How to Get From the Airport to Disneyland: Transportation Guide for Your Trip

When you’re flying into Southern California for your Disneyland vacation, you’ll need a plan for getting from the airport to your Disneyland Resort hotel. There are several options depending on which airport you arrive at, your budget, and how much convenience you want. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you choose the best transportation for your family.

My Personal Recommendation

I prefer Uber or Lyft for most Disneyland travelers.

They’re fast, easy, and usually the most cost-effective because you pay per car, not per person. No need to lock in a pickup time ahead of your flight, just request a ride when you’re ready. If your flight is delayed, no stress. You aren’t trying to track down a shuttle driver.

I always keep both apps on my phone and compare prices in the moment since they fluctuate.

You should book your transportation yourself.

With frequent last-minute flight changes, it’s much easier if you’re the direct point of contact. That way you won’t be dependent on reaching me to adjust anything, and you’ll never be stuck waiting at the airport.

Shuttle Option: Karmel Shuttle

If you prefer a shuttle, Karmel Shuttle is the recommended shared-ride service for Disneyland. They offer vans, SUVs, town cars, and buses depending on your party size.

Pickup locations vary slightly by airport, but they always send you the vehicle number and license plate for easy confirmation.

Transportation by Airport

Below is a simplified, traveler-friendly version of what you can expect at each airport.

  • Distance to Disneyland: ~40 miles

    Best for: Lowest airfare, but longest transfer time

    Easiest Options:

    • Uber/Lyft — usually the simplest and fastest door-to-door choice

    • Karmel Shuttle — picks up on the Lower/Arrivals level at each terminal

    Public Transit (Only if you’re adventurous):

    LAX Shuttle “G” → Metro Green Line → Metro Express Bus 460 to Disneyland

  • Distance to Disneyland: ~15 miles

    Best for: Shortest and easiest transfers

    Easiest Options:

    • Uber/Lyft — fast, straightforward, and the most popular option

    • Karmel Shuttle — picks up at the Ground Transportation Center

    • Taxis — flat rates available

    Public bus routes are available but not recommended for families headed to Disneyland.

  • Distance to Disneyland: ~13 miles

    Best for: Small airport, easy arrival, quick ride share pickup

    Easiest Options:

    • Uber/Lyft

    • Karmel Shuttle — picks up on the middle island curb

    • Taxis — flat rates available

  • Distance to Disneyland: ~42 miles

    Best for: Travelers wanting a stress-free, small airport experience

    Easiest Options:

    • Uber/Lyft

    • Shuttles & taxis — available outside both terminals

    Public Transit Option:

    Amtrak or Metrolink trains connect Burbank to Anaheim, but require transferring.

  • Distance to Disneyland: ~34 miles

    Best for: Less crowded alternative to LAX

    Easiest Options:

    • Uber/Lyft

    • Shuttles, taxis, limos — available outside baggage claim

    Public transit is available with multiple transfers, but not ideal for families.

  • Distance to Disneyland: ~96 miles

    Best for: Pairing Disneyland with a San Diego vacation

    Easiest Options:

    • Uber/Lyft — most direct, but the longest ride

    • Shuttles & taxis — available at all terminals

    • Train Option: MTS Bus 992 → Santa Fe Depot → Amtrak Pacific Surfliner → Anaheim