Ho, ho, no parking at the Golden Gate Bridge during the holidays

Golden Gate Bridge officials plan to close parking lots around the span during the holidays to keep traffic flowing smoothly on the bridge.

Beginning Sunday and through Jan. 1, lots will be closed from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. In the past, the bridge has become jammed with traffic around the holidays, especially as drivers cue up to park at Vista Point. 

During the closures, personal vehicles will not be permitted to park at the Welcome Center south end parking lot or at Caltrans' Vista Point north end parking lot, according to the bridge district.

Visitors are encouraged to take public transit, bicycles, tour buses, corporate shuttles, taxis or ridesharing services. Taxis and rideshare vehicles will be allowed to pick up and drop off passengers at the Welcome Center only.

Electronic signs will notify drivers of the lot closures. Bridge officials note there are other places that the bridge to take in views.