For most families, a full-service resort in Anaheim is the better choice for a short, hands-off trip, while a VRBO rental wins for longer stays or bigger groups who want their own kitchen and space. A Disney trip is mostly about the parks, so the real question is how close you sleep and how much room you need.
| Accommodation Type | Best For | Pros | Cons | Booking Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Family Resorts | Parents who want zero cooking, cleaning, or planning; resort amenities; easy park access. | On-site dining, pools, kids’ clubs, concierge, daily housekeeping, often walkable to parks. | Less space, potentially higher cost, less privacy, limited kitchen facilities. | |
| Private VRBO Vacation Rentals | Larger families, longer stays, budget-conscious travelers, those who prefer home comforts. | Full kitchens, laundry, separate bedrooms, more space, privacy, often more affordable. | No daily housekeeping, fewer on-site amenities, potential for less immediate park access. |
Option A: Full-Service Family Resorts
For parents who want to hand off everything, a full-service hotel means no cooking and no beds to make. Two good examples at different prices:
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
- What it’s like: Craftsman-style and grand, with its own entrance into Disney California Adventure.
- The Pool: Several pools, including one with a waterslide, and plenty of lounge chairs for parents.
- Tip: The park entrance next door means midday naps back at the room are easy.
- Good to know: It is a splurge, and dining on site is expensive.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground
- What it’s like: A mid-priced hotel across from the Disneyland Resort, busy with families.
- The Pool: A water playground with slides and splash features, plus regular pools.
- Tip: It is a short walk to the park gates, so you can skip parking at Disney.
- Good to know: Rooms are simple, so bring breakfast food to save on meals.
Option B: Private VRBO Vacation Rentals
Sometimes a hotel room is too small, especially with young kids. A rental gives you a kitchen, separate bedrooms for naps and a living room to sit in after bedtime. Laundry is a big help on longer trips.
The Verdict: Which Should You Book?
Here is how to choose:
- Choose a Resort if: You want zero cooking, zero cleaning, and maximum pampering. You prioritize on-site amenities, easy park access, and don’t mind a smaller space. You’re looking for that classic ‘vacation’ feel where everything is taken care of.
- Choose a VRBO if: You’re a larger family, staying for an extended period, or prefer the comforts of home. You want a full kitchen to save on food costs, laundry facilities, and separate bedrooms for naps and bedtime routines. You’re happy to do a little more self-sufficiency for more space and privacy.
FAQs About Staying in Anaheim
Are Anaheim resorts walkable to Disneyland?
Many are, especially along Harbor Boulevard. Check the distance and whether there is a shuttle when you book.
Can I save money by staying in a VRBO in Anaheim?
Often, yes, especially for larger families or longer stays. A kitchen and laundry cut the costs of eating out and hotel services.
Do VRBO rentals in Anaheim have pools?
Many do. Use the pool filter on VRBO, and look at condos and townhomes with a shared community pool.