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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville? 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. 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.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville is a southern, proud, and traditional university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Charlottesville is a gorgeous place to visit. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and museums. See Charlottesville travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charlottesville: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charlottesville are popular destinations, Cumberland Island National Seashore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for its beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Charlottesville attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Charlottesville and is known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. It is also well known for the Dungeness Ruins. Charlottesville is famous for being home to the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, and serving as a gateway to Shenandoah National Park.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Charlottesville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville?

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

Charlottesville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. A highlight of a trip to the area is a visit to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. The city is also famously home to the beautiful University of Virginia, which has a manicured and beautiful campus. History buffs will also appreciate visiting the Civil War Sites that are nearby as well.

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 Charlottesville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlottesville is adequate for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Charlottesville offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Head to the Historic Downtown Mall to enjoy an outdoor meal at a top rated restaurant. There are also restaurants that cater specifically to students and offer affordable and quick meals.

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 Charlottesville Better for Nightlife?

Charlottesville is a popular place for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Charlottesville has a few options to choose from. Charlottesville is a university town with an active nightlife. The best areas for nightlife are found around the Downtown Mall, Belmont neighborhood, the Corner, and University Ave west near the mall. Even though there are a number of activities to enjoy at night, this is still a small town and the nightlife scene reflects that.

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 Charlottesville Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for the beach. However, Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Charlottesville is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville Better for its Old Town?

Charlottesville is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Charlottesville is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic Downtown Mall is filled with restaurants and shops. It's a pedestrian only area with a lot of character and energy.

Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for hiking. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for the nearby hiking options.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Charlottesville is a good destination for hiking. Just outside of town there are plenty of hiking opportunities including in and around Shenandoah National Park. Hiking is at its best during the fall season when the leaves are changing.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for its shopping opportunities. However, Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Cumberland Island National Seashore can be found for those interested. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Charlottesville is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville More Beautiful?

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

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.

Charlottesville offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by the Shenandoah Mountains, this is a beautiful town and home to the beautiful University of Virginia.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville Better for Families?

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

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.

Charlottesville is a family-friendly place to visit. Wandering the campus of UVA, picking fruit at Carter Mountain Orchard or exploring the downtown mall, including the Virginia Discovery Museum are all activities that everyone can enjoy. There are also great hiking trails just outside of town.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for its romantic activities. Also, Charlottesville is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for couples.

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.

Charlottesville is a good island for couples to visit. The UVA campus is beautiful to explore, as is Monticello. The Downtown Mall has many great restaurants and activities that make for a nice date night and during the day, there's also beautiful hikes nearby that are at their peak during the fall season.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlottesville is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Charlottesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is camping an hiking in the area that is a good option for backpackers.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville Better for Students?

Charlottesville is an amazing university town to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Charlottesville. The town is home to the beautiful University of Virginia and it's a popular destination for international students as well as local students. Much of the town is focused around student life, and the city's proximity to Washington, DC means it has access to global opportunities.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charlottesville both offer reasonable 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 Charlottesville. There is a bus system that runs between campus, downtown, and several neighborhoods in Charlottesville.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Charlottesville is not known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Charlottesville is generally not very walkable. While the University of Virginia campus and the Downtown Mall are both very walkable, most of the town is not.

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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charlottesville. In our opinion, Cumberland Island National Seashore has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Charlottesville. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-3 days is enough time in Charlottesville.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Charlottesville. 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 Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville?

The pristine destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Charlottesville is a small town with plenty to do. 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 Charlottesville?

The island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people visit Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Charlottesville is a popular place to visit. Because Charlottesville is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Charlottesville?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Since Charlottesville is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charlottesville, we can see that Charlottesville 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Charlottesville Expensive?.

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

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 Charlottesville in the Summer?

Both Charlottesville and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Charlottesville because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Charlottesville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlottesville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charlottesville. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Charlottesville and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Charlottesville this time of year.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Charlottesville. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), and Charlottesville fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Charlottesville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 221 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in October than Charlottesville. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Charlottesville. Also, many travelers come to Charlottesville for the museums, the Christmas ambience, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Charlottesville. Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Charlottesville in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Charlottesville fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Charlottesville during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Charlottesville receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charlottesville. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Charlottesville. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Charlottesville in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Charlottesville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Charlottesville averages at about 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlottesville. 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 around the same amount of sunshine as Charlottesville. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlottesville receives 265 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Charlottesville. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Charlottesville receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charlottesville and Cumberland Island National Seashore