Which place is cheaper, Charleston or Cumberland Island National Seashore?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charleston? 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 is a pristine, secluded, and undeveloped island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.
Charleston is a historic, classic, and picturesque coastal town. 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 beaches, shopping, and museums.
Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Charleston is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charleston and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Charleston is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.
Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.
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.
Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.
For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.
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.
Charleston is a popular place for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.
If you're looking for night time activities Charleston has a few options to choose from. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.
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.
Charleston is a popular place for live music. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.
The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.
Charleston is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.
Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its beaches.
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.
The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.
Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its historic old town. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.
Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.
Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston 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.
Charleston is not a hiking destination.
Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in Charleston. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.
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.
Charleston is a great coastal town for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not offer Christmas activities.
Charleston is a very popular destination during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.
Cumberland Island National Seashore does not offer Christmas activities.
Charleston is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not offer Christmas markets.
Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.
Cumberland Island National Seashore does not offer Christmas markets.
Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charleston.
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.
Charleston is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.
Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for romance. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.
Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.
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.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is notable for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.
Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.
Charleston is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.
It's common for students to visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.
Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charleston 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 Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.
Charleston 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.
Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.
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 Charleston Worth Visiting?.
Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.
Families should spend more time in Charleston than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Charleston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Charleston than Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Charleston that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston 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 Charleston.
With around the pristine 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.
In Charleston, you'll find live music and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.
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 Charleston for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.
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.
Charleston is a popular place to visit. In Charleston, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.
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.
In Charleston, you'll find museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here.
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 Charleston is $170. 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 Charleston in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charleston? 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.
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.
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Charleston:
Prices for flights to both Charleston 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.
Some typical examples of dining costs in Charleston are as follows:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Charleston.
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Charleston are as follows:
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Charleston are as follows:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Charleston:
When comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charleston, we can see that Charleston 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 Charleston Expensive?.
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.
Both Charleston 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 Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).
In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.
Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in July than Charleston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charleston. 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 Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).
In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Charleston. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).
In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.
Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Charleston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Charleston 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 beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.
In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).
It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Cumberland Island National Seashore | Charleston | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 53°F (12°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) | 47°F (9°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) |
Feb | 56°F (13°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 50°F (10°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) |
Mar | 62°F (17°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | 58°F (14°C) | 4.3 inches (110 mm) |
Apr | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) | 64°F (18°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) |
May | 74°F (24°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 4.2 inches (106 mm) |
Jun | 80°F (27°C) | 5.7 inches (146 mm) | 78°F (26°C) | 6.4 inches (163 mm) |
Jul | 82°F (28°C) | 5.4 inches (137 mm) | 82°F (28°C) | 6.9 inches (176 mm) |
Aug | 82°F (28°C) | 7.8 inches (199 mm) | 81°F (27°C) | 7.1 inches (181 mm) |
Sep | 79°F (26°C) | 7.1 inches (180 mm) | 76°F (25°C) | 4.8 inches (121 mm) |
Oct | 70°F (21°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) | 67°F (19°C) | 2.9 inches (74 mm) |
Nov | 62°F (17°C) | 2.2 inches (55 mm) | 58°F (15°C) | 2.5 inches (63 mm) |
Dec | 56°F (13°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 51°F (10°C) | 3.1 inches (78 mm) |