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

Should you visit Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and adventurous beach town. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Cocoa Beach and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cocoa Beach than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cocoa Beach is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cocoa Beach is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Also, Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Cocoa Beach offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cocoa Beach is a great beach 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 Cocoa Beach. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

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

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for the beach. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Cocoa Beach is considered a top beach destination. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Is Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

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.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is an amazing beach 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, Cocoa Beach is a very family-friendly destination. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach and Cumberland Island National Seashore both superb destinations for a couple.

Cocoa Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options 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.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.

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

Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach and Cumberland Island National Seashore are notable when it comes to walkability.

Cocoa Beach is a somewhat walkable beach town. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is somewhat walkable. 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 Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Cocoa Beach, you'll find nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the secluded island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Cocoa Beach for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place to visit. In Cocoa Beach, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The untouched island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cocoa Beach. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cocoa Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 82°F (28°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Autumn?

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

In October, Cocoa Beach is generally a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 77°F (25°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Winter?

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

Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the winter. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 63°F (17°C) in January, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cocoa Beach in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 68°F (20°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Cocoa Beach