A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Cumberland Island National Seashore for Beaches, Hiking, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cabo San Lucas and Cumberland Island National Seashore can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a idyllic, wild, and adventurous city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a undeveloped, untouched, and pristine island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking.

Cabo San Lucas and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both popular with visitors, Cabo San Lucas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cabo San Lucas is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches and hiking. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to Land's End. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cabo San Lucas 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 Cabo San Lucas. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Cabo San Lucas is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a great city 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 Cabo San Lucas. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Cabo San Lucas has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Cabo San Lucas is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Many of the resorts are along parts of the coastline where it's not safe to swim. If you really want to enjoy swimming at a beachfront property, make sure you do some research in advance. Medano Beach is a nice area to consider.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Cabo San Lucas. There are many snorkeling and scuba diving excursions that go out on half day and full day trips. Some of the best snorkeling is found at Cabo Pulmo, which has the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Many people visit Cabo San Lucas for it's beautiful beaches. Because of the water conditions, it's not safe to swim at many of the beaches in the area. This is particularly true on the Pacific side of the city. Many people consider Medano Beach to be one of the best in the area, but also nice are Lover's Beach, the ironically named Divorce Beach, and Chileno Beach.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its historic old town. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cabo San Lucas. San Jose del Cabo is an "old town" that's a bit outside of town. It's particularly nice to visit on Thursdays when there's a nice market.

Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Cumberland Island National Seashore visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas for the hiking trails. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cabo San Lucas. There are many great shopping areas where you can pick up souvenirs or other interesting items to remember your trip. There are mall, markets, and boutique vendors that sell a variety of products.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a great city 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.

Cabo San Lucas is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the snorkeling, boat rides, and kid-friendly cuisine. There are many places where kids can get up close and personal with animals, such as Wild Canyon’s Kingdom or camel riding. You might even be able to see migrating whales during your visit. Surfing, fishing, and hiking are also popular in the area.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Cabo San Lucas makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination and couples who enjoy a beach paradise with wildlife, diving, and outdoor adventures will appreciate Cabo San Lucas. There's also amazing Mexican food and world class resorts.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas and Cumberland Island National Seashore are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cabo San Lucas. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Many backpackers visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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 Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

While Cabo San Lucas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Public transit is generally 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.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Cabo San Lucas is very walkable. The town is relatively easy to walk around with many things close together.

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 Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cabo San Lucas and Cumberland Island National Seashore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas 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 Cabo San Lucas.


  • How many days in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cabo San Lucas 3-7 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3

One day in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Cabo San Lucas for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place to visit. In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find shopping and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for one week. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cumberland Island National Seashore or Cabo San Lucas?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cabo San Lucas is $139, while the average daily cost in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cabo San Lucas and Cumberland Island National Seashore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cabo San Lucas $63
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cabo San Lucas $126
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
Compare Hotels in Cabo San Lucas and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Looking for a hotel in Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cabo San Lucas


Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cabo San Lucas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cabo San Lucas $28
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cabo San Lucas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cabo San Lucas:

  • Los Cabos Airport (SJD): Transfer to Cabo San Lucas Port: $436
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Airport to Pacific Side: $300
  • Transfer from Airport to Cabo San Lucas: $300
  • Los Cabos Luxury Private Tesla Transfer from Airport to the Pacifica Area: $293
  • Private All Inclusive Diamante Area Roundtrip Airport Transfer: $280
  • Los Cabos Luxury Private Tesla Transfer from Airport to Cabo San Lucas Area: $261
  • Private Transfer from Accommodation to Restaurant in Los Cabos: $250
  • Private Transfer from Los Cabos Airport to Cabo San Lucas: $250
  • Private All Inclusive Cabo San Lucas Roundtrip Airport Transfer: $250
  • Private Transfer from Cabo San Lucas to La Paz: $240
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Airport to Cabo San Lucas: $240
  • Los Cabos Luxury Private Tesla Airport Transfer: $236

Is it cheaper to fly into Cabo San Lucas or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Prices for flights to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Cabo San Lucas change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cabo San Lucas $51
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cabo San Lucas

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cabo San Lucas.

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Domestic Open Bar: $64
  • Tasting Cabo San Lucas Like a Local Food Tour: $70
  • Cabo San Lucas Sunset Cruise with Dinner and Open Bar: $75
  • Seafood Galore, Los Cabos Food Tour: $80
  • Sea to Table Fisherman's Seafood Tour in Cabo San Lucas: $80
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Tequila & tacos: $85
  • San Jose del Cabo Morning Food Tour: $86
  • Parrillada dinner with a Private Chef in your villa/condo in Cabo or San Jose: $86
  • San José del Cabo for Meat Lovers Food Tour: $90
  • Catch of the day dinner in your private villa/condo in Cabo or San Jose del Cabo: $90
  • Private Mexican Cooking Class in Your Cabo San Lucas Villa or Condo: $90
  • Cabo Sunset Dinner Cruise: Fajitas, Lands End and Party: $94

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cabo San Lucas $43
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23

Tours and Activities in Cabo San Lucas

Here are a few actual costs in Cabo San Lucas for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Glass Bottom Boat Sightseeing Tour in Cabo San Lucas: $23
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tour: $20
  • Magical Todos Santos Tour, Camel ranch, Lunch & Tequila: $119
  • OffRoad 4X4 UTV Adventure with Lunch & Tequila : $199
  • Romantic tour in Cabo San Lucas: $186
  • Round Trip to Touristic Corridor : $180
  • Traditional Tequila Tasting Experience with Jorge Cuervo: $55
  • Your Own Private Luxury Yacht Experience in Cabo, Lunch included: $1.20
  • #1 Snorkeling Tour in Catamaran. Open bar & Snacks included: $80
  • "Exclusive Cabo San Lucas Trimaran Experience with Snorkeling": $180
  • 2-Hour ATV Riding Experience in San Jose del Cabo: $110
  • 2-Hour Camel Ride Beach and Desert Adventure Experience: $100

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cabo San Lucas $28
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Cabo San Lucas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cabo San Lucas:

  • Cabo Bar Crawl - The BEST Bar and Clubs in Cabo : $55
  • Wine Tasting Sunset Cruise Tour in San Jose del Cabo: $190


When comparing the travel costs between Cabo San Lucas and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


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