Planning a trip to DL

[heatherbynum]

Here it is 6 months from us going to Disney World and I am already thinking about Disneyland lol.

We have talked about wanting to go to Disneyland sometime in 2012, preferably after cars land opens up. I have never been to Disneyland so not even sure where to start with the planning. We also want to visit a close beach since we have never been on the Pacific and I was thinking of going to Hollywood for a little bit too, since we will be out that way.

When do you think the best time is to go? Best motels to stay at?

How many days would you say are needed to visit the parks?

Please share all info you can for a DL and California newb

Thanks everyone

 

[skiingfast]

For times, crowd wise WDW and DLR are very similiar except DLR has a more pronounced upswing on the weekends and downswing on the weekdays. This is because most visitors are local. You will also see this in hotel rates where weekends can cost close to double. For beaches I would aim for Summer through mid Fall because the Pacific is colder than the gulf.

3-5 parks days. Closer to 5 if you go during a weekend or holiday period as the crowds thicken. Hours are longer on the weekend and short during the week particulairly during the offseason. This effects entertainment because there is no F! or Firworks when the parks close early.

Stay as close as possible. Hotels across from the park on Harbor are most ideal.


Read this thread, it's for WDW vets, as one you have a lot of things to look at to bring expectations in line for a DLR visit.
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

 

[PinkBudgie]

By that time I would say min. 4 days, but 5 is better. Even now 3 days is starting to be not enough time. With Carsland, I expect more days to be needed.

Our favorite time is July. It is crowded, but not as bad as some of the shorter holidays. The parks are open early and late, summer shows are up and running, and Socal APs are blocked out. We've stayed at Candy Cane Inn right next door twice now and really like it. You can see my review with pics in my sig. Free breakfast and free shuttle but an easy quick walk.

I don't know much about beaches down there because we never go. We just go to DLR and also visit my sister and that's it.

If you read the DLR boards regularly you should aquire plenty of info before you go. You have time to soak it in as opposed to taking a crash course.

 

[Funball]

you know looking at a park map might also help you in planning, at least u will get a good look at the lay of the land and know what to expect before hand!