A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Canaveral vs. Cumberland Island National Seashore for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a iconic, fascinating, and wonder-filled town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a untouched, pristine, and secluded island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Cape Canaveral and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cape Canaveral than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cape Canaveral is better known for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. Also, Cape Canaveral is famous for The Kennedy Space Center. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cape Canaveral is an amazing town to visit for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Cape Canaveral from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cape Canaveral. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral is adequate for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Cape Canaveral doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Cape Canaveral has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cape Canaveral. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

Is Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cape Canaveral. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral is an amazing town to visit 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cape Canaveral is a very family-friendly destination. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both very good to visit as a couple.

Cape Canaveral is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Cape Canaveral is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You won't find any hostels in the area, but you may have some luck finding affordable accommodation nearby.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known 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 Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

Is Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable island. 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.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.

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

Should I spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cape Canaveral and Cumberland Island National Seashore. In our opinion, Cape Canaveral has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cape Canaveral than Cumberland Island National Seashore. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Cape Canaveral 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore.

One day in Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Cape Canaveral, you'll find food and shopping. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Cape Canaveral for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. 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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cape Canaveral is a popular place to visit. The fascinating town of Cape Canaveral offers museums and food. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Cape Canaveral. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Canaveral and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Cape Canaveral is more expensive. And not only is Cumberland Island National Seashore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cape Canaveral would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Canaveral than you might in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

When is the best time to visit Cape Canaveral 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 Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Summer?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Canaveral in July average around 80°F (27°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Autumn?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Cape Canaveral during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cape Canaveral is generally a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 74°F (24°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cape Canaveral is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Cumberland Island National Seashore. The winter months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Cumberland Island National Seashore. The beaches are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Canaveral in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 68°F (20°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Cape Canaveral