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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head? 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.

Nags Head

Other reasons to visit include food.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Nags Head are both popular with visitors, Cumberland Island National Seashore has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head is known for its food. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. It is also home to the Dungeness Ruins. Nags Head is popular for

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Nags Head 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 Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

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 Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

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

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Cumberland Island National Seashore can be found for those interested. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Nags Head is a great 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.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

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 Nags Head Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for backpackers.

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.

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have 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.

Nags Head does not have public transit.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Nags Head

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is somewhat walkable. 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.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Nags Head 4-7

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head?

You'll find around the island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nags Head, you'll find 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 Nags Head?

You'll find around the untouched destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Nags Head for a weekend. 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 Nags Head?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the undeveloped island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nags Head is a popular place to visit. In Nags Head, you'll find food. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Nags Head, you'll find food. This is a popular place to visit for one week. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Nags Head 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 Nags Head is $149. 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 Nags Head in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Nags Head $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Nags Head $160
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Nags Head

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Nags Head? 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 Nags Head


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Nags Head $40

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

Prices for flights to both Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $41

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

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nags Head.

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Corolla Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13

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


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



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

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 Nags Head in the Summer?

Both Nags Head and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Nags Head in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nags Head fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. 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 Nags Head during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nags Head. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C)

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

Both Nags Head and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Nags Head averages at about 62°F (16°C).

In Nags Head, 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 around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in October than Nags Head. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Nags Head. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nags Head in the winter for the cuisine.

Nags Head can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Nags Head. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Nags Head in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Nags Head fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nags Head. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Nags Head
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)