Answer: For a budget trip to Disneyland during the 70th anniversary, location, convenience, and price are all key factors. Considering your options and preferences, here’s a detailed breakdown to help with your decision.

Answer: Sherington Place in Newport Beach is generally considered a convenient location, especially for families looking to enjoy the beach and nearby dining options. It is situated within a short drive or even walk to several local restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it easy to grab meals without traveling far. The proximity to the beach is a strong point, allowing for short trips to enjoy sand and surf.

Answer: Aliso Viejo is located inland from Laguna Beach, and while there is no direct city-to-city shuttle or express bus dedicated solely to that route, there are public transit options that can connect you between the two locations.

Answer: Celebrating a special milestone at Disneyland, especially with a personal connection to the park, can be incredibly nostalgic. For your two-night stay and considering your husband’s memories of Disneyland’s early years, there are several experiences and dining options that can help evoke those feelings.

Answer: For a short beach stay after Disneyland with a 5–6 year old, both Laguna Beach and Newport Beach are excellent choices, but they offer slightly different experiences that may influence your decision.

Answer: Disney California Adventure offers a system called Genie+ to help guests reduce wait times for popular attractions. Traditional FastPasses have been retired, and Genie+ is now the main way to access shorter lines for many rides.

Answer: Your proposed schedule of flying from San Francisco to Orange County (SNA) in the morning, heading straight to Disneyland for a single day, and staying overnight at a nearby hotel is definitely doable and has been done by many visitors as a “Disneyland overnight” trip. However, there are a few considerations and potential drawbacks to keep in mind.

Answer: Visiting Anaheim with young kids during rainy weather can still be fun with plenty of indoor options. Here are some ideas to keep the little ones entertained and dry:

Answer: Disneyland and Downtown Disney have significantly expanded vegetarian and pescatarian options in recent years, making it much easier to enjoy meals without meat. Most quick-service locations and table-service restaurants now offer plant-based entrees, seafood dishes, or customizable meals.

Answer: Javier's in Newport Beach has traditionally been known for its festive atmosphere and Mexican cuisine, making it a popular choice for celebrations like birthdays. However, recent reviews indicate a mixed experience, with some guests reporting inconsistencies in service, food quality, and wait times. Since you are traveling from the UK and want a special experience, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

Answer: Here is a detailed summary of the top tips, tricks, and observations from a 2-day Disneyland/California Adventure trip that can help with planning your own visit:

Answer: Yes, you can ship packages to Disney Hotels in Anaheim, including those purchased from the US Disney store. Disney provides a package delivery service to guests staying at their resort hotels, which allows you to receive items directly at your hotel during your stay. However, there are some important details to be aware of to avoid confusion or extra charges.

Answer: For a Disneyland trip at the end of April, choosing a hotel that balances proximity to the park, comfort, and quietness is key—especially since you’re looking for a more relaxed experience as older adults who still want to enjoy the “kids at heart” atmosphere.

Answer: For your one-day Disneyland/California Adventure visit with your family, it’s important to balance maximizing rides for your 7-year-old nephew while keeping your sister and mom comfortable. Both dates you mentioned have pros and cons. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Answer: Thousand Steps Beach is a wonderful choice for your visit to Laguna Beach, especially given your criteria. While the name suggests a long trek, it’s well worth it for the dramatic coastline and relatively uncrowded experience compared to Main Beach. Here’s a breakdown of your questions:

Answer: Visiting Walmart and Target in Anaheim is a smart idea if you want to pick up Disney merchandise at a lower price than the park shops. The Walmart on Euclid Street is indeed well-known for having a large Disney section, especially for apparel, toys, and small souvenirs. However, not all Walmarts in Anaheim carry the same selection, so if your goal is Disney items, this location is often recommended by locals and visitors alike.

