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

Should you visit Cancun 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 Cancun and Cumberland Island National Seashore can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a party-hard, tropical, and active city. Cancun is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Cancun travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. The beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Cancun and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations, Cancun has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cancun is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors for its hiking. Cancun is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also well known for . Cumberland Island National Seashore is famous for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.



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

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

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Cancun offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater 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 Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun 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 Cancun. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

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 Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Cancun has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

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 Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cancun is a great choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.


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

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cancun a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

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

Is Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun and Cumberland Island National Seashore are world-class choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Cancun is a very popular vacation destination. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

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.

Is Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.


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

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun 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 Cancun. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

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 Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore More Beautiful?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun and Cumberland Island National Seashore are somewhat similar when it comes to the great scenery.

The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Is Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun is an amazing city to visit 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cancun is a very family-friendly destination. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

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 Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Cancun makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

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

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both great destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cancun. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cancun 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 Cancun offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

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 Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Cancun
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Cancun is very walkable. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

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 Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cancun and Cumberland Island National Seashore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun 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 Cancun.


  • How many days in Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cancun 4-7 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3

One day in Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Cancun, 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Cancun 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cancun is a popular place to visit. In Cancun, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cancun or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Cancun, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the pristine destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


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

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cancun Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Cumberland Island National Seashore Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cancun $153
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $175

The average daily cost (per person) in Cancun is $153, while the average daily cost in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $175. 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 Cancun and Cumberland Island National Seashore in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Cancun 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 Cancun


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: Cancun Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cancun $16
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cancun

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Cancun:


  • Taxi Around Town
    $1.52
  • Airport Shuttle (for 2)
    $13
  • Ferry to Isla de Mujeres (for 2)
    $15
  • Local Bus (for 2)
    $1.85

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cancun

Also for Cancun, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Limo Transfer Airport Cancun - Puerto Morelos Hotel Zone: $279
  • Cancun Airport Private Transfer to Tulum (Round Trip): $250
  • Private Transfer from Cancún Airport (CUN) to Tulum : $243
  • Xcaret 1 Day Tour from Cancun with Hotel Transfer: $228
  • Cancun Airport Private Transfer One Way: To or From Akumal Area Up to 15 Pass.: $225
  • Private Transfer from Cancun Airport to Tulum: $220
  • Round private transfer Airport- Akumal - Airport.: $220
  • Private Round Trip Transfer (Cancun Airport - Playa del Carmen): $219
  • Airport Transfers to Costa Mujeres - Private van (ROUND TRIP) FLAT RATE: $215
  • Cancún Airport (CUN) to Akumal - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $214
  • Cancún Airport (CUN) to El Dorado Maroma - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212
  • Private round airport transfer from Cancun - Puerto Aventuras - airport.: $210

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

Prices for flights to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Cancun 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
    Cancun $45
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $65
Typical Food Prices in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    $19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cancun

For Cancun, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cancun Pirate Ship Adventure : Dinner & Show at Sea 2 for 1 Deal: $50
  • Pirate Show in Cancun! Dinner & drinks: $62
  • Cancun Street Food Tour with Food Stalls, Local Market and Murals: $64
  • Pirate Shop & Dinner at Cancun! Drinks, Adventure and Fun: $65
  • Cancun Walking Food Tour: Local Food, Markets, and Street Art.: $77
  • Puerto Morelos Walking Food Tour: $77
  • Mexican Cooking Class with fresh Local Market ingredients selection and transpor: $79
  • Cancun Taco & Mexican Food Tour with Tequila Tasting: $79
  • Cancun Private Mural Art and Food Tour: $81
  • Hands-On Cooking Class in Drink & Cook Authentic Dishes: $85
  • Pirate’s Night Out: Dinner and Entertainment in the Caribbean: $89
  • Unforgettable Pirate Dinner Adventure in the Mexican Caribbean: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cancun $32
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cancun

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Cancun's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Seasick Pills
    $0.54
  • Whale Shark Tour (for 2)
    $92

Tours and Activities in Cancun

For Cancun, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Day Combo Tour, Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor and Chichen Itza Option: $260
  • 3 in 1 Tour to Coba Cenote and Maya Village: $149
  • Atv tour from Cancun with ziplines and cenote swim experience: $30
  • Cancun Private Street Art Tour: $65
  • Clear Boat Tour in Cancun 1.5 hours great for pictures: $19
  • Coco Bongo Music And Show Ticket: $90
  • Holbox plus Island Magic by boat Tour from Cancun : $144
  • Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres Tour from Cancun: $152
  • Isla Mujeres Catamaran Platinum Tour with Open Bar: $115
  • LDS Tour to Chichen Itza + Cenote : $215
  • Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos Day Tour from Cancun: $105
  • Private Tour to Tulum Ruins and Cenotes : $257

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cancun $12
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Cancun

Also in Cancun, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Social Pub Crawl in Cancun: $35
  • Bar Crawl Madness Tour in Cancun: $99


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