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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Dallas?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Dallas? 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.

Dallas

Dallas is a active, upscale, and chic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Dallas: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dallas. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Dallas are popular destinations, Dallas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dallas is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Dallas and is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Dallas is famous for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture. It is also well known for the Sixth Floor Museum.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Dallas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

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

Dallas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.

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 Dallas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

Dallas 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 Dallas. There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.

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 Dallas Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

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

The nightlife in Dallas has something for everybody. Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.

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 Dallas Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the beache. However, Dallas 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.

Dallas is not a beach destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Dallas Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

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

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.

Dallas is not a hiking destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

Dallas 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 Dallas. You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea 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 Dallas Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

Dallas is a great city 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.

Dallas is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with families, and you'll find many kid-friendly activities around town. For some outdoor time you can visit the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden or the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas Zoo is a favorite for many kids and there are also a number of kid-friendly museums around town such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas World Aquarium.

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 Dallas Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Dallas 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.

Dallas is a very popular place to visit for couples. Head to the observation deck at Reunion Tower for spectacular views of the night skyline. The city also has many great comedy clubs and performing arts venues as well as fine dining restaurants that make for a great date night.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Dallas 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.

Dallas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there are a couple of hostels around town, this isn't a popular destination for the backpacker crowd.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

Dallas is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

While Dallas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's still very much a car-centered city, the public transportation system, DART, is one of the fastest growing in the country. It includes both light rail and bus service.

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 Dallas a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dallas

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Dallas 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.

Dallas is generally not a very walkable island. The city is not particularly walkable, but there are several more walkable areas such as Ellum and Uptown.

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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Dallas?

It's fun to spend time in either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Dallas. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dallas 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 Dallas.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Dallas? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Dallas 2-4

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Dallas?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Dallas, 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 Dallas?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Dallas 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 Dallas?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dallas is a popular place to visit. The chic city of Dallas 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 Dallas?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 museums and nightlife when visiting Dallas. 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, Dallas 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 Dallas is $141. 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 Dallas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Dallas $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Dallas $168
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Dallas

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


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: Dallas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Dallas $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dallas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dallas:

  • Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW): Transfer to Dallas: $203
  • Roundtrip Transfer Private Minivan Dallas Airport (DFW) - Dallas City Center: $138
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dallas Airport DAL to Fort Worth by Luxury Vehicle: $135
  • Private Transfer from Dallas Airport DFW to Dallas in Luxury Van: $126
  • Private Transfer from Dallas Airport DFW to Dallas in Luxury SUV: $126
  • Departure Private Transfer: Dallas to Dallas Airport DFW in Luxury SUV: $126
  • RoundtripTransfer Executive Private Car Dallas Airport (DFW) -Dallas City Center: $120
  • Private Transfer Fort Worth Airport DFW to Downtown Fort Worth by Luxury Vehicle: $109
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Dallas Airport DFW to Dallas in Business Car: $105
  • Private Transfer from Dallas Airport DFW to Dallas in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer from Dallas to Dallas Airport DFW in Business Car: $101
  • Private Transfer Downtown Dallas to Fort Worth Airport DFW Luxury Vehicle: $92

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

Prices for flights to both Dallas 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
    Dallas $35

Typical Food Prices in Dallas

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


  • Cowboys Stadium Tour (for 2)
    $55
  • Whataburger Lunch (family of 4)
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dallas

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

  • West Village Happy Hour Food Tour: $39
  • Dallas Secret Food Tour: $97
  • Secret Food Tour of Dallas with Private Tour Option: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Dallas $13

Tours and Activities in Dallas

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

  • 2 Hour Dallas Night Sightseeing E-Scooter Tour: $90
  • Private Walking Tour of Dealey Plaza Assassination of JFK: $135
  • 1-Hour JFK Assassination Walking Tour: $28
  • 1-Hour JFK Assassination Walking Tour : $28
  • 2-Hour Historic Dallas Segway Tour: $79
  • 3-Hour Ropes Course & Zip Line Adventure : $60
  • 3hr Dallas Cowboys Stadium Small Group Tour with Transportation: $108
  • Combination Southfork Ranch and Dallas/JFK Highlights Tour: $145
  • Dallas Highlights Tour: $205
  • Dallas Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $114
  • Dallas Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Dallas and Cowboys Stadium Combo Tour: $153

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Dallas $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Dallas

Also in Dallas, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Deep Ellum and Downtown Dallas: $55
  • Dallas Party Bike Pub Crawl in Deep Ellum: $55


When comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Dallas, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Dallas Expensive?.



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

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 Dallas in the Summer?

Both Dallas and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dallas for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Dallas. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Dallas averages at about 88°F (31°C).

In Dallas, 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 less sunshine than Dallas. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dallas receives 337 hours of full sun.

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 Dallas. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Dallas receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Dallas 88°F (31°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Dallas. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dallas in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally around the same temperature as Dallas. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), and Dallas fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dallas 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 Dallas during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Dallas receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Dallas. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Dallas receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Dallas 69°F (21°C)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Dallas. Also, most visitors come to Dallas for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Dallas in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Dallas fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dallas. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dallas receives 183 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in January than Dallas. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Dallas receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Dallas 46°F (8°C)

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

Both Dallas and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dallas because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Dallas. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Dallas averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Dallas. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Dallas during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Dallas receives 251 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Dallas. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Dallas receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Dallas and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Dallas
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 76°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 88°F (31°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 87°F (31°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 50°F (10°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)