[Dana]

Welcome to DC.!!

I can help with a few of the question, but not all of them

#2 the transportation.

WDW doesn not have thier own tranportation but I highly reccomend you taking TiffanyTown Cars. They are a sponsor of this site and I have used them twice now. They will be waiting at baggage claim for you party and will take you directly from the airport to your resort...not waiting other than for your bags. It will cost about $85 for a round trip. If you get a Passporter Guide book from your local book store (I highly reccomend doing this), you will also save $8 for having it with you when you get picked up. There is a coupon in the back of the book. The driver just looks at it and it doesn't have to be removed.

#3 beach or not?
It is a beach and a beautiful one to boot..don't go in the water however.

#4 to plan or not?
You should try and plan at least one meal a day and make a Priority Seating for it. I do not reccomend "winging it" but you can make loose plans by making a list of attractions that are a must see for each person in hte family and go from there. It's not wise to go in there with no knowledge of the layout and stand there helplessly with a guide map. Go in that jungle prepared. Anotehr reason to buy the Passporter...has colored maps of each park.

Park Hopper?
I would go for the park hopper. You're kids will love the other parks..maybe not Epcot, but you never know. Some kids love it. You could try it for a half a day and then go check out MGM for the other half. You are going to be there for five days and I can't see you spending 5 days in just MK and AK. Ak can been seen by 3pm if you go at the park open. MGM has Muppets 3D, Playhouse Disney and toher great shows the kids will enjoy. Just leave yourself with some options and purchase your tickets before you go...costs less.

Sorry all the info I personally have, but I am certain someone else will have much more. Hang in there and welcome again.