A Travel Price Comparison for Georgia Blue Ridge vs. Cumberland Island National Seashore for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a outdoorsy, historic, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Blue Ridge. Although Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both popular with visitors, Blue Ridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Blue Ridge is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Blue Ridge is popular for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Chattahoochee National Forest. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Blue Ridge different from Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Blue Ridge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Blue Ridge is adequate for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Blue Ridge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is the Food Better in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Blue Ridge is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Blue Ridge is a popular place for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Blue Ridge has a few options to choose from. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Blue Ridge. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Blue Ridge is a great town for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Blue Ridge. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Blue Ridge is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Blue Ridge is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Is Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore both superb destinations for a couple.

Blue Ridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

Couples visit Cumberland Island National Seashore frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

Is Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Blue Ridge is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great town to visit for backpackers. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Is Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore are good when it comes to walkability.

Blue Ridge is somewhat walkable. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable place. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

For even more information, also check out Is Blue Ridge Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Blue Ridge?

How long in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Blue Ridge than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Blue Ridge, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

Families should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Blue Ridge, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Blue Ridge that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Cumberland Island National Seashore if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Blue Ridge.

One day in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Blue Ridge is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With around the undeveloped island of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Blue Ridge for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With around the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Blue Ridge is a popular place to visit. Even though Blue Ridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cumberland Island National Seashore, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Since Blue Ridge is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore is more expensive. And not only is Blue Ridge much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Blue Ridge would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Blue Ridge and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cumberland Island National Seashore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cumberland Island National Seashore than you might in Blue Ridge.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Blue Ridge Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Blue Ridge and Cumberland Island National Seashore. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Blue Ridge is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore in the summer. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In Blue Ridge, it's very sunny this time of the year. Blue Ridge usually receives less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Blue Ridge gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cumberland Island National Seashore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Blue Ridge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Blue Ridge usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Blue Ridge gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Blue Ridge as well as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Blue Ridge is cooler than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Blue Ridge in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Blue Ridge this time of the year. In the autumn, Blue Ridge often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Blue Ridge gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 214 hours of full sun.

Blue Ridge usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Blue Ridge gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Winter?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Blue Ridge are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Blue Ridge in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Blue Ridge can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Blue Ridge is generally much colder than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 40°F (5°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Blue Ridge usually receives less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during winter. Blue Ridge gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Blue Ridge. In January, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Blue Ridge gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Spring?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Blue Ridge during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Blue Ridge is cooler than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Blue Ridge. In the spring, Blue Ridge often gets less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Blue Ridge gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in April than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Blue Ridge gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Blue Ridge