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

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and Cumberland Island National Seashore can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a laid-back, cultural, and coastal town. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

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.

Puerto Vallarta and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Puerto Vallarta than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Puerto Vallarta is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Puerto Vallarta is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. Also, Puerto Vallarta is famous for the Malecon. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

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

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

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

Puerto Vallarta is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Vallarta is a great town 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 Puerto Vallarta. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Puerto Vallarta has something for everybody. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Puerto Vallarta is an amazing town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Puerto Vallarta is a great choice. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

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

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Puerto Vallarta. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

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

Is Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Puerto Vallarta. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Puerto Vallarta. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Puerto Vallarta is a great town 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.

Puerto Vallarta is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Cumberland Island National Seashore are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

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

Both Puerto Vallarta and Cumberland Island National Seashore are great destinations for backpackers.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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.

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

Puerto Vallarta 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 Puerto Vallarta offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

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

Puerto Vallarta is very walkable. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

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 Puerto Vallarta Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Puerto Vallarta and Cumberland Island National Seashore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Vallarta, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta 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 Puerto Vallarta.

One day in Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Puerto Vallarta, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 untouched destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Puerto Vallarta 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.

The island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular place to visit. In Puerto Vallarta, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Puerto Vallarta or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Puerto Vallarta. 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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