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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Houston?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Houston? 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. 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.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Houston: 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
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Houston. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Houston are popular destinations, Houston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Houston is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, 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 Houston and is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

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

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's 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 Houston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Houston is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

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 Houston Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

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

The nightlife in Houston has something for everybody. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston Better for Music?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Houston is a popular place for live music. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Houston Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Houston Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Houston 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 Houston. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

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 Houston Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Houston 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.

Houston is a very family-friendly destination. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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 Houston Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Cumberland Island National Seashore frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Houston is a good island for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Houston Better for Students?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Houston 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 Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Houston 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 Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Houston

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known 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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable island. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.


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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Houston. In our opinion, Houston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Houston than Cumberland Island National Seashore. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Houston. 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 Houston 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 Houston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Houston 2-3

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Houston?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Because Houston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Houston?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer.

Many people visit Houston 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 Houston?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Houston is a popular place to visit. The southern city of Houston 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 Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Houston. 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, Houston 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 Houston is $262. 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 Houston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Houston $142
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Houston $284
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Houston

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


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: Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Houston $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • William P.Hobby Airport (HOU): Transfer to Port of Galveston: $540
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): Transfer to Houston: $347
  • SUV Airport Transfer in Houston: $200
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $193
  • George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Transfer: $193
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan from-to HoustonAirport in Houston Downtown: $176
  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $168
  • William P. Hobby Airport to Galveston Port Arrival Transfer: $168
  • Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162

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

Prices for flights to both Houston 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
    Houston $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Seasonal Pizza From Scratch Experience in Houston: $55
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $72
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $87
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Houston $14

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Houston Ghosts and Hauntings By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 2 Hours H- Town Tour with 15ft Open Air Party Truck On Wheels: $46
  • 2-Hour Private Sightseeing Cart Tour of Houston and Galveston: $256
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Admission and Shuttle: $85
  • Astroville Private Best of Houston City Driving Tour: $375
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour & NASA Space Center Admission with Shuttle: $85
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned): $32
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Condtioned): $32
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Houston $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

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

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Houston, we can see that Houston 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive?.



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

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 Houston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Houston. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Houston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Cumberland Island National Seashore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Houston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Houston 84°F (29°C)

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

Both Houston and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally around the same temperature as Houston. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Houston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Houston 71°F (22°C)

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

Both Houston and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the winter are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Houston in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in January than Houston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Houston 52°F (11°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Houston. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Houston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Houston. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Houston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Houston and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Houston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)