Answer: You're correct that 70–80°F in Anaheim feels very different from the same temperatures in a humid climate like coastal Georgia. The key difference is the low humidity in Southern California, typically around 30–40% this time of year. This means the air feels much drier, and your body cools more efficiently through sweating, so temperatures can feel more comfortable and less “sticky” than what you’re used to. A 70°F evening in Anaheim can feel slightly chilly, especially with a light breeze.

Answer: Traveling from a hotel on South Harbor Blvd in Anaheim to John Wayne Airport (SNA) with a young child can be managed affordably if you know your options, while still ensuring safety requirements such as a car seat are met. Here’s a detailed overview.

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Answer: John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County is smaller and much easier to navigate than the major airports like LAX. For an older couple not renting a car, both taxis and Uber/Lyft are convenient options, but there are some differences to be aware of.

Answer: The Irvine Spectrum area has several restaurants suitable for families with kids, offering reasonably priced meals around $20 per dish and the ability to accommodate larger groups. Here are some options:

Answer: Thanksgiving Day in Laguna Beach is a quieter day for many local businesses, but some shops, especially those catering to tourists, may remain open for limited hours. Most boutiques and galleries along the main streets, such as Forest Avenue and Coast Highway, may choose to open mid-morning or early afternoon, but it is not guaranteed.

Answer: Visiting Disneyland on a Tuesday in late October can be a relatively pleasant experience compared to weekends and peak holiday periods, but a few key points can help you plan your day and decide whether a Lightning Lane (previously called Genie+ or FastPass) is necessary.

Answer: Visiting Disneyland as a local or frequent visitor gives you a different perspective on maximizing enjoyment while minimizing stress. Beyond the tips you’ve already shared, there are additional strategies and insights that can make your day smoother, especially for first-timers or multi-generational groups.

Answer: The Honda Center in Anaheim is a large arena designed for sports and entertainment events, including ice shows like Stars on Ice. Seating in the second level, especially around rows 6 or 7 from the top, is generally considered a good balance of price and view. You will have a full view of the ice, though the details of individual skaters may be less clear compared to closer floor-level seats.

Answer: Newport Beach in early April is a wonderful time to celebrate a birthday — the weather is usually mild, and there are plenty of activities that can be fun for a family with teenage boys. Since you’re looking for something special and memorable, I’ve broken down some options for both activities and dining.

Answer: For your Dodgers game on Monday, August 4th, traveling from Hyatt Huntington Beach with a rental car versus using public transit and the Dodgers shuttle each have pros and cons, especially with young children (ages 9, 5, and 3).

Answer: Newport Beach offers several hotels that are within walking distance of the Main Street area, making it convenient to enjoy shopping, dining, and ferry access to Balboa Island. Since you are looking for something in the mid-range — not budget, but not ultra-luxury — there are a few good options.

Answer: San Clemente is a charming coastal town in Orange County with a laid-back vibe, Spanish-style architecture, and a beautiful pier. Staying at the San Clemente Inn through RCI can be a good choice if you’re mainly looking for a convenient location near the beach and downtown. Reviews may vary because some guests expect luxury resort-level accommodations, while others appreciate the basic charm and location. Since you’re in a one-bedroom with murphy beds, it should work fine for your group.

Answer: John Wayne Airport (SNA) is very close to several excellent Orange County beaches, and all of the popular ones have plenty of restaurants, shops, and family-friendly areas within walking distance. Since you’re visiting at the end of July—a busy but beautiful time—you’ll want beaches that combine convenience, amenities, and an easy drive from the airport after Disneyland.

Answer: For a one-day beach visit with your family flying into Long Beach, you have several good options that balance beach access, family-friendliness, and nearby amenities for shopping and dining.

Answer: Staying at the Marriott Newport Beach Villas puts you in a great location for both beach activities and nearby attractions that will keep teenagers busy and entertained. Here’s a breakdown of things to do and eat nearby.

Answer: Laguna Beach is a beautiful destination, but parking can indeed be a challenge, especially if you are planning to stay the entire day and have a pre-teen with autism who may need quick access to your car. Main Beach and Shaw’s Cove are the most popular spots, so early arrival is key.

