How to get to Disneyland from LAX

When getting to Disneyland from LAX you have several options.  You can take a shared ride van, a private van, a private car, the Disneyland Express Bus, car rental or a taxi.  (The links listed here are for informational purposes and are not an endorsement or recommendation of any company).  Read on for the pros and cons of all these choices so you can make the decision that is right for you.

By Jennifer Stuart

Option 1: Shared Van. 
​While by far the cheapest option this has the disadvantage of time.  You may have to wait until the van is full before it departs the airport, and then wait some more while other passengers are dropped off at their destinations.  Not ideal when travelling with children who have already been on a long flight.  You will also have to provide your own car seats if your kids need them.  You just exit the terminal and wait at the shared van signs on the curb.
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​Option2: Private Van. 
​ There are lots of choices in this category, and all seem to have their fans and detractors.  The cost is about the same as a taxi or private car, but the advantage is space for a larger family or group with lots of luggage.  (Reminder: you will need to bring your own car seats for children who need them).  Private vans need to wait off-site for you to call them in when you get your luggage but only take a few minutes and will pick you up curbside

Feel free to do your own research but here are a couple of options to start with:

SupperShuttle
PrimeTime Shuttle
LAX list of ground transportation links

Option 3: A Private Car.
There are also many choices for private car hire.  One we have used many times is Lansky fka. DK’s Livery Service.   Others have recommended Execucar (a branch of Supershuttle) to us. And there are many more. Private car services are treated differently by the airport.  The drivers are allowed to park and then meet you as you leave the secure area.  Some car services have mini vans or SUVs available for families or groups with more luggage.  Prices for services vary but can be similar to a taxi or private van. On our last trip we paid $180USD for a return trip.

Again there are lots of options in this category so do your research.

Lansky fks. DK's Livery Service
SuperShuttle Execucar

Option 4:The Disneyland Express Bus
 For those of you familiar with Disney’s Magical Express Buss in Orlando... this is not it.   UPDATE! This service has now ended.

​Option 5: Car Rental
Lots of different agencies operate out of the LAX area.  This can be a good option if you are going to be adding on other parts to your trip.  Maybe you want to explore LA or go down to Legoland or San Diego or to the beaches.  If you have plans that include destinations other than Disneyland then this would be the best way to go.  Definitely shop around as I find prices can vary wildly. Also, check if car seats are available, or if you have to supply your own.

List of Car Rental Companies allowed to operate at LAX with links

Insider Tip:  Most Disneyland area hotels charge an additional fee for parking.  This can vary from around $5-$20 USD per day.  Don't forget to factor this into your budget.    If you choose to drive to Disneyland and park, the current daily parking fee is $17 USD.

Option 6:Taxi
 This is a fairly expensive option,  approx. $100 USD for one way to Disneyland area.    Also need to bring your own carseats if you need them. IMO not my preferred option. I would rather have the executive car service for that price.

Option 7: Uber and Lyft
Ride share services from LAX have exploded in popularity over the past few years.  So much so that LAX has had to put new procedures in place to deal with the volume. Look for our post on How to Catch an Uber t LAX coming soon. Depending on demand and the type of service you have selected you can expect to pay aproximately $50 and up for a trip to the Disneyland area.

Remember, all this is based on our personal experiences and opinions . (YMMV).  All links are provided for information purposes only and do not represent an endorsement of their services.  

If you enjoyed this post, you may be interested in one of our other Disneyland posts.

Comments? Questions? What ways do you prefer to get to the parks from LAX? We would love to hear from you.