Reduced beach car parking and tidal closures 2023
Beach car parks at Southport and Ainsdale are generally open every day between 1st April and 30th September each summer. However, they do need to close or be reduced in size depending on tidal and weather conditions, sometimes for organised events (such as the Southport Air Show) and at other times as determined by the Council (e.g. pollution incidents).
We also need to take close note of the weather conditions, especially wind direction and strength – certain conditions may require further closures.
Beach car parking charges for 2023:
- £8 per day for cars at Southport beach
- £10 per day for cars at Ainsdale beach
- £16 per day for horseboxes or minibuses
- 50% off the above rates after 4pm subject to car parking management arrangements
- £35 season ticket for Sefton residents and those who drive an electric or hybrid vehicle
- £70 season ticket for non-Sefton residents
Season tickets can be purchased online by visiting Beach Parking – Seasonal Contract Application (sefton.gov.uk)
You can call 0151 934 2961 or email Green Sefton for further enquiries.
Other parking
There are many other pay and display car parks in the Southport area just a short walk away from the beach.
Crosby beach is backed by a promenade, from where you can safely view the Another Place ‘Iron Men’. There are several pay and display car parks adjacent or close to the promenade.
Car parking for the beach at Formby is managed by the National Trust, who have lots of helpful tips you should read when planning your visit there. Have a look at their planning your visit page.
Visitors should not park in residential areas and should expect a fine for anti-social, irresponsible and illegal car parking. It is a key priority for our Enforcement Officers, working alongside Merseyside Police, to tackle parking issues near the coast and resources will be increased in areas where they persist.