Answer: Good question. Short answer: there’s no blanket “safe, legal overnight street parking everywhere” in Newport Beach, and the situation around Dolphin Terrace / other streets is complicated. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what the rules are, what locals say, and what risks / strategies you might face.

Answer: Orange County, especially around John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Irvine, has a surprising number of casual dining options, including tacos and food trucks. While the airport itself has some decent spots, venturing just a few minutes away can yield a more local and flavorful experience.

Answer: Both the JW Marriott and Westin Anaheim Resort are excellent hotels near Disneyland, and since your price difference is minimal, the decision mostly comes down to location, amenities, and your specific family needs, especially with two small children.

Answer: Good question. Short answer: yes, it’s *possible* to park overnight at the San Juan Capistrano train station, but there are a few caveats. It’s not a guarantee-free risk, so it depends how comfortable you are and how careful you are with your vehicle.

Answer: Planning a busy day at Disneyland on a Tier 5 day in October with a wheelchair and scooter involves several considerations to maximize your time and comfort. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Answer: Arriving late at night into LAX with a large party and multiple suitcases makes transportation planning a bit more complex, but there are several viable options for getting to Anaheim without breaking the bank.

Answer: Maximizing Early Entry (EE) at Disneyland Resort takes a bit of planning, especially with kids aged 7 and 12. Since you have early entry at DCA twice and DL once, and also have multi-day Genie+ and Park Hopper access, you can leverage these for the best strategy.

Answer: Hi there,

Answer: The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Anaheim is generally considered a solid mid-range option, especially for families or groups who need larger rooms with multiple beds. The property offers clean, comfortable rooms and standard amenities you would expect from the Holiday Inn Express brand, including free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking. The ability to accommodate 2 queen beds plus a sofa bed in one room is indeed rare in the Anaheim area, which makes this hotel particularly appealing for families or larger parties.

Answer: For your 4-night trip over Memorial Day weekend, both Newport Beach and Balboa Peninsula have their charms, but they offer slightly different experiences. Based on your interests—scenery, good food, walking, excursions, and a relaxed but active vibe—here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

Answer: If you’re arriving in Anaheim in the late morning and your hotel room isn’t ready yet, there are several ways to spend your day before heading to the Anaheim Packing District in the evening. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your time without feeling rushed.

Answer: Visiting Disneyland Resort over Memorial Day weekend can be busy, so planning ahead is key, especially for two generations of adults and avoiding intense rides.

Answer: Great question. While there aren’t many fishing “tours” that are last-minute or completely walk-on (charter companies generally recommend or require reservations), there *are* a few more flexible options near Anaheim, plus some good public fishing spots you can hit up in a pinch.

Answer: Great question. For January 7–9 at Disneyland Resort, the entertainment schedule is pretty quiet—this is a low season period just after the holidays and before bigger seasonal shows ramp back up. Here’s what my research shows for those dates, plus key notes to help you plan.

Answer: For a 4-day trip with 2 adults and kids aged 5 and 12 staying near Disneyland, a balanced itinerary can help you enjoy both Disney and LA area attractions without feeling rushed. Since your 12-year-old loves Marvel, incorporating Universal Studios makes sense, and a movie studio tour can round out the experience.

Answer: For a family of 5 traveling from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Anaheim, private transportation or shuttle services are the most convenient options. Since you prefer not to take buses and want a reputable company that can pick you up directly at the airport, here are some suggestions and tips:

Answer: Pacific Hideaway in Huntington Beach is a popular spot, especially during the summer months. July is one of the busiest times due to vacation season and the beach crowd, so reservations are highly recommended if you plan to dine there, particularly for dinner or peak hours in the evening.

Answer: Mission Viejo is a great central base in Orange County, allowing easy access to beaches, inland attractions, shopping, and dining. Since you have three nights, here’s a detailed plan and suggestions for your stay.

