Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a longer vacation, this Cumberland Island National Seashore travel cost guide will help you understand the typical costs of a trip. Our Cumberland Island National Seashore trip cost calculator is based on average spending from thousands of past travelers, including accommodations, meals, attractions, entertainment, and transportation. Cumberland Island National Seashore is an untouched island known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses, and you don't want to miss out because you didn't plan the right budget. Whether you're relaxing on the beaches, hiking in nature, or taking in the beauty, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Cumberland Island National Seashore, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Cumberland Island National Seashore?
A typical traveler spends $175 per day on a trip to Cumberland Island National Seashore. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Cumberland Island National Seashore based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $65 on meals
- $59 on local transportation
- $149 on hotels
A one-week trip to Cumberland Island National Seashore for two people costs, on average, $2,450. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Cumberland Island National Seashore expensive to visit?
In Cumberland Island National Seashore, budget travelers spend $77 per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $175 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $335 per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Cumberland Island National Seashore.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is a smaller spot that entices a mix of tourists, showcasing various travel styles, financial habits, and budget considerations. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
You can find Cumberland Island National Seashore to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like enjoying the free hiking trails and spending long days at the beach can help you save money.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Duck Key or Isla Mujeres.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Cumberland Island National Seashore?
The average Cumberland Island National Seashore trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Cumberland Island National Seashore travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Cumberland Island National Seashore cost?
Cumberland Island National Seashore on a Budget
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Category
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Budget
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Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$33
|
$75
|
$143
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$26
|
$59
|
$112
|
|
Food2
|
$29
|
$65
|
$125
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$10
|
$23
|
$44
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$5-16
|
$13-38
|
$24-72
|
Accommodation Budget in Cumberland Island National Seashore
The range of hotel prices in Cumberland Island National Seashore can be pretty surprising. Luxury hotels tend to offer more amenities, but come with higher price tags, especially during peak season. The average off-season room is $176, but during peak winter season the average price can reach $328. From $80 for budget hotels to $465 for luxury, there's something for everyone. Hostels are cheaper, especially dorms. Book early or travel during the off-season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Cumberland Island National Seashore for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $149. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $75 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore include:
- Spencer House Inn starting at $249
- Goodbread House Bed and Breakfast starting at $186
- Riverview Hotel starting at $189
If you plan your trip outside of winter and during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better accommodation rates and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Cumberland Island National Seashore
The public transit system in Cumberland Island National Seashore is not very good. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.
Cumberland Island National Seashore has walkable areas that can facilitate your exploration of various attractions. 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.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $59 per person, per day, on local transportation in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Cumberland Island National Seashore is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$59
The only airport on the island is Stafford Airport for private use only, unless permitted otherwise. St Marys Airport is the next nearest, open for public use.
As far as major airports go, the closest is Jacksonville International Airport in Florida, which is served by Air Canada Express, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, American Eagle, Delta Airlines, Delta Connection, JetBlue Airways, Silver Airways, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and United Express. It is located about 30 miles south of St Marys, GA via I-95, from which you can take a ferry to the Cumberland Island National Seashore.
Once on the island, walking is the only method of transportation. Bikes are also available to rent.
When you're driving, make sure that your hotel has convenient parking, and confirm how much you'll need to pay for it.
How much does it cost to go to Cumberland Island National Seashore? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Cumberland Island National Seashore will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Cumberland Island National Seashore
Dining options in Cumberland Island National Seashore are quite limited and of mediocre quality. It's better not to waste too much money on meals when there are more valuable experiences to invest in. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Cumberland Island National Seashore can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $65 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$65
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Cumberland Island National Seashore is around $65 ($65) per person, with previous travelers spending from $29 to $125. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Cumberland Island National Seashore are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $20
- Lunch: $10 to $26
- Dinner: $20 to $46
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $10
There are no sources for supplies once you reach the Cumberland Island National Seashore, and so it is important to stock up on food, drinks, sunscreen, insect repellant, and comfortable clothing before you board the ferry. The only resources available are a few places to refill water bottles. The town from which the ferry leaves is called St Marys, and there are plenty of opportunities for stocking up on supplies and dining here as well. Some of the best restaurants in town, as rated on TripAdvisor, include St Marys Seafood & More, Riverside Cafe, Lang's Marina Restaurant, and The Blue Goose. Being so close to the coast, seafood makes up much of the local cuisine. Some favorites include dishes that involve shrimp, oyster, fried pickles, crab cakes, po boy, crawfish, catfish, and grits.
Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.
Pack a picnic to save cash and enjoy the views. Find a local grocery store or market, gather some fresh food, and head to a nice park or beautiful location for your meal.
Using a water bottle can save you money on drinks while being eco-friendly.
Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Cumberland Island National Seashore
The allure of Cumberland Island National Seashore is undeniable, especially since it offers beaches, hiking, romance, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Cumberland Island National Seashore typically cost an average of $23 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$23
Beyond the protected natural beauty of the island's scenery and wildlife, the place is also host to a handful of abandoned historic sites worth a visit. The Dungeness Ruins, for example, on the south side of the island are all that remain of a four-story tabby home built in 1783. The structure was rebuilt in 1884 by the Carnegies, but burned in 1959 and was left in ruins as it stands today.
Plum Orchard Mansion is much more preserved Georgian Revival mansion, built in 1898 and covering 20,000 square feet. It is about 8 miles north of the Sea Camp ferry dock, and can only be reached on foot, by bike, or on the Land & Legacies Tour via passenger van. Another 9 miles north, there is also the first African Baptist Church in the Settlement, which was established in the 1890s for African American workers. It was also the site of the 1996 wedding of John F. Kennedy, Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.
If you're looking to understand a bit of the island's history before setting out to explore, visit the Ice House Museum which showcases original artifacts and replicas from the island's prehistoric, colonial, early American, and Gilded Era histories.
Being a well-protected environment, reachable only by ferry, the Cumberland Island National Seashore is a destination for visitors to get away into the wilderness. As mentioned earlier, there are many historical points of interest that act as waypoints for those traversing the island on foot or by bike. Hiking, camping, and backpacking are some of the best ways to really experience the unique environment that the place has to offer-beaches, dunes, marshes, maritime forests, and freshwater lakes frequented by a diverse array of native wildlife.
If you prefer a more guided, less grueling exploration of the island, there is also the Land and Legacies Tour that takes visitors by passenger van to historic locations around the seashore including Plum Orchard Mansion, the Settlement (including the First African Baptist Church), Cumberland Island Wharf, and other sites along the main road. Tours are offered on days when the ferry is operating with a fee of $45.00 plus tax per person.
Beaches:
People travel to Cumberland Island National Seashore in droves to relax on the stunning beaches. 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.
Hiking:
The hiking around Cumberland Island National Seashore offers breathtaking views. 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.
Nightlife Budget in Cumberland Island National Seashore
If you're looking for nightlife, Cumberland Island National Seashore has very little to offer. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $25 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Cumberland Island National Seashore per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$25
Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.
Travel cost data last updated: May 7, 2026
Traveling in Cumberland Island National Seashore
Cumberland Island
The Cumberland Island National Seashore, located on the southern coastline of Georgia, preserves an island of beaches and dunes, marshes, and freshwater lakes. It is also home to many historic sites and structures, preserved and interpreted for visitors to explore.
Neighborhoods & Around
Sea Camp Campground is the largest and most developed place to stay on the island. Located just half a mile from the Ranger Station and Sea Camp dock on which you will arrive, this campground often fills its 16 camp sites. Sites include picnic tables, food cages, and designated fire rings with grills. There are also restrooms with running, drinkable water, as well as showers (though they are not heated). It is also a prime location for beach access on the Atlantic Ocean. Stafford Beach Campground, located a bit further north, is smaller and more primitive-though there are still restrooms and fire rings available. And then, for the real prepared adventurers, there are a few wilderness campgrounds with no amenities. These include Hickory Hill 5.5 miles north of dock in the middle of the maritime forest, Yankee Paradise 7.5 miles north of dock about one mile from the Plum Orchard Mansion, and Brickhill Bluff 10.5 miles north of dock located on a short bluff overlooking the Brickhill River.
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Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to be realistic about your travel budget when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. Although some travelers believe they can get by on a shoestring budget, most people aren't comfortable with that type of travel. Consider what you enjoy on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you like staying in resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are dining out and visiting attractions a priority? Your preferences will affect your overall budget and itinerary.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $77 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Tourists visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore generally aim to explore the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $175 per person, per day.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
If you're looking for a higher-end vacation filled with high-end amenities and exceptional service, plan for a daily expense of approximately $335. Staying at nicer hotels, savoring meals at top-rated restaurants, splurging on lavish outings, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the island means you'll need a more luxurious budget.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
