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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Boone

Boone is a picturesque, charming, and relaxing town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Boone: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boone than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boone is better known for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Boone is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. Also, Boone is famous for the Blue Ridge Parkway. 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 Boone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boone 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 Boone Better for Skiing?

Boone is a great town for skiing. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a skiing destination.

Boone offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a skiing destination.

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

Boone is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Boone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boone 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 Boone. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize 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 Boone Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Boone has something for everybody. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.

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 Boone Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Boone is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular vacation 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.

Boone is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for hiking. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking. 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.

Boone is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

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

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boone. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

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 Boone Better for Families?

Boone is a great town 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.

Boone is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

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 Boone Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Boone make for a great 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.

Boone is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boone. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone Better for Students?

Boone is an amazing town to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boone. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Boone both offer respectable 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 Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone a more walkable city?

Boone is a great 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.

Boone is very walkable. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

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 Boone Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone?

It's fun to spend time in either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Boone due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-4 days is enough time in Boone.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boone 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 Boone.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, many people enjoy the that this secluded destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Boone is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Boone?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people visit Boone for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Boone?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Boone is a popular place to visit. Because Boone is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Boone?

You'll find around the undeveloped destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Since Boone is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Boone, we can see that Boone 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 Boone would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boone 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 Boone Expensive?.