Where to Park in Laguna Beach and Why You Should Take the Trolley

Let’s be honest: parking in Laguna Beach can be a challenge, especially in the summer. With limited street parking and a small number of lots, it can feel like you spend more time circling than enjoying the coast. But don’t let that ruin your day in our beautiful beach town. There’s a better way.

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Park in the Canyon, Ride Free Into Town

Your best bet? Skip the stress and park at one of the large lots in Laguna Canyon (lots 10-16). From there, hop on the free trolley that shuttles you into downtown and around town. It’s an easy, scenic ride that saves time and sanity.

Trolleys typically run every 20–30 minutes from late June through Labor Day, with weekend service starting earlier in the season. Check the City of Laguna Beach website for exact dates and hours.

🅿️Downtown Parking Options 

If you do want to park downtown, here’s the lowdown:

• The Glenneyre Street parking structure is central, just a short walk from Main Beach and Forest Avenue. It even has two EV chargers (on the lower level). 501 Glenneyre St, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

  
  

• There are meters along Coast Highway and surrounding side streets. Most accept cards and payment apps. 🚘

  
  

• Cliff Drive offers metered parking with stunning views—but it fills up fast, so get there early.

  
  

• Some businesses sell parking spots, like the Mobil gas station at Broadway and PCH, right across from Main Beach.

  
  

• A few residential streets have free spots, but watch for “Resident Only” signs. Others might be unmetered but involve a steep walk down (and back up) the hills.

  
  

In summer, parking is at a premium. If you're visiting during a festival or holiday weekend, plan ahead. In the off-season, spots are easier to find, and the town has a quieter charm.

One thing locals quietly love? When visitors use the trolley instead of clogging up narrow residential streets. One thing we don’t like? When people park in front of our driveways on a hot weekend afternoon!

Other Options Near Popular Beaches

• Aliso Beach has one of the larger lots, extending on both sides of PCH with a pedestrian tunnel beneath. Still, it fills quickly on sunny days.

  
  

• There’s a small public lot just south of the Montage Resort (turn on Wesley), but it’s no secret, so arrive early.

  

  Turn right at this intersection to find a small lot near Aliso Beach and the Montage Laguna Resort

🚷Please, Don’t Run Across PCH

We locals cringe when we see beachgoers sprinting across Pacific Coast Highway. It’s a highway, not a beach path. Use designated crosswalks or the pedestrian tunnel near Aliso Beach. Better yet, just take the trolley!

My Perfect Laguna Beach Day Trip Tips

• Arrive early, find your parking spot, then start with a relaxed breakfast at the Orange Inn. 

  
  

• Stroll Forest Avenue, browse boutiques. 

  
  

• Hit the beach, take the trolley to a quiet cove, stop for ice cream, maybe pop into the Laguna Art Museum, and head home happy.

  
  

Trust me! Your day will be much more enjoyable when you’re not worrying about a parking meter ticking down or dragging chairs uphill.

Make sure you don't forget everything you need for your perfect day at the beach!

For more information about Parking in Laguna Beach, visit the city’s parking webpage here.