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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu? 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Honolulu. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Honolulu are both popular with visitors, Honolulu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Honolulu is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Honolulu from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

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 Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Honolulu 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 Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

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 Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Honolulu has something for everybody. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

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 Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Honolulu is a great choice. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a great city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Honolulu. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Honolulu are terrific choices.

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.

With world-famous beaches, Honolulu is a very popular vacation destination. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore and Honolulu both have terrific trails.

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.

Many people visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

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

Honolulu 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 Honolulu. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

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 Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Honolulu is a very family-friendly destination. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

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 Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Honolulu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

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.

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

For backpackers, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is a great island to visit for backpackers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

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

Honolulu 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 Honolulu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

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 Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is a great city for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Honolulu is very walkable. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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 Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

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

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

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu?

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.

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Honolulu?

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 Honolulu for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu?

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.

Honolulu is a popular place to visit. Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu?

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.

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This is a popular place to visit for one week. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu 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 Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu 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 Honolulu Expensive?.

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Honolulu in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. 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 Honolulu during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Honolulu and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is cooler than Honolulu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Honolulu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in October than Honolulu. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Honolulu. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Honolulu. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is cooler than Honolulu in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Honolulu. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in April than Honolulu. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Cumberland Island National Seashore