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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton? 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. With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a quaint, compact, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Moncton travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

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

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

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

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian 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 Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Moncton 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 Moncton. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

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 Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

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

Moncton doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

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 Moncton Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a beach destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Moncton is not a hiking destination.

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.

Moncton is not a hiking destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Moncton 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 Moncton. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

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 Moncton More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

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

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.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.


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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Moncton 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 Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Moncton

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Moncton 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.

Moncton is a somewhat walkable place. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Moncton 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 Moncton.

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

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


  • How many days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Moncton 1-2

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton?

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.

In Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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.

Many people visit Moncton 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 Moncton?

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.

Moncton is a popular place to visit. The compact city of Moncton 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 Moncton?

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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Moncton. 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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cumberland Island National Seashore Prices
    USA Prices
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $175
    Moncton $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $175, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $146. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore


Hotels in Moncton


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Moncton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Moncton -

Is it cheaper to fly into Cumberland Island National Seashore or Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton and Cumberland Island National Seashore change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $65
    Moncton $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Moncton $79

Tours and Activities in Moncton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moncton.

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Moncton $4.54


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

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 Moncton Expensive?.



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

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 Moncton in the Summer?

Both Moncton 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 Moncton because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Moncton. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

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

Both Moncton 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. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Moncton this time of year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Moncton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in October than Moncton. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Moncton. Furthermore, many travelers come to Moncton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Moncton. In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Moncton averages at about -8°C (17°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Moncton. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Moncton. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Moncton can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in April than Moncton. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)


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