Are All Rental Car Companies at LAX Off-site?

[rgoble5972]

We will be arriving at LAX at 8:00pm. I am trying to decide between renting a car or taking a shuttle to DLR. We will be staying at the Grand Californian and will only be visiting Disneyland and DCA, so we don't really need a rental car except for transportation to and from the airport. I have driven from LAX to DLR and around Southern California several times, so I don't mind driving there.

Does anyone have any experience with how long it takes for the rental process and trip to DLR vs. taking a shuttle? Are all the car rental agencies off-site? There are 3 of us going so the cost for a shuttle will be $75 round trip, while I got a $65 rental car rate with National (although that doesn't include the parking fee at the hotel).

Mostly, I just want to get from LAX to DLR as quickly as possible. Any suggestions?

Thanks,

[LuvTigger]

Yes, all the rental car companies are off-site from LAX. The shuttles are right outside baggage claim, and it usually doesn't take very long for the shuttle to come and drop you off at the company. I've rented through several different companies and it's never taken very long. My guess is from the time you get on the shuttle to the time you drive away from the company, maybe 30 minutes. (Someone with very recent experience with this, correct me if I'm wrong.)

The thing about shuttles is that they usually stop at a bunch of other hotels, and who knows whether you're one of the first or last to get off. My guess is the car rental would be faster and more convenient. Plus, it gives you more options if you decide you want to do something a little further away from DL. As long as you self-park, it's included in the $5.75 (?) per day "resort fee." (Valet will cost you big though!)

[GeorgeY]

And just another note on the Grand Californian, Self Parking is very easy. It is directly across the street from the Grand and there is a crosswalk back with a light so crossing is easy as well.

George

[rgoble5972]

Thanks for the information! I do like the freedom of having a car and your comments were very reassuring. I think I'll go with the rental car.