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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine? 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portland, Maine than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portland, Maine is better known for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its museums, beaches, and hiking. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks. Also, Portland, Maine is famous for The Portland Head Light.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

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 Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Portland, Maine is a popular place for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

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 Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

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.

Portland, Maine is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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 include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting 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 Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is adequate for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not offer Christmas activities.

Portland, Maine has some seasonal activities during Christmas. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Cumberland Island National Seashore does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers lots of family activities. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Portland, Maine is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known 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.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable island. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

The secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Portland, Maine, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Portland, Maine?

The island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Portland, Maine?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Portland, Maine is a popular place to visit. The scenic coastal town of Portland, Maine offers shopping and nightlife. 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 Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Portland, Maine. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Portland, Maine, we can see that Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine?

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 Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Portland, Maine. The summer months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

Both Portland, Maine and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the winter are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland, Maine can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Portland, Maine. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Portland, Maine. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine 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 more sunshine than Portland, Maine during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Cumberland Island National Seashore