially if:
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You drive limited daily distances
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Your car is parked overnight for long periods
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You’re staying several nights
For short breaks, even slow charging can be enough to keep your vehicle topped up.
Usage Rules and Fair-Use Policies
Before booking, it’s worth checking:
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Whether charging is included or subject to fair-use policies
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If usage needs to be requested in advance
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Whether charging is shared with other guests
Clear communication avoids surprises and helps ensure a smooth arrival. Always confirm EV charging policies with the property manager prior to arriving at your accommodation.
12 Best EV-Friendly Coastal Cottages
1. Amble Coastal Retreat, Northumberland
Sleeps 8 – Pet Friendly
Spectacular holiday home in Amble, a the state-of-the-art, four-bedroom retreat, which is 9 miles from Alnwick in Northumberland, boasts cutting-edge design and wonderful features, located just 2.5 miles from the beach.
Dedicated EV Charging Point.
2. 48 Trerieve, Cornwall
Sleeps 8 – Pet Friendly
This brand new holiday home in the coastal village of Downderry is designed for relaxing breaks with family and friends. With four beautifully appointed bedrooms and plenty of space to unwind, it’s the ideal base for exploring Cornwall’s stunning south coast.
Dedicated EV Charging Point.
3. Brynrhedyn, Ceredigion
Sleeps 8 – Pet Friendly
Large cottage overlooking Tresaith Beach in Ceredigion with breathtaking sea views from almost every room, this is the perfect getaway for families, couples, or friends looking to enjoy the beautiful Cardigan Bay.
Dedicated EV Charging Point.
5. St Michaels, Bigbury-on-Sea
Sleeps 9 – Pet Friendly
Spacious detached holiday home in Bigbury-on-Sea just a 5 minute stroll to the sandy beach and close to the South West Coastal Path for walkers.
Dedicated EV Charging Point.
6. North Devon, Westward Ho
Sleeps 8 – Pet Friendly
Five-star luxury property in Devon with a games room, Smart TVs, and ample tech games. Close to shops, pubs, and Westward Ho! beach.
Dedicated EV Charging Point.
7. Wonderful Kilfinan Getaway, Scotland
Sleeps 9 – Pet Friendly
Cottage set within 1,200 acres of a farm estate in Argyll and Bute, surrounded by fields with animals. Up to 11 guests are welcome to stay at the five-bedroom home with access to a tennis court and fishing.
Dedicated EV Charging Point.
8. Blue Shores, Thurlestone
Sleeps 12 – Pet Friendly
A fabulous and spacious, reverse level detached holiday home a short walk from Thurlestone village. For rainy days there’s a playroom with table football, dart board, and even a surfboard rack.
Trickle charging from the mains outdoor socket.
10. Saundersfoot Holiday Cottage, West Wales
Sleeps 12 – No Pets
Large holiday home with sea views in Saundersfoot sleeping 12 guests in 6 bedrooms. It is just 400 metres from the sandy beach and well placed for reaching shops and eateries.
Dedicated EV Charging Point.
Planning Your Arrival: A Few Smart EV Tips
A little preparation makes coastal EV travel even easier:
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Arrive with a buffer rather than relying on last-minute charging
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Check your route for chargers near the destination, just in case
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Bring your own cable, even if charging is provided
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Avoid peak charging times when travelling through busy coastal towns
Coastal driving tends to be slower and more scenic, which often works in your favour for efficiency.
Environmental Considerations
Choosing an EV-friendly coastal cottage is about more than convenience. Many guests value:
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Reduced environmental impact
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Lower emissions in sensitive coastal areas
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Supporting accommodation adapting to sustainable travel
Pairing EV travel with a walkable coastal location is one of the most eco-conscious ways to enjoy a seaside break.
A Smarter Way to Travel the Coast
Booking an EV-friendly coastal cottage takes the guesswork out of electric vehicle travel, letting you focus on sea air, coastal walks and well-earned downtime. With clear expectations, a little planning and the right accommodation, travelling by EV can feel effortless – even in the UK’s most beautiful and remote coastal spots.
At Beach Stays, we’re continually expanding our collection of EV-friendly coastal cottages, making it easier than ever to combine sustainable travel with unforgettable seaside escapes. Choose your location, plug in, and enjoy the coast at your own pace.