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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? 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 undeveloped, untouched, and pristine island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cumberland Island National Seashore is better known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is famous for the Dungeness Ruins.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is adequate for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is adequate for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is adequate for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the hiking trails. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is adequate for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are excellent 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a island with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable island. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable island. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. In our opinion, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Cumberland Island National Seashore. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, many people enjoy the that this secluded destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This island offers something for everyone.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place to visit. The peaceful recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive?.