New Smyrna Beach parking does not have to be a nightmare if ever you visit it.

As long as you know what to expect, then you should not have trouble finding parking.

The key is to prepare ahead of time!

With the summer in full swing and the popularity of summer crowds caving in, there is no better time to start planning.

Of course, parking is one of those stressful things you sometimes have to think about.

*This post was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2023.

Sadly, the weather was not in our favor when we visited -it was a cloudy day.

Arrive early and you might get lucky and of course, arrive late and you risk not finding any parking!

Where here to help you get there to New Smyrna Beach prepared!

These are our 8 best New Smyrna Beach parking places you can park while visiting.

Overview

• 6 New Smyrna Beach Parking Spots -(Paid Parking)
• 2 New Smyrna Beach Parking Spots -(Free Parking)
• 5 Helpful Tips to Remember about Parking
• F.A.Q.s
• Conclusion

New Smyrna Beach Parking Lot Places – Paid

New Smyrna Beach offers plenty of parking options – the downfall is you’re gonna have to pay.

Heads Up!

New Smyrna Beach parking is a lot more expensive than other well-known beaches in Florida.

For instance, beachfront parking in Daytona is only $20 for all-day (as of 2023).

Whereas, beachfront New Smyrna Beach parking is now $20 for all-day (as of 2023).

You don’t even have an option to pay for 1 hour or 2 hours – the only option is all-day.

When my sister and I used to live in Florida back in 2016 parking was $10 all day, and you did have the option to choose either 1 hour or 4 hours!

One thing we found out when living in Florida was that residents who had the annual resident pass can park free.

1. Flager Avenue Beachfront Park (New Smyrna Beach Drive on Entrance)

For those who want up-front beach views and don’t like walking, you can actually park right on the beach at New Smyrna Beach.

The main entrance to park on the beach can be found in Flagler Avenue Beachfront Park.

However, if you drive around the S. Atlantic Ave street you also see up-front beach parking.

Though, the main entrance to the up-front beach parking is located at 201 Buenos Aires St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169.

The cost to park here is $20 all-day -includes 1 vehicle and 1 re-entry for the same day.

You can pay in person or you can purchase a pass only at the Volusia County Florida Homepage.

They also offer resident year annual passes for $25 or visitor annual passes for $100.

This beach parking is open from 8 am to sunset.

Be sure to read all the signs carefully when entering here.

Certain restrictions apply.

2. Flagler Avenue Boardwalk

While Flagler Avenue Beachfront Park offers on-site beach parking, Flagler Avenue Boardwalk offers beach parking upfront near the beach, but it’s not on it.

Located at 210 Buenos Aires Street, New Smyrna Beach, Fl 32169.

You can still get the same amazing ocean views as well as the restroom facilities.

This sandlot parking is a perfect location for those wanting to explore both the beach and nearby amenities.

This New Smyrna Beach Parking is within walking distance to many restaurants such as The Breakers Ocean Front Restaurant & Bar as well as many shops and bars.

This parking lot charges $20 per vehicle.

It’s the most popular parking spot – so beware!

Weekends are horribly crowded and during summers expect many tourists!

Highly recommend coming in early for it’s a first come first serve parking lot.

3. Marianne Clancy Park

For those who want a bit more tranquility, but still, be near amenities then Marianne Clancy Park is your go-to place.

This parking lot is located at 901 S Atlantic Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169.

This New Smyrna Beach parking lot is concrete paved and offers picnic tables along with restrooms.

It’s a bit smaller than the Flager Avenue Boardwalk parking lot, nevertheless, expect to pay the same price.

This parking lot cost $20 all day.

4. New Smyrna Dunes Parking Lot

This place is perfect, especially if you bring your dog since it is a pet-friendly beach area.

Check out why New Smyrna Dunes is a perfect place to bring your dog here. 

Parking is limited so be sure to arrive early.

The medium-sized parking lot is located at 2995 N Peninsula Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169.

This is the cheapest place to park in New Smyrna Beach if you want to access the beach.

However, you will need to walk along the boardwalk to get there.

If you don’t like walking much, then most likely you won’t like to park in New Smyrna Dunes.

