Parking at La Jolla Shores: Prime Spots You’ll Want to Pull In Near the Beach
If you’ve ever tried to score a spot near the sand, you know La Jolla Shores parking is basically an Olympic sport. Between beachgoers, surfers, and brunch crowds, finding a prime space isn’t just convenient—it’s a strategic win.
Navigating parking at La Jolla Shores doesn’t have to be a headache, though. Whether you’re arriving early or pulling in mid-afternoon, knowing exactly where to look makes all the difference.
You’re about to get the ultimate breakdown—no guesswork, no drama, just parking spots that deliver. Let’s make your beach day stress-free before your toes even hit the sand! Keep reading because this list will save your whole trip!
La Jolla Shores Parking Spots
You don’t have to be a local to park like one—La Jolla Shores parking gets easier with a little strategy and a solid backup plan.
Whether you’re coming for the surf, the sand, or the snacks, knowing where to pull in is half the battle. Now’s the time to start planning your full beach escape with confidence.
Use Tripster to book the best San Diego attractions and hotels, from beachfront stays to whale-watching adventures. Score your spot, secure your deals, and skip the stress of last-minute logistics. Make parking the easiest part of your day—and let your La Jolla beach trip begin!
Kellogg Park
Besides a playground with swings & slides, this beachfront park offers grassy areas & sunset views.
This is the closest thing La Jolla has to a beachfront jackpot. The Kellogg Park Parking Lot is the main staging ground for anyone heading straight to the sand. As one of the largest parking lots in the area, it’s located right behind the park and playground at the north end of La Jolla Shores beach. It opens at 4 a.m., making it clutch for early risers, surfers, or sunrise chasers.
But be warned: this lot fills faster than a summer camp sign-up list. There’s a walkway leading directly to the sand, so no awkward gear-lugging across traffic.
El Paseo Grande
Looking for free streets parking just a stone’s throw from the beach? Try El Paseo Grande—but bring your parallel parking A-game.
This is one of the closer residential streets, lined with coveted spots that vanish quickly on weekends. It’s peaceful, walkable, and super convenient—if you get lucky. Parking here means you’re about a five-minute stroll to the beach, so grab that spot if you see it. There are no meters, but signage changes fast, so read carefully.
Vallecitos
Tucked just inland, Vallecitos is another underrated parking goldmine for anyone hunting for parking La Jolla Shores style: cheap, residential, and low-stress (well, mostly). It’s quieter than its beach-adjacent siblings and still within walking distance to the sand. If you can’t score a spot closer, this is a great fallback plan.
You’ll need to check street signs to make sure you’re not accidentally in permit-only territory. But overall, this is one of the better-kept secrets for beachgoers trying to dodge the crowds.
Avenida De La Playa
Let’s talk beach access meets burrito run. Avenida de la Playa is lined with shops, taco joints, and beach rentals—and yes, parking.This is one of the busiest corridors off Torrey Pines Road, with a mix of free and metered spaces. Because of the foot traffic and restaurant buzz, spots turn over more often than you’d think.
Still, timing is everything, and early birds will have the most luck. It’s an easy, direct walk to the beach, and the vibe is very SoCal casual with sunscreen and flip-flops energy.
The Shores Restaurant
Inside the La Jolla Shores Hotel, this refined, oceanfront staple dishes up unique Californian fare. Dining here? You’ve got a parking perk. The Shores Restaurant shares a lot with its neighboring hotel and provides validation for patrons.
This is a clutch move for those grabbing lunch or sunset dinner before or after their time on the sand. While technically not public parking, its address is convenient for anyone making a stop at the restaurant or beach-adjacent events.
Just don’t count on it if you’re not planning to dine—enforcement is real. Still, it’s prime real estate with immediate parking La Jolla Shores beach access.
La Jolla Shores Hotel
Casual hotel offering airy rooms with balconies & iPod docks, plus a pool & free shuttle service. The La Jolla Shores Hotel knows it’s got one of the most desirable lots in town—and it acts accordingly. This isn’t general public parking, but if you’re a guest or restaurant visitor, you’ve got solid access.
Right off the beach, the La Jolla Shores parking lot connected to the hotel is worth considering if you’ve got reservations or know someone staying there. Even if you’re just dropping someone off, it’s a clean, direct route to the beach and nearby paths. Valet services can also offer a workaround if you’re in a pinch.
La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club
Upscale, seaside resort with airy rooms, plus championship tennis courts, a private beach & a pool. This one’s a little trickier. La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club is private, meaning their La Jolla Shores beach parking is only for members or registered guests.
That said, it’s stunning and right on the sand—so if you have any kind of access (membership, dining reservation, etc.), definitely take advantage. It’s also good to know about this option in case you’re considering upgrading your next stay with beachside access.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Technically not a beach parking lot, but hear us out. The Birch Aquarium at Scripps offers a large paid parking lot that’s about a 15-minute downhill walk to the beach. If you’re already planning a visit to the aquarium (or if all other spots are packed), this is a reliable Plan B. The keyword here is “paid”—but you get peace of mind in return.
Great signage, ample space, and the added bonus of ocean views from the lot itself. It’s not the first place people think of when it comes to parking at La Jolla Shores, but it definitely belongs on the radar.
La Jolla Village Square
Shopping center with chain stores for clothes & household goods, casual eateries & a movie theater. If all else fails? Go inland. La Jolla Village Square is a shopping center that’s further away, but it has loads of free parking.
From here, it’s about a 10-minute drive or a longer walk to the beach—so it’s best paired with a Rideshare or trolley drop-off. People use this lot as a launchpad for beach days when local streets are full. It’s the “Hail Mary” option of La Jolla Shores parking, but still better than circling endlessly.
La Jolla Shores Parking FAQs
Does La Jolla Beach Have Free Parking?
Yes, but free street parking is limited and strictly monitored by Parking Enforcement, especially along nearby residential streets like El Paseo Grande and Vallecitos. Always check signage carefully to avoid tickets or towing.
Where Is the Best Place to Park at La Jolla Shores?
Hands down, the best spot is Kellogg Park, which offers the closest access to the sand, playground, and picnic areas. It’s the go-to location for locals and tourists who want stress-free beach access.
Do You Have to Pay to Go to La Jolla Beach?
Nope—La Jolla Cove is completely free to visit, and the same goes for the rest of the shoreline, including La Jolla Shores. You can stroll, swim, or sunbathe without spending a dime.
Can You Swim in La Jolla Shores?
Absolutely—this beach has designated swim and surf areas, making it one of the safest and most popular spots for families and beginners. Lifeguards are also on duty daily to keep everyone safe in the water.
Have Any Tips to Share About Parking at La Jolla Shores?
Tell us in the comments below!
