Vacationers heading to Jekyll Island will have to pay more for parking starting July 1.

The Jekyll Island Authority has approved a $1 increase in the price of a daily parking pass at the state park on the Georgia coast. The change raises the total fee to $6.

The cost of weekly parking passes will increase by $4 to $28.

The Jekyll Island Authority requested the fee hike to ensure it will be able to balance its budget in fiscal 2013, which starts next month. The authority's board approved the request unanimously Monday.

Jones Hooks, the state-owned island's executive director, blamed rising costs for fuel, chemicals and other materials needed for everyday maintenance on the island.

Meanwhile, Tybee Island's City Council voted unanimously June 14 to raise parking rates at its two beachfront parking lots from $1.50 to $2 per hour.

Tybee officials said the extra money is needed to help pay for keeping the beach clean and staffed with lifeguards.

Tags: parking, Jekyll Island, Jekyll Island Authority, beach, parking fee