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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii? 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 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.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled island. Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Big Island of Hawaii travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Big Island of Hawaii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Big Island of Hawaii are both popular with visitors, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also home to the Waipio Valley Overlook. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Big Island of Hawaii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii?

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

Big Island of Hawaii is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

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 Big Island of Hawaii Better for Nightlife?

Big Island of Hawaii is adequate for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Big Island of Hawaii doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

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 Big Island of Hawaii Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Big Island of Hawaii is a great choice. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

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

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Big Island of Hawaii are fantastic choices.

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.

With world-famous beaches, Big Island of Hawaii is a very popular vacation destination. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore and Big Island of Hawaii both have fantastic trails.

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.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii specifically for its hiking. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

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 Big Island of Hawaii More Beautiful?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Big Island of Hawaii because of it's amazing beauty. Kilauea is the dramatic volcano that often offers a show to visitors. The island also has spectacular viewpoints like Waipi'o Valley Lookout, dramatic waterfalls, and picturesque bays.

The beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island 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, Big Island of Hawaii is a very family-friendly destination. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Couples?

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

Big Island of Hawaii makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities 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.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Big Island of Hawaii are very good places to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island to visit for backpackers. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Big Island of Hawaii both offer decent 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 Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of 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.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable island. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

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

Should I spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Big Island of Hawaii both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Big Island of Hawaii than Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 5-14 days is enough time in Big Island of Hawaii.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer.

In Big Island of Hawaii, 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.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Big Island of Hawaii for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

Many people visit Cumberland Island National Seashore for five days. You'll find around the beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place to visit. In Big Island of Hawaii, 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.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

The secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Big Island of Hawaii, you'll find museums and food. 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.

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 Big Island of Hawaii, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Big Island of Hawaii 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 Big Island of Hawaii Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii?

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii in the Summer?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Big Island of Hawaii in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii in the Autumn?

Both Big Island of Hawaii and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Big Island of Hawaii averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 138 hours of full sun.

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in October than Big Island of Hawaii. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Big Island of Hawaii. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Island of Hawaii because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much colder than Big Island of Hawaii. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Big Island of Hawaii. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Big Island of Hawaii in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Big Island of Hawaii. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is cooler than Big Island of Hawaii in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Big Island of Hawaii fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Big Island of Hawaii. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in April than Big Island of Hawaii. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Big Island of Hawaii receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Island of Hawaii and Cumberland Island National Seashore