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

Should you visit Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Tampa and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tampa than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tampa is better known for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its museums, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. Also, Tampa is famous for Busch Gardens.

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

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tampa 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 Tampa. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

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 Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Tampa is adequate for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Tampa doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

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

Tampa is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

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

Is Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Tampa is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Is Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

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

People visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a good area for its shopping areas. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Tampa is a great city 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.

Tampa is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

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 Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options 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 Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options 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.

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

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

How long in Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tampa and Cumberland Island National Seashore. In our opinion, Cumberland Island National Seashore has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Tampa. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Tampa. 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Tampa, you'll find food. 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.

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, many people enjoy the that this pristine destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Tampa 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Tampa is a popular place to visit. The low-key city of Tampa offers food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find around the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tampa and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Tampa is more expensive. And not only is Cumberland Island National Seashore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Tampa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tampa than you might in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Cumberland Island National Seashore. The summer months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year.

In the summer, Tampa is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cumberland Island National Seashore receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Cumberland Island National Seashore. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 70°F (21°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 Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 214 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tampa for the cuisine.

Tampa is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tampa in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Tampa is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 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 Tampa