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Where to Find EV Chargers in Myrtle Beach

By Viola Travers · Practical Services & Civic Guide

Public charging stations in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach has public charging stations scattered across the city, though they are not as dense as in larger metros. The easiest way to find them is through the PlugShare app or website, which shows real-time availability and lets you filter by charger type. You can also search ChargeHub or the US Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center, which lists every public station in the area with details on speed, connector types, and whether it costs money.

Most public chargers in Myrtle Beach are Level 2 (slower, takes 4 to 10 hours for a full charge) rather than DC fast chargers. You will find them at shopping centers, parking garages, hotels, and municipal lots. Some are free; others charge by the hour or by kilowatt-hour. The cost and availability change, so check the app before you drive there — a station listed as "available" may be occupied or out of service when you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • PlugShare and ChargeHub show you every public charger near you, whether it is working, and what it costs.
  • Most chargers in Myrtle Beach are Level 2 (slower), not DC fast chargers, so plan for 4 to 10 hours if you need a full charge.
  • Hotels, shopping centers, and municipal parking lots host the majority of public chargers in the area.
  • Charging costs vary by location and network — some are free, others charge hourly or per kilowatt-hour.
  • Membership in networks like Electrify America or Evgo can lower per-use costs if you charge regularly.

Charging networks and membership programs

Several national networks operate chargers in and around Myrtle Beach. Electrify America runs DC fast chargers at locations like Walmart and travel plazas. Evgo operates Level 2 and fast chargers at various sites. ChargePoint is the largest Level 2 network and covers shopping centers and parking lots. Each network has its own app and payment system, though most accept credit cards at the charger itself.

If you charge regularly, joining a network's membership program can save money. Electrify America and Evgo offer monthly or annual passes that reduce the per-minute or per-kilowatt-hour rate. ChargePoint membership is free but gives you reserved spots and lower rates. Compare the cost of membership against how often you actually use paid chargers — if you mostly charge at home, membership may not be worth it.

Charging at hotels and accommodations

Many hotels in Myrtle Beach, especially newer or upscale properties, have EV chargers in their parking lots. Call ahead to ask whether chargers are available, whether they are free for guests, and whether you need to reserve one. Some hotels offer charging as a complimentary perk; others charge a fee or require you to be a registered guest.

If you are staying in Myrtle Beach for more than a night or two, hotel charging can be convenient because you charge while you sleep. However, hotel chargers are usually Level 2, so expect 6 to 10 hours for a full charge. If you need a faster charge to leave town quickly, look for a DC fast charger at a nearby Walmart or travel plaza instead.

Home charging installation and costs

If you own or rent a home in Myrtle Beach, installing a home charger is usually faster and cheaper than relying on public stations. A Level 2 home charger costs between $500 and $2,500 installed, depending on your electrical panel and how far the charger is from it. Installation typically takes a few hours to a full day. You will need a licensed electrician — do not attempt this yourself.

Before you hire an electrician, check whether your home's electrical service can handle a dedicated 240-volt circuit. Older homes may need a panel upgrade, which adds cost and time. Some electric utilities in South Carolina offer rebates or incentives for home charger installation; contact your local utility to ask. Federal tax credits for home chargers have changed over time, so check the current rules before you buy.

Charging while traveling through Myrtle Beach

If you are passing through Myrtle Beach and need a quick charge, DC fast chargers are your best option. They add 100 to 200 miles of range in 20 to 40 minutes. Look for Electrify America or Evgo stations along major routes like US 17 or I-95. Download the PlugShare app before you leave home so you can find chargers without relying on cell service.

Plan your route to include a charger stop, especially if your vehicle's range is under 200 miles. Many travelers charge while grabbing food or coffee, so factor in a 30-minute stop. If you are towing a trailer or driving in cold weather, your range will be lower, so charge more often than you think you need to.

Troubleshooting chargers that are broken or occupied

Public chargers break down, get blocked by parked cars, or malfunction without warning. If a charger is not working, report it through the app you used to find it — PlugShare, ChargeHub, or the network's own app. Most networks have a phone number on the charger itself if you need immediate help.

If a charger is occupied and you need to charge, move to the next nearest station rather than waiting. Charging times are long enough that waiting for someone else to finish is rarely worth your time. Keep a list of backup chargers in your phone so you always have a plan B.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a membership to use public chargers in Myrtle Beach?

No. Most public chargers accept credit cards at the charger itself, so you can pay per use. Membership programs lower the cost if you charge frequently, but they are optional. Check the app to see which chargers are free and which charge a fee before you drive there.

How long does it take to charge an EV at a Level 2 charger?

A Level 2 charger typically adds 25 to 30 miles of range per hour, so a full charge takes 4 to 10 hours depending on your vehicle's battery size. DC fast chargers are much quicker — 20 to 40 minutes for a partial charge — but they are less common in Myrtle Beach.

Can I charge my EV overnight at a hotel for free?

Many hotels offer free charging to guests, but policies vary. Call the hotel before you book to confirm chargers are available, whether they are free, and whether you need to reserve one. Some hotels charge a fee or require you to be a registered guest.

What should I do if the charger I planned to use is broken?

Report it through the app you used to find it so other drivers know it is out of service. Then locate the nearest working charger using PlugShare or ChargeHub. Keep a list of backup chargers in your area so you always have alternatives.

Is it cheaper to install a home charger or use public chargers?

Home charging is cheaper per kilowatt-hour if you charge regularly, but the upfront installation cost is $500 to $2,500. If you charge at home most nights and only use public chargers occasionally, home charging pays for itself within a few years. If you rarely charge, public chargers may be more economical.