A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Virginia Beach for Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach? 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a relaxing, bustling, and fun-filled coastal city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Virginia Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Virginia Beach are popular destinations, Cumberland Island National Seashore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for its museums, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Virginia Beach attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and resorts. Cumberland Island National Seashore is famous for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. It is also well known for the Dungeness Ruins. Virginia Beach is famous for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Virginia Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach 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.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

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

Virginia Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

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 Virginia Beach Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach has a few options to choose from. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

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 Virginia Beach Better for Resorts?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Virginia Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for the beache. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the beach.

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 Virginia Beach. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

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.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach 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.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a great coastal city 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.

Virginia Beach is a very family-friendly destination. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

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 Virginia Beach Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

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.

Virginia Beach is a good island for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Many backpackers visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach Better for Students?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Virginia Beach. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Cumberland Island National Seashore is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Virginia Beach

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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.

Virginia Beach is generally not very walkable. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.


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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Virginia Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Virginia Beach than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 5-7 days is enough time in Virginia Beach.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Virginia Beach 5-7

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. 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 Virginia Beach?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many people visit Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Virginia Beach is a popular place to visit. In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach is $126. 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 Virginia Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Virginia Beach $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Virginia Beach $142
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Virginia Beach

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach? 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 Virginia Beach


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: Virginia Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Virginia Beach $39

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Virginia Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Virginia Beach:


  • Beach Parking
    $10

Is it cheaper to fly into Cumberland Island National Seashore or Virginia Beach?

Prices for flights to both Virginia Beach 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
    Virginia Beach $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Virginia Beach $21

Tours and Activities in Virginia Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Virginia Beach.

  • Dolphin Kayak Tour in Virginia Beach: $75
  • Kayak Dolphin Experience in Virginia Beach: $75
  • Neptune Ghosts: Ghosts of the Coast By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour: $68
  • Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours: $68
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Virginia Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Dolphin Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour: $60
  • Kayak Dolphin Tours: $78
  • Morning Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Neptune Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Sunset Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Virginia Historic Adventure!: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Virginia Beach $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Virginia Beach, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore is more expensive. And not only is Virginia Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Virginia Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach.

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 Virginia Beach Expensive?.



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

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 Virginia Beach in the Summer?

Both Virginia Beach and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Virginia Beach. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Virginia Beach averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Virginia Beach receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Virginia Beach. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Virginia Beach 79°F (26°C)

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

Both Virginia Beach and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Virginia Beach for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Virginia Beach. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

In Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Virginia Beach receives 211 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Virginia Beach. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Virginia Beach. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the cuisine.

The weather in Virginia Beach can be very cold. Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Virginia Beach in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Virginia Beach fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Virginia Beach during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Virginia Beach receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Virginia Beach. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Virginia Beach 39°F (4°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Virginia Beach. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Virginia Beach. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Virginia Beach averages at about 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Virginia Beach receives 253 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Virginia Beach. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Virginia Beach receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Virginia Beach 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Virginia Beach and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Virginia Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)