A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Bar Harbor for Beaches, Hiking, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor? 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 pristine, secluded, and undeveloped island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a picturesque, relaxed, and quaint coastal town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bar Harbor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bar Harbor. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bar Harbor are both popular with visitors, Bar Harbor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bar Harbor is more popular for its food, resorts, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its museums, beaches, and hiking. Bar Harbor is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park. It is also home to Acadia National Park. 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 Bar Harbor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bar Harbor is a great coastal 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 Bar Harbor. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

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 Bar Harbor Better for Nightlife?

Neither Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cumberland Island National Seashore Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

People don't go to Bar Harbor for the nightlife. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor Better for Resorts?

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

Bar Harbor has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for its beaches. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit 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.

Bar Harbor offers a nice beach destination. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Bar Harbor offers some nice hiking trails. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

Bar Harbor is a great coastal town for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bar Harbor. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.

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 Bar Harbor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers lots of family activities. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bar Harbor make for a excellent place to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Bar Harbor is a very popular place to visit for couples. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town 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.

Bar Harbor is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's a small town with mostly high end accommodation so budget travelers and backpackers will struggle to find a place to stay.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bar Harbor both offer decent public transit to get you around.

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 generally limited in Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor a more walkable city?

Bar Harbor is a great coastal town for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Bar Harbor is very walkable. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

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 Bar Harbor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bar Harbor or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bar Harbor. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bar Harbor.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Bar Harbor 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

With around the secluded 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.

Bar Harbor is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

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.

Many people visit Bar Harbor 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.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

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.

Bar Harbor is a popular place to visit. Because Bar Harbor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

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.

Since Bar Harbor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bar Harbor, we can see that Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bar Harbor 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Bar Harbor Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor?

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 Bar Harbor in the Summer?

Both Bar Harbor and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Bar Harbor in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Bar Harbor. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bar Harbor. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bar Harbor because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Bar Harbor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Bar Harbor averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Bar Harbor. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Bar Harbor. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Bar Harbor this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bar Harbor in the winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Bar Harbor. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in January than Bar Harbor. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bar Harbor in the Spring?

Both Bar Harbor and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Bar Harbor in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Bar Harbor. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bar Harbor and Cumberland Island National Seashore