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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Cumberland Island National Seashore can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a untouched, pristine, and secluded island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Tallahassee and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Tallahassee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cumberland Island National Seashore is better known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is famous for the Dungeness Ruins. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

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

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

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Tallahassee is a great city for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

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

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

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 Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

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 Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.


Is Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Around Cumberland Island National Seashore visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

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

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

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 Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Both Tallahassee and Cumberland Island National Seashore are notable to visit with kids.

Tallahassee offers lots of family activities. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

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 Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

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

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Is Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Tallahassee is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.


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

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Tallahassee and Cumberland Island National Seashore both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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 Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a island with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable island. 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.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

How long in Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3

One day in Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Tallahassee, you'll find nightlife and shopping. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the untouched island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Tallahassee for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the undeveloped destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Tallahassee is a popular place to visit. The lively city of Tallahassee offers museums and nightlife. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The secluded island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Tallahassee or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Tallahassee. 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. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $156, 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 Tallahassee and Cumberland Island National Seashore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59

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

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $245
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $483
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $376

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25


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



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

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

In the summer, Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tallahassee in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 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 Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Tallahassee gets 283 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. It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. In July, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 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
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C)

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Tallahassee during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tallahassee in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Tallahassee is generally around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 69°F (20°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. In the autumn, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tallahassee gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 214 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore in the winter. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Tallahassee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore during winter. Tallahassee gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 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
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C)

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

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

In the spring, Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tallahassee in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 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 Tallahassee this time of the year. In the spring, Tallahassee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tallahassee gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in April than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Cumberland Island National Seashore
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)


Related Articles for Cumberland Island National Seashore