How to Get From Disneyland to LAX (2024 Guide)

Visiting Disneyland in Anaheim, California, is a magical experience! But eventually the time comes to leave the Happiest Place on Earth and head back home. For those flying out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), finding the best way to get there is crucial as Disneyland doesn’t provide a shuttle transfer service. LAX is about 35 miles northwest of Disneyland, and with Southern California’s infamously bad traffic, getting to the airport can be a journey in itself.

Getting from the airport to Disneyland is relatively easy, but if you’re staying on-site and don’t have a rental car, how will you get back to the airport? Luckily you have several transportation options to choose from, each with its own costs and travel times.

Whether you prioritize speed, cost, or convenience, this transit guide will help you navigate the options available, including taxis, trains, and public buses. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped to choose the best method for getting to LAX from Disneyland based on your schedule, budget, and preferences.

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1. Uber/Lyft or Taxi

When it comes to convenience, taking an Uber or taxi from Disneyland to LAX is the best choice. You can enjoy a private, direct ride to the airport without worrying about multiple stops or transfers, and all you have to do is book one ride.

How It Works:

Booking a rideshare is straightforward—just open your preferred app, enter your destination as LAX, and choose your preferred vehicle type (UberX, UberXL, etc.). You can also schedule a ride in advance to ensure a driver is available when you’re ready to leave (though this can be hit-or-miss if you need to leave at an unusual time, like very early in the morning).

For a taxi, ask the concierge at your on-site hotel to book a taxi for you, or use a ride-hailing app like Curb.

Estimated Cost:

The cost of an Uber or taxi ride to LAX can vary due to factors like the time of day, traffic, and overall demand. On average, you can expect to pay between $70 and $110.

Surge pricing during peak hours or special events can increase these rates, so it’s wise to check the price in advance through the app.

Estimated Travel Time:

Travel time from Disneyland to LAX by car typically ranges from 40 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route primarily follows the I-5 North and then either the I-110 or I-405, both of which are known for heavy congestion, especially during rush hours (7-10am and 4-7pm).

Pros:

• Convenience: Door-to-door service with no transfers.
• Privacy: A private vehicle just for your party.
• Flexibility: Available 24/7 with no need for advance booking (except for scheduled rides).

Cons:

• Cost Variability: Prices fluctuate based on traffic and demand.
• Traffic Delays: Heavy traffic can significantly increase travel time.

If convenience and comfort are your top priorities and you’re willing to pay a bit more, an Uber or taxi is a great option.

✈️ Use the extra time you saved by visiting an airport lounge before your flight!

2. Shuttle Service

For those looking for a balance between cost and convenience, a shared shuttle service provides that middle ground. Shared shuttles offer door-to-door service at a lower price point than a private car, but with the trade-off of potentially sharing the ride with other passengers.

How It Works:

Shared shuttles like SuperShuttle, Prime Time Shuttle, and Karmel Shuttle operate regularly between Disneyland and LAX. You’ll need to book your ride in advance online.

When you book, you’ll provide your pick-up location and flight details, and the service will assign you a pick-up time designed to get you to the airport on time. Keep in mind that since this is a shared service, the shuttle may make multiple stops along the way to pick up or drop off other passengers.

I’ve used shuttles myself and it’s very easy, though slightly frustrating if you’re a nervous flyer who just wants to get to the airport as soon as possible. Because the shuttle makes stops for other passengers, you might have to wait longer than you’d like to get to your terminal.

Estimated Cost:

The cost for a shared shuttle ranges from $70-150 per person. Some companies offer discounts for groups or round-trip bookings, so it’s worth checking for deals if you’re traveling with family or friends.

I’ve noticed that most shuttle companies nowadays seem to have switched to doing more private fares rather than the older style of just cramming in a bunch of strangers. That means costs have increased compared to a few years ago. If you’re going by yourself, it might be cheaper to just take an Uber.

🚖 Use GetTransfer.com to search for shuttles and airport transfer services quickly and easily.

Estimated Travel Time:

Travel time can range from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops the shuttle makes. While it’s generally faster than public transit, the potential for multiple stops adds to the travel time compared to a direct ride like with Uber.

Pros:

• Affordability: Less expensive than a private car, especially if you’re traveling with family.
• Door-to-Door Service: Convenient pick-up and drop-off at your exact location.
• Predictability: Fixed prices, no surge pricing.

Cons:

• Longer Travel Time: Additional stops can lengthen the journey.
• Advance Booking Required: You need to plan ahead to secure a spot.
• Affordability: If you’re a solo traveler, it’s actually cheaper to get an Uber.

A shared shuttle is ideal for travelers who want to save money while still enjoying the convenience of door-to-door service.

3. Amtrak Train + LAX FlyAway Bus

For those who prefer a scenic journey with fewer traffic worries, combining an Amtrak train with the LAX FlyAway Bus is a good option. This route offers a mix of train travel and a comfortable bus ride, making it a great choice for travelers who aren’t in a rush.

This is the one I use whenever I need to get to LAX from Anaheim! It’s fast and easy, and very comfortable.

