A Travel Price Comparison for Georgia Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Jekyll Island for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island? 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 secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a natural, relaxing, and secluded island. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Jekyll Island: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jekyll Island than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jekyll Island is better known for its museums, food, resorts, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. Also, Jekyll Island is famous for Driftwood Beach.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Jekyll Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Jekyll Island is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

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 Jekyll Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries 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 Jekyll Island Better for Nightlife?

Neither Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cumberland Island National Seashore Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

People don't go to Jekyll Island for the nightlife. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Cumberland Island National Seashore visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

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

Jekyll Island is adequate for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

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 Jekyll Island Better for Families?

Jekyll Island is a great island 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.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

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 Jekyll Island Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a island with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable island. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the undeveloped destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Jekyll Island, you'll find museums. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Jekyll Island?

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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the untouched destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Jekyll Island is a popular place to visit. The secluded island of Jekyll Island offers museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Jekyll Island?

You'll find around the beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Jekyll Island. Most people come for the beaches. 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 comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Jekyll Island, we can see that Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island Expensive?.

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

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 Jekyll Island in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally around the same temperature as Jekyll Island. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jekyll Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Jekyll Island. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Jekyll Island. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Jekyll Island in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Jekyll Island. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jekyll Island receives 214 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Jekyll Island. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Jekyll Island and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year.

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Jekyll Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Jekyll Island averages at about 53°F (12°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Jekyll Island during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Jekyll Island. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Jekyll Island and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally around the same temperature as Jekyll Island. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Jekyll Island. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jekyll Island receives 285 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Jekyll Island. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Jekyll Island and Cumberland Island National Seashore