Where To Park In St Augustine

St. Augustine visitors, brace yourselves: parking is a battlefield. Finding a spot requires strategy and knowledge.

This guide provides crucial, up-to-date information on navigating the city’s parking landscape, ensuring you spend less time circling and more time exploring.

Downtown Parking Options

City-Operated Parking Garages

The Historic Parking Garage (1 Cordova Street) offers the most spaces downtown. It's often the first place to fill up, especially during peak season.

Expect to pay hourly rates, with a daily maximum typically around $15. Arrive early to snag a spot.

The Visitor Information Center Parking Garage (10 West Castillo Drive) is another option. This is slightly further from the main attractions but often less crowded.

Street Parking

Metered street parking is available throughout the downtown area. Rates usually range from $2.50 per hour.

Enforcement is strict, and exceeding the time limit results in a ticket. Pay attention to posted signs regarding time limits and restrictions.

Tip: Download the ParkMobile app to pay for street parking remotely and extend your time if needed.

Free Parking (Limited)

Free parking is scarce downtown, but it exists. Look for spaces along the outer edges of the historic district, further away from the main attractions.

Be prepared for a walk and arrive very early in the morning to have any chance of finding a spot. Always double-check signage to confirm parking is permitted and avoid overnight parking restrictions.

Parking Beyond Downtown

Anastasia Island

If you're visiting St. Augustine Beach or the St. Augustine Lighthouse, parking is available on Anastasia Island. Public beach access points typically have parking lots.

Some lots may require payment, especially those closest to the beach. Arrive early on weekends and holidays.

Parking near the lighthouse is available, but it can fill up quickly. Consider ride-sharing options if you're having trouble finding a spot.

Shuttle Services

The City of St. Augustine operates shuttle services during peak seasons and special events. These can be a convenient alternative to driving downtown.

Check the city's website for shuttle routes, schedules, and pickup locations. This is especially useful during events like Nights of Lights.

Parking Tips & Strategies

Plan Ahead

Research parking options before you arrive. Knowing where garages and lots are located can save you valuable time.

Consider using navigation apps that show real-time parking availability (though accuracy can vary). Expect to spend a minimum of 20-30 minutes looking for parking during peak hours.

Arrive Early or Later

The busiest times downtown are typically between 11 AM and 4 PM. Arriving before or after these times significantly increases your chances of finding parking.

Consider visiting during the off-season (summer can be brutal in St. Augustine). Parking is generally easier to find during weekdays.

Consider Alternatives

If driving and parking seem daunting, explore alternative transportation options. Biking is a popular way to get around, and numerous bike rental shops are available.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in St. Augustine. Water taxis also offer a unique way to travel between certain points.

Future Parking Developments

The city of St. Augustine is continually evaluating parking solutions. Keep an eye out for updates on potential new parking facilities or shuttle services.

Proposed initiatives include exploring options for remote parking locations with shuttle connections to the downtown area. The information will be available on the City of St. Augustine website.

Stay informed about any changes to parking regulations or fees by checking the city's official website before your visit.