With about 25 million people living in Southern California, driving to the San Diego cruise port is a popular way to set sail.
Of course, that means you have to find a place to park your car. And with the cruise port situated near the popular downtown destinations of the city, finding a long-term spot for your car is a little tougher than simply plunking a few quarters in a meter and getting on the ship.
Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
Unlike most ports, San Diego does not offer official port parking right at the ship. This is a big departure from any other port in the United States. As a result, cruise passengers have to look to off-site parking. Fortunately, there are some affordable and convenient options. (San Diego park & cruise hotels also offer more choices.)
San Diego Cruise Ship & Airport Parking (Wyndham San Diego Bayside)
This lot is located right across the street from the cruise terminal, in a parking garage that’s adjacent to the Wyndham San Diego Bayside hotel. Rates are extremely affordable, costing just $11 per day. Compare that to the upwards of $20 per day many ports charge in other cities for parking. Reservations are recommended. A free shuttle to the port (even though it’s a short walk) is provided.
Cost: $11 per day
Distance: 1 block
Website: https://www.sandiegocruiseshipparking.com/
Park & Go
This lot is actually located near the San Diego airport, but that’s just about one mile from the cruise terminal. Shuttles are provided between the cruise terminal and the parking lot every 15 minutes. Rates are $13 per day, but their website has a coupon to knock $1 per day off that.
Cost: $12 per day (with coupon)
Distance: 1 mile
Website: https://www.parkandgosd.com/cruise-ship-parking.html
Airport Parking Lots
Given the close proximity of the cruise ship terminal to the airport, you could conceivably park at any airport parking lot. However, you would then need to catch a taxi or Uber/Lyft to the cruise ship terminal because many parking lots won’t have shuttles to the port. Still, if you are interested in saving more money (we’ve seen airport parking rates as low as $9 per day), then this is an option.
Hotels with Cruise Parking
If you plan to stay in the area (which we highly recommend), then you’ll be happy to know that several hotels in San Diego offer parking packages to attract your business. With these specials, you can park for free or at discounted rates in return for a one night stay. Some also offer shuttles back and forth between the cruise ports. Click here for more details on San Diego hotels with cruise parking.
More on Cruising From San Diego
Getting to the Port of San Diego — Transportation options from airports and the San Diego area to the cruise port. Everything you need to know to get to the port and start your vacation.
San Diego Cruise Hotels — Getting in late? Leaving early? Simply need a place to rest your head? We’ve rounded up the options for places to stay near the port.