If you do decide to come more than once a year then look into buying the annual permit.

For $20 a year, you will be able to come all summer long.

5. Esther Street Beachfront Park

The next street over from Flagler Avenue you can find the Esther Street Parking lot.

Located at 551 Esther St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169.

This concrete small parking lot offers picnic tables, restrooms, and a small playground for children.

You can walk straight onto the beach from here.

The parking lot is $20 but nice for an all-day trip.                                                                                            

6. 27th Avenue Beachfront Park

If you’re looking for a park that offers plenty of amenities then this New Smyrna Beach parking lot has it all.

This parking lot offers a bigger kid’s playground, unlike, Esther Street Beachfront Park.

In addition, you got restrooms and showers, picnic tables, a basketball court, and a small boardwalk that connects to the beach.

There is also a lifeguard tower here located – often a popular parking destination in the summers.

All it’s missing is a snack bar, though.

This parking lot is located at 3701 S. Atlantic Avenue, New Smyrna, Fl 32169.

The price to park here is $20 all day – just like the other parking lots.

There are plenty of parking spots here over 100.

7. North Beach Community Park (2 Parking Lots)

Grayce Kenemer Barck North Beach Community Park has actually 2 parking lots.

Yes, I know it’s a bit confusing.

The first parking lot is located at 1100 N. Atlantic Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, Fl Fl 32169.

This concrete beach parking lot does have direct access to the beach.

Here you will find restrooms and a beach entrance.

On the other hand, the second dirt parking lot is located at:

1098-1000 N Peninsula Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169.

This parking lot to be honest isn’t worth paying.

It’s a smaller lot with only about 20 spots available.

It is nestled between many residential houses and doesn’t offer restrooms, a beach entrance, or picnic tables.

You will have to walk for 10 mins.

To get to the north side of New Smyrna Beach, N Atlantic Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169.

Expect to pay $20 all day for both parking lots.

New Smyrna Beach Parking- Free

For those who are traveling on a budget or just want to save a few bucks, New Smyrna Beach parking does have a few places you can park for free.

1. Hiles Boulevard

If you don’t care about seeing Flager Avenue which is known for its shops, bars, and restaurants then park on Hiles Boulevard.

It’s about an 8 min drive from Flagler Avenue.

This New Smyrna Beach parking lot can be found at 4516 S Atlantic Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169.

This is a spacious lot that offers plenty of spots, definitely, more than 100.

There are bathrooms here, but no picnic tables.

You will need to cross S. Atlantic Avenue street to get to the beach.

If you’re feeling hungry and love Mexican food there’s Mi Mexico Restaurant right across from this parking lot.

This restaurant offers dine-in and outdoor seating that features different authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.

2. Residential Parking

Not a lot of options here, but you can find New Smyrna Beach parking for free along some residential streets.

For instance, Hiles Blvd and Van Kleeck Drive offer a small parking lot.

You can park along here for free.

There are several residential streets that are near New Smyrna Beach.

Just use caution when parking around these streets.

Be aware of the signs and rules to avoid trouble.

5 Helpful Tips to Remember about Parking

1. Arrive Early

Parking lots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

Peak time is usually anywhere from 9-12 noon you will definitely save a lot of heartaches that way. 

The last thing you want to do is keep circling around for hours waiting to find a parking spot.

2. Bring Cash

It’s always a good idea to have cash on hand.

Sometimes not all parking lots will accept card payments.

The first time my sister and I ever visited New Smyrna Beach, we parked on the Flagler Avenue Boardwalk.

However, the machine was down and wasn’t accepting card payments only cash.

Luckily for me, my sister had cash and we were able to pay.

3. Obey the Signs and Rules

All along New Smyrna Beach, you will see different signs and several enforced rules.

Be mindful and make sure you read and are aware and know what specific spots you can and can’t park your car in.

The last thing you want to deal with is a ticket or having your car towed.

4. Avoid Weekends and Summers

I’ll admit it, I’m not fond of crowds.

It’s a lot dealing with finding parking, standing in long lines to use the bathroom, as well as finding a spot to sit on the beach.

So, whenever my sister and I can we try to avoid visiting places during their peak season.

