The weather in August at Disneyland is definitely better than it is at WDW! Hedy is right - hot but low humidity. Crowds shouldn't be bad. Most locals can't go the first half of August with their annual passes.
Definitely stay offsite - they are called "Good Neighbor" hotels. I have stayed at the Sheraton and liked it - they have a free shuttle to the parks.
You can also do the beach while you're in southern California - Disneyland is about 40 minutes from the ocean if you are so inclined. If you have any more specific questions, let me know. I am an annual pass holder and go about once a month.
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