How It Works:

Start by taking an Amtrak train from the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC), located about 2 miles from Disneyland. You can get there by public bus or taxi. The ART Bus, for instance, will take you from Disneyland to ARTIC for $4 one way (adult fare).

The Pacific Surfliner route will take you to Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. Once you arrive at Union Station, you can transfer to the LAX FlyAway Bus, which will take you directly to your terminal at LAX.

Estimated Cost:

The combined cost for this journey is between $20-$30, depending on the class of service you choose on Amtrak and how far you purchase tickets in advance. Amtrak tickets typically cost $10–$20, while the LAX FlyAway Bus fare is $9.75 for one way.

Estimated Travel Time:

The entire trip usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. The train ride from Anaheim ARTIC station to Union Station is around 45 minutes to an hour, and the FlyAway Bus ride from Union Station to LAX takes another 30 to 45 minutes.

Pros:

• Scenic Ride: Enjoy views of the city.
• No Traffic Worries: Reliable schedule with no delays from road congestion.
• Comfortable: Spacious seating and amenities on Amtrak.

Cons:

• Longer Travel Time: Slower than driving directly.
• Multiple Transfers: Requires switching from train to bus, and of course you have to get to ARTIC first.

The Amtrak + FlyAway combo is a great option if you value a relaxing trip and don’t mind spending a bit more time traveling.

Related: Best Travel Podcasts (2024) — something to listen to on your train journey

4. Metrolink Train + LAX FlyAway Bus

Similar to the Amtrak option, the Metrolink train combined with the LAX FlyAway Bus offers another viable public transit route to LAX. However, it’s important to note that Metrolink operates on a more limited schedule, particularly on weekends and holidays. It’s a commuter train, so it mostly only runs in the mornings and evenings.

You can check the Metrolink schedules here.

How It Works:

From the ARTIC station, catch a Metrolink Orange County Line train heading to Union Station in downtown Los Angeles. Like the Amtrak route, you’ll transfer at Union Station to the LAX FlyAway Bus for the final leg of the journey to the airport.

Estimated Cost:

This is one of the most affordable routes. A Metrolink ticket costs $8.75 one way, and the FlyAway Bus is an additional $9.75, for a total of only $18.50 (not including the bus to the ARTIC station).

Estimated Travel Time:

Travel time is similar to the Amtrak route, taking about 2 to 2.5 hours in total. The Metrolink train ride to Union Station takes 45 minutes to an hour, followed by the 30 to 45-minute bus ride to LAX.

Pros:

• Affordable: Less expensive than Amtrak.
• Comfortable: Reliable train service with few delays.
• Scenic Route: Enjoyable views during the ride.

Cons:

• Limited Schedule: Fewer trains, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Multiple Transfers: Like Amtrak, requires switching from train to bus.

The Metrolink + FlyAway option is suitable for budget-conscious travelers, but it’s important to check the schedule carefully to ensure it aligns with your flight time.

Related: How to Travel the World Without a Car

5. Public Bus/Metro

If you’re traveling on a tight budget and don’t mind a longer journey, taking public buses from Disneyland to LAX is the most economical option. However, this method is also the most complex and time-consuming due to multiple transfers. If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a big family, it might be better to just book an Uber or shuttle service.

I’ve written a detailed guide on getting from LAX to Anaheim using the public bus/metro. Just reverse it to go the other way. 😉

How It Works:

To get to LAX by public bus, you’ll need to combine services from the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) and the Los Angeles Metro system. First, take the OCTA bus from Disneyland to the Norwalk Green Line Station. From there, board the Metro Green Line to the Aviation/LAX Station, where you can transfer to the LAX Shuttle, which takes you to your terminal.

Estimated Cost:

The total cost for this route is UNDER $10, making it the cheapest option. OCTA and Metro bus fares are typically $2–$4 per ride, and the LAX Shuttle is free.

Estimated Travel Time:

This route can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours, as you’ll need to make several transfers and potentially wait for a bus up to 30+ minutes. If you have a super tight schedule, just skip this route and take the train.

Pros:

• Most Affordable: Cheapest way to get to LAX.
• Accessible: Public transportation is widely available and the routes have decent coverage.

Cons:

• Long Travel Time: Expect 3 to 4 hours of travel.
• Complex Transfers: Multiple buses and trains required.
• Inconvenient with Luggage: Not ideal for travelers with heavy or bulky luggage.

Public buses are best suited for budget travelers who have plenty of time and are comfortable navigating multiple transfers. If you’ve never taken public transit before, don’t let this be your first time.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to getting from Disneyland to LAX, what you’ll chose will depend on what you prioritize the most. If you’re looking for convenience and don’t mind paying more, an Uber or taxi is your best bet. Want to save money but still be comfortable? A shared shuttle is a solid choice.

If you’re interested in a scenic and relaxed journey, the Amtrak or Metrolink train combined with the LAX FlyAway Bus is a good alternative. Lastly, for those on a tight budget, the public bus system offers the most economical way to reach the airport, albeit with a much longer travel time.

No matter which option you choose, planning ahead is key to ensuring a smooth trip from Disneyland to LAX. Safe travels!