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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Berkeley than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Berkeley is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Berkeley is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Also, Berkeley is famous for University of California Botanical Garden. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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 Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city 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 Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced 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 Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Berkeley has something for everybody. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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 Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the beach. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

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 Berkeley Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

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

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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Cumberland Island National Seashore is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

For backpackers, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Berkeley are very good places to visit.

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.

Berkeley is a great island to visit for backpackers. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley Better for Students?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.


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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Berkeley is top-notch. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Berkeley a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Berkeley

Berkeley is an amazing city 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.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Cumberland Island National Seashore. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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


  • How many days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley?

The beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Berkeley, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Berkeley?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Berkeley 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 Berkeley?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley is a popular place to visit. The diverse city of Berkeley offers shopping and museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Berkeley. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley 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 Berkeley is $190. 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 Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Berkeley? 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 Berkeley


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: Berkeley Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $44

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

Prices for flights to both Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $36

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $14
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Berkeley:

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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



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

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 Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Berkeley in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°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 Berkeley. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Berkeley. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Berkeley. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in January than Berkeley. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

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

Both Berkeley and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)