Best Area to stay in LA with two young kids?

[XAVIER]

Myself and DW have been to LA before (Many,many moons ago!) but may return next year with our two youngsters (Aged 5 and 7).
Is Anaheim the best area to stay?
Or are there some beach areas with nice hotels where the kids can be let loose? (i.e. Santa Monica or wherever.)
Any advice would be appreciated!

[XAVIER]

Bump.
Anyone?

[Michelle]

Hi Xavier! If you're planning on JUST doing Disneyland/DCA and the Anaheim area, then staying in Anaheim is just fine.

If you want to spend some time at the beaches, then there are definitely plenty of good beach areas where you could spend some time. Santa Monica is nice, but I'd personally go with Newport Beach (in Orange County) as it is less congested and MUCH closer to Anaheim. Aside from nice beaches, there are also several nice hotels in the area, good restaurants and excellent shopping. :D

[XAVIER]

Thanks Michelle, I'll have a look at hotels in the Newport Beach area - it sounds ideal.