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

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

Cozumel

Cozumel is a lively, vibrant, and active island. Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Cozumel travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a untouched, pristine, and secluded island. Cumberland Island National Seashore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Cozumel and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both popular with visitors, Cozumel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cozumel is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

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

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

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

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

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

Cozumel 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 Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

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 Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is a great island for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Cozumel has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

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 Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Cozumel is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Cozumel is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

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

Cozumel is an amazing island 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 Cozumel a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

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

Is Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Cozumel is a very popular vacation destination. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

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 Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Cozumel 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.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

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

Cozumel is a great island for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

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 Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Cozumel is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

Is Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Cozumel is a great island 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.

Cozumel is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

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 Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

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

Cozumel is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

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

For backpackers, both Cozumel and Cumberland Island National Seashore are great places to visit.

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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 Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cozumel and Cumberland Island National Seashore both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

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 Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

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

Cozumel is very walkable. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Cozumel, 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.

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Cozumel 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.

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Cozumel is a popular place to visit. In Cozumel, 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Cozumel, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

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