If you have the same mindset as me then I recommend avoiding New Smyrna Beach during the weekends and summertime.

The beach during these times will be more challenging.

But, hey, if you’re willing to put up with that, then more power to you.

5. Purchase a Parking Pass

If you plan on visiting New Smyrna Beach often, then it might be worth it to invest in a parking pass.

This will save you money in the long run since you won’t be spending $20 each time you park here.

As well as time, since you can just park and head straight to the beach.

Without worrying about standing in line to buy a parking ticket.

Be sure to check the Volusia County Home Page for more details.

F.A.Q.s

How crowded does parking get in New Smyrna Beach during weekends and summers?

Parking in New Smyrna Beach can get crowded during weekends and summers, especially in popular areas near the beach and downtown.

As a popular tourist destination, the influx of visitors during these times can put a strain on the available parking spaces.

Here are some factors to consider:

Beach parking: The parking areas near the beach, particularly the ones closest to beach access points, tend to fill up quickly on weekends and during the summer.

It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a parking spot.

Downtown parking: Downtown New Smyrna Beach also experiences increased parking demand on weekends and during the summer due to the various shops, restaurants, and events.

Parking spaces in the downtown area may be limited, and you may need to search for street parking or use public parking lots/garages.

Residential areas:

Some residential areas near popular destinations may have parking restrictions to prioritize parking for residents.

Visitors may need to find alternative parking options or obtain a parking permit if available.

Off-peak hours: If you can plan your visit during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late afternoon, you may have a better chance of finding parking spaces with less competition.

To ensure a smoother parking experience, consider the following tips:

• Arrive early to secure a parking spot.
• Utilize alternative transportation methods like bicycles or ride-sharing services if possible.
• Explore remote parking areas and use shuttle services if available.
• Be prepared to walk a bit farther from your parking spot to your desired destination.

Is Parking Free at New Smyrna Beach?

Unfortunately, there aren’t many free parking lot options while visiting New Smyrna Beach.

Though I talked about 2 free parking places, for the sure still paid option will attract you more.

Hiles Boulevard and Van Kleeck Drive are two streets you can park on for free.

There are residential streets near New Smyrna Beach such as Schoolway Avenue, Doris Street, and Sea Mist Drive to name a few that are within walking distance to New Smyrna Beach.

However, we recommend you do follow the county rules when it comes to parking along residential streets.

Some signs will say you can’t park while other streets don’t have any – just use caution.

How Much Does it Cost to Park on the Beach in New Smyrna?

Parking is not cheap while visiting New Smyrna, unlike, other Florida beaches.

Expect to pay an average of $20 minimum for all-day parking.

Most parking lots in New Smyrna Beach such as Flagler Avenue Boardwalk, Marianne Clancy Park, and 27th Avenue Beachfront Park cost $20.

So be prepared.

What are the new smyrna beach parking hours?

*New Smyrna Beach parking hours are from 1 hour before sunrise until 11 pm, with the exception of Flager Avenue Beachfront Park.

Here you can park until 2:30 am.

*Parking hour times may differ between holidays so make sure to check the Volusia County Home Page for any updated details.

Can you Drive your Car on New Smyrna Beach and How Much Does it Cost?

Yes, you can drive your car in New Smyrna Beach.

Parking is open usually from 8 am to sunset time.

There is an entrance fee of $20 to park on the beach which can be purchased on the Volusia County Florida Homepage as previously mentioned.

Conclusion

So, there you have 7 places in which you can park in New Smyrna Beach while visiting.

Just remember to come early, obey all the signs and rules, bring cash just in case, and if you’re visiting during the summer or weekends – be prepared to fight for a parking spot.

Unless you arrive here early then you shouldn’t have difficulty in finding a spot to park in.

Our favorite New Smyrna Beach parking lot is the Flagler Avenue Boardwalk.

It’s a perfect place for families to explore.

Check out some of their shops, restaurants, and bars.

Or if you are traveling with your pet be sure to head on over to New Smyrna Dunes!

Let us know in the comments below what are some of your favorite things to do in New Smyrna Beach or any spots you recommend that weren’t mentioned here to park.

Until next time, safe travels.