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

Should you visit Marathon 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 Marathon 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.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food.

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.

Marathon and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Marathon have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Marathon is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its museums, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

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

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

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

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marathon is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

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 Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Marathon 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 Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Marathon is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Marathon is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

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

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

Marathon has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

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

Is Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for shopping. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Marathon is a great island 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.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

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 Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Marathon and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both very good to visit as a couple.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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

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

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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon 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 Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination 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.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

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

How long in Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Marathon 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.

One day in Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Marathon, you'll find nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Marathon 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Marathon is a popular place to visit. In Marathon, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Marathon, you'll find nightlife and food. This is a popular place to visit for one week. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

When is the best time to visit Marathon 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 Marathon or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Summer?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon 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.

Marathon is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon 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 Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Marathon 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, Marathon usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Marathon 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.

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, 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, Marathon is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon 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 Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Marathon 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 Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Marathon 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.

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

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

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

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

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Marathon 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.

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

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

Marathon is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon 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 Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Marathon 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.

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Marathon