If you’re visiting San Diego and wondering where to park in San Diego without paying exorbitant tourist prices, you’ve come to the right place. San Diego is a city of vibrant neighborhoods, stunning beaches, and endless attractions—but parking can be a headache if you stick to obvious tourist spots. Luckily, there are 13 low-cost parking secrets that locals use to save money and time while still getting you close to all the action. Whether you’re exploring Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, La Jolla, or Mission Beach, these tips will help you park smarter, walk farther less, and spend more on tacos, craft beer, and scenic views.
Why Knowing Where to Park in San Diego Matters
San Diego’s popularity as a weekend getaway destination means parking fees can quickly eat into your budget. The difference between parking in an expensive tourist lot and a local-approved cheap spot can be $20–$40 per day.
Key Takeaways:
- Locals avoid expensive garages in tourist-heavy areas.
- Street parking rules can vary by neighborhood—always check the signs.
- Planning ahead lets you spend more time exploring and less time circling blocks.
For navigating San Diego without a car, see Everything You Need to Know About Transportation in San Diego.
Downtown San Diego Parking Secrets
Downtown is the hub for visitors, but it’s also the most expensive. Knowing where to park in San Diego downtown can save you a small fortune.
Off-Market Garages
Some garages are tucked away in office buildings or residential lots that allow public parking after 5 PM or on weekends.
- Rates: $5–$10/hour
- Tip: Use apps like SpotHero or ParkMe to find hidden lots
Metered Street Parking
Meters are often overlooked because tourists prefer garages, but downtown streets have 2-hour and 4-hour limits with rates around $2/hour.
Tip: Always check the time limits and pay via the ParkMobile app to avoid tickets.
Gaslamp Quarter Hacks
Gaslamp Quarter is iconic for nightlife, but parking can be pricey. Here’s how to find the cheapest parking in San Diego’s Gaslamp.
- Seaport Village Parking Lot: $15 max/day
- Off-street lots near 5th Avenue: $10–$12/day
- Early bird garage specials: Arrive before 10 AM to snag $5–$8 rates
- Pro Tip: Walk 5–10 minutes from nearby neighborhoods for free or cheap street parking.
Pair this with a Gaslamp itinerary from San Diego Public Transit Guide.
Balboa Park Parking Secrets
Balboa Park draws crowds for museums, gardens, and the zoo. Finding low-cost parking in Balboa Park is key.
Free Street Parking
- Many side streets offer free parking early in the morning or after 6 PM.
- Tip: Use Google Maps’ “Street View” to scout spots before arrival.
Park-and-Ride Lots
- Park at a nearby lot and walk or bike to the park.
- Cost: $3–$5/day
La Jolla & Coastal Parking
For beachgoers, where to park in San Diego near La Jolla can make or break your day.
- Prospect Street & Girard Avenue: Paid meters, $1–$2/hour
- Ellen Browning Scripps Park: Free but fills up fast; arrive early
- Parking Lots at La Jolla Shores: $10/day maximum
- Insider Tip: Walk a block inland for free street parking.
Mission Beach & Pacific Beach Parking
Beaches are prime spots for tourist-priced lots. Save money with local hacks:
- North Mission Beach Street Parking: Free but limited; arrive early
- PB Drive & Garnet Avenue Lots: $10–$15/day, cheaper than private garages
- Residential Streets: Often free after 6 PM; respect posted signs
Pro Tip: Arrive early in summer weekends to snag the best free or low-cost parking spots.
Insider Local Hacks
Here are some expert tips for all neighborhoods:
- Use parking apps: SpotHero, ParkMe, and ParkMobile to find hidden deals.
- Time your visits: Early mornings or weekday afternoons yield the cheapest rates.
- Walk a few blocks: Saving $15/day is worth a 5–10 minute walk.
- Check hotel or restaurant validations: Some restaurants in Gaslamp and La Jolla validate parking.
Pair your parking with our San Diego Trolley Guide for car-free adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are there free parking spots in San Diego?
Yes, mainly on residential streets, some side streets near Balboa Park, and early-morning beach streets. Always check posted signs.
Q2: How much do parking garages cost in tourist areas?
$15–$35/day for downtown and Gaslamp Quarter. Off-street lots and meters nearby can be half that.
Q3: Can I park near beaches for free?
Yes, but you may need to walk a block inland or arrive early to secure a spot.
Q4: Are apps reliable for finding cheap parking?
Yes, SpotHero and ParkMe update in real-time and include local insider deals.
Q5: Any tips for avoiding tickets?
Always check meter rules, posted signs, and residential permits. Paying via apps helps track time limits.
Conclusion
Now that you know where to park in San Diego, you can explore the city like a local without overpaying. From downtown garages to La Jolla streets and beachside lots, these 13 insider tips give you the freedom to focus on tacos, scenic walks, craft breweries, and coastal hikes rather than circling for overpriced parking.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Check out Everything You Need to Know About Transportation in San Diego to pair your parking strategy with buses, trolleys, ferries, and more.
