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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence? 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.

Providence

Providence is a friendly, fascinating, and active city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Providence travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Providence: 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 nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Providence, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cumberland Island National Seashore is better known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Providence is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Providence 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. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

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

Providence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's 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 Providence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Providence is a great city 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 Providence. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

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 Providence Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Providence 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 Providence has a few options to choose from. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

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 Providence Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a beach destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a hiking destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Providence 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 Providence. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

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 Providence More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for its scenery and beauty. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

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

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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for couples. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

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

Providence is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town for those who want an affordable place to stay.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence Better for Students?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Providence is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Providence is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Providence is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

While Providence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

Public transit is generally 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.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Providence

Providence is a great city for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Providence is very walkable. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Providence Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Providence 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 Providence.


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

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence?

With around the undeveloped island of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, one day is sufficent for most.

In Providence, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Providence?

With around the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Many people visit Providence 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 Providence?

Cumberland Island National Seashore, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Providence is a popular place to visit. The active city of Providence offers shopping and museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Providence. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Providence 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
    Providence Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $175
    Providence $245

The average daily cost (per person) in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $175, while the average daily cost in Providence is $245. 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 Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Providence

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Providence? 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 Providence


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: Providence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Providence $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

Also for Providence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $133
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $125
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • Providence to Boston Airport (BOS) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $40
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • Private Airport Transfer TO/FROM Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $32

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

Prices for flights to both Providence 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
    Providence $82

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

For Providence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $99
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll A Guided Italian Culinary Experience: $150
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll with Italian Dinner: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Providence $26

Tours and Activities in Providence

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

  • Providence Downtown and Brown Self Guided App GPS Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal: $46
  • Creative Capital: Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $40
  • Dark Tales: Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $35
  • Dark Tales: The Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $30
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $45
  • Haunted Boat Tours: $54
  • Haunted Boat Tours in Providence: $55
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Historic Providence Boat Tours: $45
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Providence RI: $15
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Providence $13


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



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

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 Providence in the Summer?

Both Providence 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 Providence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Providence fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Providence. 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 Providence during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Providence. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Providence 73°F (23°C)

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

Both Providence 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 shopping scene are the main draw to Providence this time of year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Providence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Providence fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Providence, 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 Providence. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 211 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in October than Providence. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Providence 53°F (12°C)

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

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Providence. In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Providence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Providence averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Providence during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Providence. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

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

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

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Providence. 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 Providence. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in April than Providence. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)


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