Answer: Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland is a special ticketed event held on select nights in October, including October 31st. These tickets are separate from regular Disneyland admission, so your friend will need to purchase a special event ticket for that evening.

Answer: Ordering delivery to Disneyland Hotel Villas in Anaheim is a smart idea, especially after a full day in the parks with young grandchildren. Anaheim has a variety of meal delivery options through major apps, and several local restaurants cater specifically to hotel deliveries. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose.

Answer: For a family road trip in Southern California over the Christmas and New Year’s break, you can create a mix of theme parks, beaches, desert adventures, snow play, and festive activities while avoiding big city congestion. Given your interests, here’s a suggested backbone itinerary that balances activity, travel, and downtime.

Answer: If the Waterfront Beach Resort is unavailable, there are several alternative hotels in Huntington Beach that offer ocean views, nice pools, and a comfortable, upscale experience suitable for a couple in their 50s. While each has its own style, all provide easy access to the beach and some have rooftop or poolside bars.

Answer: Choosing the best day to visit Disneyland in August depends on a few factors: crowd levels, ticket prices, and personal convenience. You mentioned considering Friday, August 15, or Monday, August 25.

Answer: Purchasing Disneyland California tickets from the UK can sometimes be tricky due to credit card restrictions or international payment issues. Many UK-issued cards are occasionally declined on the U.S. Disney Resort website, so it’s good to have alternatives lined up.

Answer: Finding accommodations near Disneyland that accept multiple dogs and allow them to be left unattended during the day can be challenging, but there are options beyond Airbnb that may help reduce costs while keeping your pets safe and comfortable.

Answer: Anaheim is excellent for Disneyland, but it is not centrally located for sightseeing in Los Angeles. Whether you should use Anaheim as your base or switch hotels depends on how much time you plan to spend in Hollywood, Santa Monica, and other LA attractions. The distances may not look far on a map, but LA traffic can make day trips long and tiring.

Answer: Welcome back! Visiting Disneyland in early November is a great time — the parks are generally less crowded than during peak summer or holidays, and you can still catch plenty of entertainment around Sleeping Beauty’s Castle even if the Christmas decorations aren’t up yet.

Answer: “Downtown Disney” in Anaheim is a lively shopping, dining, and entertainment district located just outside the entrances to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. It’s designed for guests who want the Disney experience without purchasing a theme park ticket, making it perfect for your day of arrival if you have a few hours to explore.

Answer: Great question! Yes — there are a few local and national gift-basket companies, florists, and specialty services that can deliver gift baskets or food trays to hotels in the Anaheim / Disneyland area. Below are several options to consider, plus some tips and caveats.

Answer: It’s true that using Uber or Lyft to Disneyland can be a bit tricky. Guests cannot be dropped off right at the park entrances due to security and traffic control, so rideshare drop-offs are at designated areas on the outskirts of the resort. From there, you typically have a short walk to the security checkpoints before entering the parks.

Answer: Newport Beach is a spread-out area, so staying without a car means you want to pick a location that is both scenic and walkable to restaurants, shops, and attractions like the beach or Balboa Island. The main areas to consider are the Newport Peninsula, Balboa Peninsula, and the area near Corona del Mar.

Answer: Traveling from John Wayne Airport (SNA) to Disneyland Hotel is relatively straightforward, and you have a few reliable options depending on convenience, cost, and comfort for your group of five (3 adults, 2 kids).

Answer: For a Disneyland visit on July 31, it is highly recommended to purchase your tickets as early as possible. July is peak summer season, and weekends or holidays can see the parks reach capacity. Early ticket purchase ensures you have guaranteed entry and can also help with planning your day efficiently.

Answer: Anaheim is generally considered a safe city, especially in areas near Disneyland, Anaheim GardenWalk, and the Resort District, which are heavily patrolled and well-lit. Most visitors and locals frequenting these areas experience little to no safety issues.

Answer: For your two-week September trip, planning transport wisely for the first few days in LA and Anaheim can save you both time and money. LA is very spread out, and driving in heavy traffic can be stressful, so careful consideration is key.

