Closest beach to Disneyland?

[ItzKaren]

We'll be in Disneyland at DLH for 7 nights....beginning July 1st. How far is the closest beach? We have a 6-day hopper pass....which means that we will have to choose one day that we don't go to DL/DCA. Thought we might take a drive....and haven't been to the ocean in awhile. Any suggestions?

Also....other suggestions for the "non-Disney" day? For an off-site dinner/drive....would you choose Medieval Times or Knott's Berry's fried chicken? (Been to both years ago) There's 4 of us....DH, DS-age 15, DD-turning 10 at DL, and me-mom.

Thanks for all of the great DL tips provided on this Board. I've gotten so much info for our trip.....much has changed since our last visit 5 years ago......can hardly believe that 1 week from tonight.....we'll be there!!!

Thanks in advance for the info...... Karen

 

[tinagirl]

The nearest beach is most likely Newport, although I don't usually go to that area, as we typically go to Malibu, Zuma or Santa Monica. As per what to eat for dinner, that is up to your style. If you decide to go to a medieval times, then go during Monday - Thursday, because discounts are allowed then, while they aren't on the weekend. You can use AAA or print off a coupon from the Medieval times website. (www.medievaltimes.com). As per Knott's Chicken Dinner Restraunt...it is really really good, and will cost you far less, because there is no show. Actually, if you go in the evening you can get the After 4pm pass for $20 per adult and $15 per child, and eat Dinner in the park and it would cost you the same (well, actually less) then going to Medieval times. Knott's has some great coasters (With brand new Xcellerator...click here for a picture. http://www.knotts.com/park/tour/brdwalk/imgs/xcelerator_rendering.jpg )

You'll love the park so it's really up to what you want to try.

All my best
~Tina

 

[Planogirl]

tinagirl, you did it again!

I've been considering going to Knott's but I wasn't sure if I wanted to spend the money. This may just solve this for me. Plus I've heard that the restaurant is good which will make DH happy.

Thanks!

 

[ItzKaren]

Hi Planogirl and Tina,
Great info.....and thanks for adding the links. Took a family vote....and Medieval Times won.....DH and DS "don't want to go to Knott's". I didn't protest.....since I was thinking of an activity that didn't involve more walking....trying to think ahead about my post-surgery knee!!

But I would love to have the Knott's Fried Chicken!! Can you just go to the restaurant there for dinner without paying park entrance? That would certainly be a winner.....once again.....many thanks for all of the great help!! You both have been lifesavers!! Till next time....Karen
p.s./printed the coupons for MedTimes off the link...thnx!

 

[almostGoofy]

Huntington Beach is another alternative to Newport for a close beach. Might even be a bit closer but drive time would probably be the same, about 1/2 hour.

Huntington Beach has miles and miles of beach because there are actually three beaches that run together: Huntington State Beach, Huntington City Beach, and Bolsa Chica. Huntington City and Bolsa Chica beaches are the better beaches to go to. Better water quality. There's a nice little main street you can stroll down and on Friday afternoons next to the pier (which is right at the end of main street) there's a Farmer's market and crafts fair.

You might even consider going to the beach in the late afternoon to watch the sunset and for a bonfire. There are fire pits along the beach during the summer. Just pick up a cord or two of firewood at any of the local supermarkets and roast marshmellows or weiners over an open flame.

 

[WebmasterMaryJo]

<font color=navy>At Knotts, the Chicken Restaurant is located outside of the amusement park itself, so you can eat there, and do a bit of window shopping while you're there. They have a nice Kitchen/jam store there.

As for the beaches, I think Newport Beach is nicer for the type of waves there if your family plans on swimming/boogie boarding in the ocean. Write-up on a day @ Newport Beach Also, there are some nice restaurants around there, including one at the end of the pier, where you can sit outside & have lunch/snack & drink while enjoying the ocean view.

Huntington Beach has steeper waves that tend to crash on the beach, but like almostGoofy said, there are fire pits there, and it's a great beach for a picnic with a fire while you watch the sun set.