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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle?

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

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

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Seattle: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seattle is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Seattle is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a popular place for theatre. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Seattle has something for everybody. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a great city for live music. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Seattle has a thriving music scene. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

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

Seattle 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

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 Seattle Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle.

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.

Seattle is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Seattle is a good island to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Seattle is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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.

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

Seattle is a great city for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Seattle than Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Seattle that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle?

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

Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Seattle?

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

Many people visit Seattle 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 Seattle?

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

Seattle is a popular place to visit. The laid-back city of Seattle offers food and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Seattle?

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

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Seattle. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

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

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Seattle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Seattle. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Seattle. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Seattle. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Seattle and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. 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 Seattle during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Seattle. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Cumberland Island National Seashore