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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

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.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a colorful, glitzy, and flashy city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlantic City. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Atlantic City are both popular with visitors, Atlantic City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Atlantic City is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Atlantic City is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality It is also home to Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Atlantic City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Atlantic City is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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

Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Atlantic City. In our opinion, Atlantic City has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Atlantic City 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore than Atlantic City. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Atlantic City, you'll find nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many people visit Atlantic City for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the pristine destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

Atlantic City is a popular place to visit. The flashy city of Atlantic City offers shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

You'll find around the beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Atlantic City. 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. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Atlantic City, we can see that Atlantic City 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Atlantic City Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Atlantic City. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Atlantic City in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Atlantic City. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atlantic City. Cumberland Island National Seashore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Atlantic City. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City in the Autumn?

Both Atlantic City and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Atlantic City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Atlantic City averages at about 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Atlantic City. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City in the Winter?

Both Atlantic City and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the winter are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Atlantic City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Atlantic City. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 146 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Atlantic City. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Atlantic City in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Atlantic City. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Atlantic City in the spring for the beaches.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Atlantic City in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlantic City this time of the year. In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Atlantic City. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Atlantic City and Cumberland Island National Seashore