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.  This is a large touring style bus operated by Grayline that you can purchase airport transfers for. The busses operate 7 days a week and currently are picking up at LAX Starting with Terminal 1 and stopping at all 7 terminals before departing tor Disneyland.  Check departure times as we have found that our flights often land in LAX after the last departure  (currently 8pm) so this is not an option for us.  This is a middle of the road option in terms of price.  See link to site and brochure for both times and prices.  But think aprox. $30 USD for each adult one way.  1 child aged 3-11 travels free per paying adult and as this is a bus not a car or van so  car seats are not required.
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Disneyland Express Bus Information 

​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.

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.  
 
Update:   Find more information on Lyft, Inc. and Rasier-CA, LLC (Uber) the LAX website here and information  on where to meet them at the terminal.  Because we have never used these services in LA we can't advise you on prices.  If readers have information to add on this, please comment.
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All photos by Jennifer Stuart

Thoughts?
​What ways do you prefer to get to the parks from LAX?