A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Carmel-by-the-Sea for Beaches, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea? 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Carmel-by-the-Sea is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for Pebble Beach Golf Course. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Carmel-by-the-Sea. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is adequate for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Carmel-by-the-Sea doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the beach. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

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.

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for it's beautiful beaches. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Carmel-by-the-Sea both are comparable with their excellent 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.

The beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a island with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Carmel-by-the-Sea make for a excellent place to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very walkable. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Carmel-by-the-Sea. In our opinion, Carmel-by-the-Sea has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Cumberland Island National Seashore. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With around the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With around the untouched island of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place to visit. Because Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Since Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore is more expensive. And not only is Carmel-by-the-Sea much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Summer?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 63°F (17°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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in January than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Spring?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Carmel-by-the-Sea and Cumberland Island National Seashore