Big Sur Gas Station Owner Explains $10 Per Gallon Prices

Gorda by the Sea's generator-powered operations force high fuel costs in remote California hamlet.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:49pm

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A geometric abstract illustration using bold shapes in shades of blue, green, and gray to conceptually represent the high costs of operating a remote gas station on generators.A remote gas station in Big Sur battles soaring fuel costs to power its generators, underscoring the economic challenges facing isolated communities.Los Angeles Today

The owner of Gorda by the Sea, a gas station and mini-mart in the remote Big Sur region of California, is charging $9.99 per gallon of gasoline due to the station's reliance on generators for power. The owner, Leo Flores, says he's not trying to price gouge but rather is facing high operational costs to run the generators, which consume 5-6 gallons of gas per hour. Flores has considered solar power but says the upfront costs are prohibitive, and he's worried that raising prices further could put him out of business.

Why it matters

This story highlights the economic challenges facing small, isolated businesses that lack access to reliable grid power. Flores' gas station is the only option for drivers in the remote Big Sur area, and his high fuel prices are a direct result of having to generate his own electricity. This issue is likely to become more common as climate change and extreme weather events disrupt power infrastructure in vulnerable regions.

The details

Gorda by the Sea is the lone gas station for at least 12 miles along Highway 1 in the Big Sur region. Owner Leo Flores says the station's digital pumps are maxed out at $9.99 per gallon, as that's the highest price the software can display. Flores insists he's not price gouging, but rather facing high operational costs to run the station's generators, which consume 5-6 gallons of gas per hour. The entire Gorda by the Sea community, including the mini-mart, cafe, hotel, and nearby cabins, all rely on Flores' generators for power since there is no access to an outside electrical grid. Flores has considered solar power but says the upfront costs are prohibitive, and he worries that raising prices even higher could put him out of business.

  • Gorda by the Sea has charged $9.99 per gallon of gas since at least April 2026.
  • Highway 1 was closed for 3 years due to landslides starting in 2023, severely impacting Flores' business.

The players

Leo Flores

The owner of Gorda by the Sea, a gas station and mini-mart in the remote Big Sur region of California.

Gorda by the Sea

A gas station and mini-mart located in the remote Big Sur region of California, the only such facility for at least 12 miles along Highway 1.

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What they’re saying

“'The software only goes to $10. I know, sometimes someone wants to make a good story because of it, but we have to tell you why.'”

— Leo Flores, Owner, Gorda by the Sea

“'When I explain why to people, they're happy to pay what I ask them. It costs me more to make my own electricity.'”

— Leo Flores, Owner, Gorda by the Sea

“'If the highway is closed in both directions, I'm screwed.'”

— Leo Flores, Owner, Gorda by the Sea

What’s next

Flores is considering investing in solar power to reduce his reliance on gas-guzzling generators, but the upfront costs remain a major barrier. Local and state officials may also explore ways to support small, isolated businesses like Gorda by the Sea that face unique infrastructure challenges.

The takeaway

This story highlights the economic pressures facing small businesses in remote areas that lack access to reliable grid power. Flores' high gas prices are a direct result of having to generate his own electricity, underscoring the need for innovative solutions and government support to ensure the viability of these vital community hubs.