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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia? 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking.

Columbia

Columbia is a suburban, friendly, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia are popular destinations, Cumberland Island National Seashore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Columbia attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Columbia and is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. It is also well known for the Dungeness Ruins. Columbia is famous for its southern hospitality and friendly people.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Columbia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Columbia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are some decent museums around town like the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Military Museum, the South Carolina State Museum, and the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training 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 Columbia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia is adequate for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Columbia offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Barbecue and other southern favorites are among the more local dishes, but the city is also filled with fast food joints and other major chain 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 Columbia Better for Nightlife?

Columbia 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 Columbia has a few options to choose from. You'll find live music venues as well as low key bars and more trendy cocktail lounges.

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 Columbia Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the beache. However, Columbia is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Columbia is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Columbia is not a hiking destination.

People visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Columbia is not a hiking destination.

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

Columbia 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 Columbia. You'll find independent and locally owned shops along Devine Street and in the Five Points area. Also interesting are the Vista, which is a warehouse district, and Trenholm Plaza.

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 Columbia Better for Families?

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

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.

Columbia is a family-friendly place to visit. Around town you'll find parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. There's a zoo in the area as well as a nice state park - Sesquicentennial State Park. There's also EdVenture Children's Museum, which is filled with hands-on exhibits.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for its romantic activities. However, Columbia is not a good city for couples.

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.

Columbia is not always the best place to visit for a couple. You'll find parks to explore and some nice restaurants that make for a good date night.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Columbia is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Columbia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not an expensive place to visit, there is little in the area to attract backpackers.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia Better for Students?

Columbia 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 Columbia. The University of South Carolina, and other nearby colleges all bring in a decent student population.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia both offer reasonable 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 Columbia. The COMET is the bus system through town, but you really must have your own car to enjoy the city.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Columbia is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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.

Columbia is not a very walkable island. It's filled with suburban-style development and is generally very car dependent.

For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Columbia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbia.

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

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

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia?

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 Columbia, you'll find nightlife and shopping. 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 Columbia?

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 Columbia 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 Columbia?

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.

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

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia?

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 nightlife and shopping when visiting Columbia. 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 Columbia, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore is more expensive. And not only is Columbia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Columbia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Columbia 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cumberland Island National Seashore than you might in Columbia.

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 Columbia Expensive?.

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

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 Columbia in the Summer?

Both Columbia and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Columbia this time of year.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Columbia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Columbia averages at about 82°F (28°C).

In Columbia, 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 Columbia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia receives 293 hours of full sun.

Columbia 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 more rain in July than Columbia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia for the shopping scene.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Columbia. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbia fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia this time of the year. In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Columbia during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia receives 230 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Columbia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Columbia. Also, many visitors come to Columbia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Columbia in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Columbia fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Columbia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia receives 171 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in January than Columbia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 3.7 inches (93 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Columbia and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Columbia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Columbia averages at about 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia. 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 Columbia during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Columbia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Columbia receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbia and Cumberland Island National Seashore