Just this week, I traveled on my first trip to Disneyland since the pandemic and was I ever overwhelmed with figuring out how to get from the airport to Disneyland! So much has changed in the last two years and I thought I might share some of the experiences I had in order to help you all.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON CARSEATS
If you are traveling in California in a car, bus, or van with children you MUST have a car seat! It is California state law!
Having worked as a concierge you may call one of the 3 Disneyland Hotels for recommendations about renting strollers and car seats. They will have a list of approved vendors.
Grand Californian Hotel and Spa (714) 635-2300. Option 0 to speak to a Cast Member.
Disneyland Hotel (714) 778-6600. Option 0 to speak to a Cast Member.
Paradise Pier Hotel (714) 999-0990. Option 0 to speak to a Cast member.
Another option is to bring your own! If you are flying, airlines will allow you to check a car seat for free! All you have to do is ask. It can be done at the counter or gate checked. I would highly recommend you bring a cover for one.
Door-to-Door Shuttle Service
What used to be the most economical option is now one of the most expensive options. Supershuttle has gone out of business. Disneyland Resort now recommends Karmel Shuttle. Per Disney’s website here is what they recommend.
I would personally not recommend taking a shuttle. I do not think it is all that cost effective. As a solo traveler, I was quoted a ridiculous rate of $70. The van wouldn’t take additional passengers if I booked a reservation. It operates as a ride sharing service.
Uber/Lyft Ride Sharing
When I arrived to the airport, I flew into Long Beach and out of Santa Ana/John Wayne/Orange County airport. I used Lyft. I found that it was the easiest option, but was shocked by how expensive this option can be. I paid just under $40 to John Wayne and $50 from Long Beach. In the past it was only half of this. Uber, by contrast was quoting me about $80. They use surge pricing so beware if you intend to use the service.
If you are arriving to the airport, there are plenty of ride sharing cars that are available for you to use. The airports I flew through both had clear signs posted to where the ride sharing area was. I only had to wait about 5 minutes each time.
If you are leaving Disneyland, or going to Disneyland. You can get dropped off/picked up at Harbor Blvd or at Downtown Disney. Technically if you are dining at one of the hotels you can get dropped off there too, but its closer to go through downtown or Harbor blvd.
I would recommend having the apps downloaded before you go on your trip.
Taxi Service
Taxis if you are traveling in a group this is usually the most cost effective option. They usually have a flat rate traveling from Disneyland to the airport. Make sure you ask the driver before you leave. The great thing is that the hotels always have taxis on standby and if do not feel like waiting for an Uber or Lyft. Resort taxis are typically operated by Orange County Yellow Cab.
Coming from the airport, some taxis may try to use the meter, but if you ask about a flat rate, you may get lucky.
Busses and Public Transit from LAX
Public Transit from SNA
Public Transit from LGB
Amtrak and Greyhound
Both of these services will be available by using the Anaheim ARTIC station, then by transferring to an Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA) bus.
See Disneyland’s official guide on transportation for more.
Car Rentals
If you are comfortable driving, you can also rent a car. Parking is currently $30 for theme park parking, but be advised that you will need to check with your hotel about what parking rates might be for overnight. It can be expensive.
Wrapping Up
I hope this helps you all. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.