Answer: For a hotel experience similar to Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Orlando, staying within the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim offers a few excellent options that provide convenience, themed experiences, and premium amenities. Being on-property gives you early park access, easy walking distance to the parks, and immersive Disney theming.

Answer: Visiting Disneyland in California requires balancing crowds, weather, and convenience, especially when traveling with kids. Here's a detailed breakdown to help you decide between April and summer, as well as airport options.

Answer: For a one-night stay in Anaheim with a late arrival from LGB, you’ll want a hotel that is convenient, comfortable, and has an on-site restaurant or bar serving casual food late into the evening. The drive from Long Beach Airport to Anaheim typically takes around 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic, so arriving around 9:15–9:30 pm is realistic.

Answer: For overnight parking near Disneyland when the Disney lot is not an option, you have several alternatives within walking distance or a short ride from the park. Since your third party only needs parking from late Tuesday night until Wednesday morning, the solution can be flexible and economical.

Answer: Hi! Newport Beach has several areas that fit the vibe you’re looking for—walkable neighborhoods with charming streets, shops, cafes, and restaurants, rather than big shopping malls. For a first weekend in June, focusing on the “downtown” areas near the coast is ideal.

Answer: The Grand Californian Hotel entrance to Disney California Adventure (DCA) has indeed been undergoing refurbishment to install new ticket scanners and potentially expand the entrance area. This update is part of Disney’s ongoing efforts to modernize guest entry and improve crowd flow between the hotel and park. During this refurbishment, the usual direct entrance from the hotel into DCA is closed, so guests will need to use alternative routes.

Answer: Arriving early on June 15 gives you a great opportunity to start your Anaheim trip with something relaxing or scenic before diving into theme parks. Since you’re flying into LAX, it makes sense to rent a car only for the days you’ll be exploring outside of Anaheim or doing beach trips, as traffic around Disney and Anaheim itself can be busy and parking is expensive.

Answer: Visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with young kids and a DAS pass can definitely feel overwhelming, but with a bit of structure, you can hit all the key rides and experiences while keeping the day manageable and fun.

Answer: Disneyland crowds can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including school schedules, holidays, special events, and even local sports events. Over the years, Disney has optimized operations to handle large numbers of visitors efficiently, meaning the park can feel busy almost any day, but there are occasional windows of lighter crowds.

Answer: Yes, there are several ways to get from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Anaheim without a car, including shuttles, buses, trains, and ride-share options. The best choice depends on your budget, comfort preference, and timing.

Answer: The Anaheim Desert Inn and Suites is located very close to Disneyland and South Harbor Boulevard. For a convenient supermarket, you have several options within a short drive, though walking distance is limited depending on how much you want to carry with kids right after a long flight.

Answer: Visiting Disneyland in California offers some experiences and attractions that are unique compared to Disneyland Paris, so it’s possible to focus on those if you only have a day. Since your kids are 10 and 7, you can prioritize rides and shows that they can enjoy, while keeping the day manageable for adults who may not want to spend all day on theme park rides.

Answer: If you’re looking for a place to catch the Steelers game while in San Diego on September 21st, there are several bars known for supporting Pittsburgh teams and NFL games in general. While San Diego doesn’t have a huge number of official Steelers bars, there are some popular spots where Steelers fans tend to gather.

Answer: Driving from Disneyland in Anaheim to Universal Studios Hollywood on a weekday morning requires careful planning because Los Angeles traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. May 28 falls on a Wednesday, so you are likely hitting the tail end of morning rush hour if you leave too late.

Answer: When planning a Disneyland visit in August, it’s important to keep in mind that this is peak summer season, so crowds are generally high throughout the week. While no crowd predictor can guarantee accuracy, there are several tools and strategies that many visitors find helpful for estimating busier versus slightly quieter days.

