Santa Monica Parking Information
Santa Monica is a very pedestrian-friendly destination and visitors are encouraged to go car-free (check out other transportation methods), but if you find yourself in need of parking information, here are some tips for Santa Monica parking at the beach, downtown and at metered parking spaces.
For a map of public parking in Santa Monica, take a look at the Official Santa Monica Visitors Map or visit the City of Santa Monica’s website. Please remember to always keep your valuables out of sight by taking them with you or securing them in your vehicle’s trunk.
Santa Monica Beach Parking
Santa Monica beach parking is broken down into the following three zones:
- Southern Zone: Lot 4 South and Lot 5 South
- Central Zone: Lot 1 North (also referred to as the “beach lot”), Lot 3 North, Lot 1 South, Lot 2 South and Lot 3 South
- Northern Zone: Lot 4 North through Lot 9 North
Real-time parking information and a downloadable app are available through the City. Many Santa Monica beach parking lots offer electric plug-in options and are:
- Open from sunrise to sunset (except for Lot 1 North which is open from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.)
- $7 to $18 per day (price varies based on day and season; no in and out privileges)
Santa Monica Pier Parking
A few other parking options exist for access to the Santa Monica Pier and nearby Santa Monica Beach:
- The Pier Deck Parking Lot: Limited parking is typically available Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Civic Center Garage: This Santa Monica parking garage is located just off the 10 West freeway exit on 4th and Olympic across from City Hall.
- The Metro E Line: If you want a convenient way to access the Santa Monica Pier, try parking at one of the Metro Expo stop parking garages and hopping on the train. Parking starts at $3 and since there are no overnight penalties, they are a great place for extended exploration throughout Santa Monica.
Need-to-Know Parking Info
Santa Monica has on-street parking meters throughout the city, all of which accept payment via coins or credit card.
Street Meters in Santa Monica
On-street parking meters and pay machines at City lots are typically $2 per hour in the Downtown and Beach Meter Zones and $1 per hour in all other Citywide Meter Zones.
To avoid a ticket when meter parking, keep in mind that there is no free parking in Santa Monica on Sundays, so don’t forget to pay the meter on your weekend outing.
Santa Monica Parking Permits & ADA Parking
Santa Monica parking for visitors with Disability Placards or Plates is free in the above-mentioned lot zones.
Visitors who need special parking permits for any reason should contact the city’s parking department for permitting options.
Electric Vehicle Parking
If you have an electric car, there are several places for you to charge your vehicle while exploring the city by foot! Look for charging stations at one of the city’s more than 20 locations.
Additionally, there are EVgo DC fast charging stations located at Lot 29 , Lot 27 and the Civic Center Parking Structure.
View all of the city’s EV charging ports.
Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Monica Parking
Does Santa Monica Beach Have Free Parking?
Santa Monica Beach does not have free parking. Santa Monica Beach has many different parking lots as well as available street parking. Parking costs range from $6-$15 for full-day parking.
How Do You Pay for Street Parking in Santa Monica?
For on-street and public lot parking in Santa Monica, look for meters or parking ticket machines accepting credit cards or coins.
Can You Park for Free with a Handicap Placard in Santa Monica?
Public parking in California is free at any metered spot with a disability placard. Parking in beach lots is free on non-holidays and weekdays with visible placard. For beach lot parking at all other times, please refer to the City of Santa Monica’s parking page for the most up-to-date parking information.
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