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San Diego is one of the most famous points on the West Coast that boasts a strong reputation as a tourist destination. One of the first things you have to work out is getting parking at Port of San Diego for the weekend or for an extended trip of two weeks or more.
From rates to rules, there is a guide for every part, including what to do if there is a problem with the hotel.
If you do not want to pay for long term parking, one logical solution is to park close to your cruise ship the night before. There are a few hotels near Port of San Diego with cruise parking, and you can leave your car at the hotel during your trip as part of your hotel package price.
These packages will usually include a parking space for your cruise duration as well as 1 night's accommodation. Depending on the type of boat, there may be savings on the price as well compared to daily port rentals, particularly with longer journeys.
Instead of using Harbor Drive, find a hotel near or on the downtown waterfront for the easiest access to the terminal.
| Option | Avg. Cost | Distance to Terminal | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Park & Cruise Package | $120–$200/night + parking | 0.5–1.5 miles | Cruises 5+ days |
| Port Lot (B Street Terminal) | $22–$25/day | On-site | Short trips (1–4 days) |
| Off-site Parking Lots | $10–$18/day | 0.5–2 miles | Budget travelers |
One of the most sought-after alternatives is Laurel port of San Diego cruise parking. The Laurel Street Lot is close to the B Street Cruise Terminal and is a good option for visitors who want to park inside. It is controlled by the port authority and is in operation during designated hours on days when there are sailing cruises.
On embarkation mornings spaces fill up quickly so an early arrival is recommended.
This location is in connection with the B Street Terminal lot and other overspill sites in the neighborhood making up the Port of San Diego cruise parking. Some of these lots are close enough to the terminal building to use the shuttle service provided by the port, so even if you park some distance away you will not have to carry heavy luggage a long distance.
How much is parking at San Diego Cruise Port? It's one of the first questions travelers ask. Here's a simple breakdown:
Prices may vary and may be more expensive during the high cruise season (November – April). Please visit the port's official website before your visit to verify the current Parking Rates for the Port of San Diego.
A certain amount of parking is allowed at the Port of San Diego location; knowing the Port of San Diego parking rules can save you further penalties and aggravation. The following points should be kept in mind:
The Port of San Diego will issue parking tickets to any vehicle that is trespassing or not exhibiting the appropriate credentials. A typical fine is $65 and will vary according to the type of ticket. Take advantage of marked cruise parking slots, make sure to put your cruise receipt in a prominent place on the dashboard.
| Parking Type | Cost | Convenience | Best For | Pre-book? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B Street Terminal Lot | $$ | High | All cruise travelers | Recommended |
| Laurel Lot | $$ | High | Early arrivals | Yes |
| Off-Site Private Lots | $ | Medium | Budget travelers | Optional |
| Hotel Park & Cruise | $$$ | High | Long cruises | Required |
| Street Parking | Free–$ | Low | Drop-off only | No |
Pre-cruise parking doesn't have to be complicated. If you prefer using the terminal lot on-site, the alternative is to take a cheaper, off-site terminal location, or a hotel park and cruise.
There are options in San Diego for all types of travelers, including the convenience of the on-site terminal lot, or the alternate of the budget-friendly off-site spot, or the hotel package that offers park and cruise.
Remember to keep up to date with the current rates, abide by posted regulations and make advance bookings during peak season to avoid any last minute hassles.
Yes. It is strongly recommended to pre-book your spot, especially during peak cruise season. Please book your reservation online at the Port of San Diego website, or with a third-party parking operator in the immediate vicinity.
Yes, there is covered parking on the B Street Terminal. There are also covered spaces available on the Laurel area lots. These tend to get filled quickly so it's advisable to arrive on embarkation day.
A Port of San Diego parking ticket can be paid online via the city of San Diego or official online payment gateway, or may be disputed via a written request within the confines of the notice (typically 21 days). Tickets may result in more fines for not being obeyed.
Yes. Within a mile of the terminal are a number of private lots which charge daily fares much cheaper than the official port lot. Most have a shuttle service to the terminal. Before you travel you can check them against each other, using the help of apps such as SpotHero or ParkWhiz.
Not all hotels in port of San Diego have parking for your cruises for free, but many hotels close to Port of San Diego offer "park and cruise" packages that could be cheaper overall, particularly if the cruise that you take is more than 7 days.