Answer: Laguna Beach is a great choice for a 4-day stay with teens, as it offers a combination of beach, shopping, art, and outdoor activities. Since you’re looking for accommodations with 2 bedrooms or separate sleeping spaces, vacation rentals, condos, or boutique hotels with suites are usually the best options.

Answer: Traveling from Anaheim to Universal Studios Hollywood can be a bit of a trek, as the distance is roughly 35-40 miles depending on your route, and traffic in Los Angeles can add significant time. Since you’re traveling with a group of 6 and one member has an invisible disability, comfort, convenience, and minimizing stress are key considerations.

Answer: If you are not staying at a Disney hotel, the decision to “rope drop” Rise of the Resistance versus paying for the Individual Lightning Lane (ILL) option depends on your priorities for the day, park strategy, and tolerance for early mornings and potential wait times.

Answer: Planning your first Disneyland trip with kids is exciting but it can definitely create analysis paralysis with all the hotel options in Anaheim. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help guide your decision.

Answer: Laguna Beach has several surf and dive shops, but finding a single shop that rents snorkel gear, wetsuits, and boogie boards can be a little tricky. Most surf shops focus on boards and wetsuits, while dive shops focus on snorkel gear. Here are some options and strategies to consider:

Answer: Starting in 2026, Disneyland Resort is changing its policy for hotel guests. Previously, staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel gave guests early entry into the parks, allowing them to access attractions before regular park opening hours. This early entry perk is being discontinued. Instead, hotel guests will receive a single Lightning Lane pass per day as a replacement benefit. This pass allows one expedited entry to an attraction via the Lightning Lane queue, which can significantly reduce wait times for that ride.

Answer: Visiting Disney California Adventure Park for just one day means careful planning is key, especially if some rides are showing as closed or “no reservation slots left.” Here’s a detailed overview to help you maximize your day.

Answer: Taking two small children with you as the only adult at Disneyland can pose some challenges, but it’s definitely manageable with planning. The main concern, as you noted, is seating configurations on rides—especially for single adult with two kids. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Answer: Yes, there are ways to enjoy a more focused, VIP-style experience at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, although Disneyland does not currently offer a dedicated “Star Wars VIP Tour” that is entirely separate from other VIP tours.

Answer: Hello,

Answer: Flying into John Wayne Airport (SNA) for the first time is fairly straightforward. It’s a smaller airport compared to LAX, with a compact layout, short walking distances, and generally lighter crowds, which makes arrivals and departures quicker and less stressful. Since you’re planning a short stay from Thursday afternoon to Saturday afternoon, you’ll likely find SNA very convenient.

Answer: Hi Shannon — great question, and congratulations on your anniversary! What a special place to return to.

Answer: Both the Waterfront Beach Resort, Hilton, and the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach are excellent choices, and they share many similarities, including proximity to the beach, upscale amenities, and beautiful ocean views. Since you prefer a livelier atmosphere with access to pools and evening dining/walking options, there are a few distinctions to consider.

Answer: Orange County has some of the most beautiful beaches in California, and many of them are perfect for spending a full day relaxing and enjoying the sunset. Since you’re staying in both Orange County and Mission Viejo, you’ll want options that are not too far from either location and ideally have amenities like fire pits for s’mores.

Answer: Traveling from Los Angeles to Huntington Beach via public transit is possible, but it’s not as convenient or fast as driving. The route typically involves a combination of Metro trains, buses, or regional rail services like Metrolink. Safety is generally reasonable on these systems during the day, but like any large urban area, it’s wise to remain aware of your surroundings, especially during off-peak hours or late at night.

Answer: Your second day at Disneyland appears to have been another well-organized and fun-filled day, balancing thrill rides, family attractions, and downtime effectively. Starting early and using rope drop again allowed you to access popular rides like Space Mountain and Rise of the Resistance efficiently.

Answer: Laguna Beach is a wonderful choice for the second half of your trip, and both Surf & Sand and a VRBO offer unique advantages depending on what experience you’re seeking.