Marine Drive Parking

Alright mate, if you're driving into town and want to dump the car near the beach, Marine Drive Parking is usually your best bet. It's pay and display, mind, but you're right on the prom and can practically roll out onto the sand. Plus, you get a decent view while you're fumbling for change. It's dead handy for the pier and all the shops on Lord Street, too – a straight shot up.

It gets pretty rammed on sunny weekends and during the Air Show, obviously. You might have to circle a bit, especially for a spot right on Marine Drive itself. There's some overspill parking further back on the grass verge, but it can get boggy if it's been raining. I've seen a few folks get stuck there over the years, so be warned.

It's got a perfect 5-star rating on Google right now, but that's only from one review, so don't get too excited! It is what it is: parking. But it's well-located parking, and that's what matters.

Just a heads up: keep an eye on the parking restrictions. The traffic wardens are like hawks around here, especially in the summer. Don't chance it.