A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Cumberland Island National Seashore for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Cumberland Island National Seashore. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a laid back, idyllic, and relaxing island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a pristine, secluded, and undeveloped island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking.

Isla Mujeres and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations, Isla Mujeres has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isla Mujeres is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Isla Mujeres is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also well known for the Underwater Museum of Art. Cumberland Island National Seashore is famous for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Isla Mujeres. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Neither Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore offer quality museums and landmarks.

Isla Mujeres offers a few options for museum-goers. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

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.

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

Isla Mujeres is a great island 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 Isla Mujeres. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

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 Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres has a few options to choose from. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

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 Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Isla Mujeres is a great choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Isla Mujeres a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres and Cumberland Island National Seashore both offer amazing beaches.

Isla Mujeres offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

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.

Is Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

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 Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water 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 Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Isla Mujeres makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

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.

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

Both Isla Mujeres and Cumberland Island National Seashore are superb destinations for backpackers.

Isla Mujeres is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

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

Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

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 Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

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

Isla Mujeres is very walkable. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

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 Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isla Mujeres and Cumberland Island National Seashore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than in Isla Mujeres. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres 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 Isla Mujeres.

One day in Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Isla Mujeres, you'll find nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, many people enjoy the that this pristine island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Isla Mujeres 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Isla Mujeres is a popular place to visit. The relaxing island of Isla Mujeres offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the undeveloped destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Isla Mujeres. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Isla Mujeres and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Isla Mujeres is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Isla Mujeres Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.