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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park? 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.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Redwood National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cumberland Island National Seashore is better known for its beaches, while Redwood National Park is more popular for its impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is famous for the Dungeness Ruins.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

Neither Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park offer quality 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.

Redwood National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

Neither Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park offer quality cuisine.

While Cumberland Island National Seashore is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Most people don't head to Redwood National Park for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

Neither Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park for the nightlife. The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

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

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.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore and Redwood National Park both have amazing trails.

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

Many people visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

Neither Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park offer decent shopping options.

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.

Redwood National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a great park 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.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Redwood National Park make for a superb place to visit.

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.

Redwood National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Redwood National Park

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable island. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park?

In either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park than Cumberland Island National Seashore if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Redwood National Park.


  • How many days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, one day is sufficent for most.

In Redwood National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island. It offers something for everyone.

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


Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a popular place to visit. In Redwood National Park, you'll find . One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park?

You'll find around the undeveloped destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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, Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park is $111. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Redwood National Park? 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 Redwood National Park


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Redwood National Park $53

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

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Redwood National Park $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Redwood National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Redwood National Park, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood National Park 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cumberland Island National Seashore than you might in Redwood National Park.

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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.



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

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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 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 Redwood National Park. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

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

Both Redwood National Park 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 hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°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 Redwood National Park during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Redwood National Park. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

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

Both Redwood National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the winter are popular places to visit.

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

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

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

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Redwood National Park. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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