Parking Lot & Beach Rules

Enjoy convenient beach access with an annual membership to the Clifton Improvement Association. Your support helps maintain our park while granting you parking privileges in our lot during the open season, space permitting. On busy beach days, the lot fills quickly, but we monitor traffic and may restrict visitor access to members only during peak times.

Daily parking rates is $30. We ask all visitors and members to park responsibly—taking only one space—and to dispose of trash and recyclables in the provided bins. While you’re welcome to park when no agent is on duty, overnight or extended stays require prior board approval.

Our parking agents operate from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, seven days a week, from 9 AM to 5 PM. By joining, you contribute to preserving Clifton’s beauty while securing hassle-free parking for your beach trips. Become a member today and enjoy a stress-free visit to one of the area’s most cherished spots.

Daily Parking Pass

Tides & Safety

At Preston Beach, safety and awareness are our top priorities.

  • The tides dramatically impact accessibility—high tide completely covers the shoreline, making it essential to consult summer tidal charts before planning your visit. Tides, driven by the moon’s and sun’s gravitational pull, are predictable yet influenced by coastal geography. Understanding these patterns ensures safer, more enjoyable beach experiences.

    We urge visitors to respect nature’s power. By staying informed and cautious, you can fully appreciate Preston Beach’s beauty while minimizing risks. Your safety depends on preparation and vigilance—check tides, avoid hazardous areas, and always prioritize caution. Together, we can keep Preston Beach a stunning and secure destination for everyone.


  • Seaside rocks poses serious risks—wet or blackened areas, often covered in blue-green algae, are as slippery as ice. Always test footholds for traction before shifting your weight.

  • Storm drains at either end of the beach discharge runoff contaminated with harmful bacteria, pesticides, and toxins, particularly after heavy rains. Keep children away from this water to avoid exposure to dangerous pollutants.

A woman and a child walking down concrete stairs towards a rocky shoreline with pebbles and ocean water.
Beach with rocks and gravel in the foreground, people playing and relaxing near the shoreline, houses on a hill in the background, clear blue sky.

Free Library

The beach & a book: A perfect pairing

Beaches and books have always been a winning combination. In 2014, Kristen Nyberg's vision came to life when the CIA rebuilt their storage shed, incorporating a Little Free Library designed by architect Bruce Greenwald. This charming addition invites everyone to take a book or leave one behind.

Finished a great beach read? Share the joy by leaving it for someone else to enjoy! We encourage donations of newish paperbacks—ideal for propping up on a towel—and welcome children’s and teen novels too. Stop by, grab a book, and keep the love of reading alive. A good book makes every beach day even better.

Small building with shingled exterior, white door, and white window shutters, surrounded by flower pots with purple, white, and yellow flowers, with green trees and a blue sky in the background.
Join our Team

Summer Agents

The CIA hires summer agents to engage with the community and enhance the neighborhood experience. These agents play a vital role in keeping residents and visitors informed about CIA initiatives. Their responsibilities include monitoring the parking lot, assisting beachgoers, maintaining park cleanliness, watering plants, and supporting community activities.

If you’re passionate about making a difference, consider joining our team of agents. Be part of a dedicated group working to preserve and improve our vibrant community.