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

Should you visit Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a untouched, pristine, and secluded island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Islamorada and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches and hiking. Islamorada is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Islamorada 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 Islamorada. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Islamorada is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

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

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Islamorada is a great village 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 Islamorada. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

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 Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Islamorada 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 Islamorada has a few options to choose from. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Islamorada has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.


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

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Islamorada is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few good snorkeling spots. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

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

Is Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for its beaches. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the beache.

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.

The beaches at Islamorada attract visitors from all over. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Is Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for hiking. However, Islamorada 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.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


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

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Islamorada 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 Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

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 Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Islamorada is an amazing village 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, Islamorada is a very family-friendly destination. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

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 Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Islamorada makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

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

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

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

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known 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 Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

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

Islamorada
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is somewhat walkable. 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.

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.


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

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

How long in Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Cumberland Island National Seashore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

Couples should spend more time in Islamorada than Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Islamorada 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3

One day in Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Islamorada, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With around the secluded island of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Islamorada for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

With around the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Islamorada is a popular place to visit. In Islamorada, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cumberland Island National Seashore, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Islamorada, you'll find museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cumberland Island National Seashore or Islamorada?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $145, while the average daily cost in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $148. 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 Islamorada and Cumberland Island National Seashore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore? 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 Islamorada


Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore


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: Islamorada Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59

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

Prices for flights to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $47
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 1.5 Hour (20 miles) Waverunner Tour. See Mangrove Tunnels, 20 Islands & SandBar: $225
  • Day Tour Glass Bottom Boat In Islamorada: $80
  • From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour: $1,515
  • Islamorada Florida Keys Sunset Sightseeing Cruise Music : $86
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure on Pontoon : $80
  • Guided Tour with Local Highlights: $95
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip: $130
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip from Cheeca Spa: $140
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $150
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $160
  • Snorkeling Experience : $80
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25


When comparing the travel costs between Islamorada and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Islamorada Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.



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

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 Islamorada or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Summer?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C)

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Islamorada is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 214 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Cumberland Island National Seashore. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Cumberland Island National Seashore. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Islamorada

Islamorada Cumberland Island National Seashore
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)