Our Upcoming Disneyland + Santa Monica Trip: How I’m Planning with a 6-Year-Old in Mind

We’re heading to Disneyland in California—and this isn’t just another trip.

We’re on a little family mission to visit different Disney parks over time, and this one is next on our list. It’s part magic, part chaos, and 100% core memory-making for my 6-year-old.

This time, we’re combining Disneyland + California Adventure with a beach reset in Santa Monica—a combo that keeps the excitement high and the overstimulation low. Here’s what our plan looks like, and how I’m making it work for a younger child (and a mom who still likes her coffee hot).

Disneyland with a 6-Year-Old

She’s at that perfect age—old enough to enjoy the rides, still young enough to think everything is magical.

Our Plan:

• 1 day at Disneyland Park

• 1 day at California Adventure

• Staying close to the parks so we can walk and take breaks

• Prioritizing characters, parades, and a handful of rides—not trying to “do it all”

We’re using Genie+ but only booking a few key Lightning Lanes (like Web Slingers, Small World, and maybe Toy Story Midway Mania).

How I’m Planning Smart (Not Perfect)

1. Light Structure, Lots of Flexibility

I have a loose itinerary: what park we’re hitting each day, must-do rides, meal reservations. But I’m not overscheduling—we need downtime for churros and people-watching.

2. Comfort Over Cute

She’s wearing her Minnie ears, but I’m skipping the costume this time. Just comfy dresses, sneakers, and a light hoodie for nighttime.

3. Must-Haves in My Park Bag

• Water bottle

• Snacks she actually eats

• Battery fan

• Mini first-aid kit

• Portable charger (for all the Genie+/photos/maps)

After Disney: Santa Monica Reset

After the back-to-back park days, we’re driving to Santa Monica for a little rest and reset.

Plans include:

• Beach mornings and bike rides

• Walking the pier (hello cotton candy + mini rides)

• Easy meals with a view

• Maybe a visit to the Annenberg Community Beach House for the pool if we’re feeling fancy

It’s a nice balance—Disneyland brings the magic, Santa Monica brings the calm.

Disneyland Packing Must-Haves (Affiliate Links)

1. Lightweight Stroller (Perfect for Bigger Kids)

Folds up easily, reclines, and handles theme park terrain like a champ.

👉 UPPAbaby G-LUXE Stroller

2. Portable Neck Fan

Kid-approved and keeps everyone cool in line or during parades.

👉 JISULIFE Bladeless Neck Fan

3. Disney Autograph Book + Sharpie

Great for character meet-and-greets—don’t forget a thick pen!

👉 Disney Autograph Book + Pen Set

4. Kids Water Bottle (Leakproof + Stylish)

Keeps drinks cold all day. The Owala flip straw is a game changer.

👉 Owala Kids FreeSip Water Bottle

5. Reusable Rain Ponchos

Perfect for water rides or surprise showers.

👉 Reusable Disney Rain Ponchos (6-Pack)

6. Sand-Free Beach Blanket

Folds up small, shakes off easily, and perfect for Santa Monica.

👉 WELLAX Sand-Free Beach Blanket

7. Kid’s Sun Hat

Wide brim, adjustable, and covers neck + ears.

👉 FURTALK Kids Wide Brim Sun Hat

8. Swimsuit + Rashguard Set

Obsessed with the fit, fabric, and sun coverage from this brand.

👉 Shady Critters Swimsuit Set

9. My Go-To Park Bag

Stylish, functional, and holds it all without feeling bulky.

👉 Happ Brand Levy Backpack

Why We’re Doing This

I didn’t grow up visiting all the parks—but now that I’m a mom, I want to create those memories with her. One park at a time. Different coasts. Different ages. Different versions of magic.

It doesn’t have to be big or perfect every time. Just intentional.

So if you’ve been thinking about planning a Disney trip—or starting your own adventure of visiting the parks—let this be your sign.

Follow Our Disney Park Adventures

We’re on a mission to visit as many Disney parks as we can—one trip at a time.

Different coasts, different ages, and a different kind of magic every time.

Next up? Maybe Paris… stay tuned

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