A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Beaver Creek for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek? 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 untouched, pristine, and secluded island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and food.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaver Creek. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Beaver Creek are both popular with visitors, Beaver Creek has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaver Creek is more popular for its skiing, theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its museums, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere It is also home to Beaver Creek Golf Club. 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 Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an amazing town to visit for skiing. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Beaver Creek should be on your list. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is mediocre for theatre. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a theatre destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a great 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 Beaver Creek. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

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 Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is adequate for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Beaver Creek doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

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 Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

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.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for hiking. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

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 Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek 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, Beaver Creek is a very family-friendly destination. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Beaver Creek make for a very good 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.

Beaver Creek is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

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 Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Beaver Creek is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

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 Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

Couples should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek 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.


  • How many days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, many people enjoy the that this secluded island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find skiing and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. 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 Beaver Creek?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people visit Beaver Creek 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.


Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

You'll find around the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Beaver Creek is a popular place to visit. In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find skiing and food. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $148, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $316. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek? 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore


Hotels in Beaver Creek


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: Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Cumberland Island National Seashore or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Cumberland Island National Seashore 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
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $38
    Beaver Creek $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Beaver Creek $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Beaver Creek $35


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