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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor? 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a pristine, secluded, and undeveloped island. With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Bangor

Bangor is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Bangor travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bangor: Pros and Cons

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

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

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bangor and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

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

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

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

Bangor 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 Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

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

Bangor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.

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

Bangor 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 Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Bangor is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers lots of family activities. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Bangor is a family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

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.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular island 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.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

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

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

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 generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bangor are notable when it comes to walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is somewhat walkable. 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.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Bangor 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor?

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.

In Bangor, you'll find food 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.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor?

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.

Many people visit Bangor 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.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor?

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.

Bangor is a popular place to visit. The laid back town of Bangor offers museums and food. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the untouched 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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Bangor. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bangor, we can see that Bangor 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 Bangor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bangor 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Bangor Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Bangor in the Summer?

Both Bangor and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Bangor. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Bangor. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bangor because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Bangor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Bangor fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Bangor. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Bangor. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bangor this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bangor in the winter. In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Bangor averages at about 18°F (-8°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in January than Bangor. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Bangor and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bangor for the small town charm.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Bangor. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bangor and Cumberland Island National Seashore