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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Sacramento?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Sacramento? 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 secluded, undeveloped, and untouched 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.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a laid back, relaxed, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sacramento travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Sacramento: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Sacramento 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, and impressive beauty, while Sacramento attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Sacramento 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. Sacramento is famous for its history and state capital.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Sacramento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Sacramento is a great city for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Sacramento offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile 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 Sacramento? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Sacramento 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 Sacramento. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

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 Sacramento Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Sacramento 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 Sacramento has a few options to choose from. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

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 Sacramento Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for the beach. However, Sacramento is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in 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.

Sacramento is not a beach destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Sacramento Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Sacramento is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Sacramento is not a hiking destination.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Sacramento 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 Sacramento. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

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 Sacramento More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Sacramento is not a destination known for its 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.

Sacramento is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Sacramento Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

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

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.

Sacramento is a family-friendly place to visit. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Sacramento Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options 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.

Sacramento is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although most backpackers skip this town for more popular destinations, there are a couple of hostels in town.


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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Sacramento 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 Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Sacramento

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options 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.

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.

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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Sacramento?

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Sacramento. 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 Sacramento 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 Sacramento? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Sacramento 1-2

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Sacramento?

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 Sacramento, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Sacramento?

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 Sacramento 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 Sacramento?

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.

Sacramento is a popular place to visit. The undiscovered city of Sacramento 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 Sacramento?

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 Sacramento. 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, Sacramento 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
    Sacramento Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $175
    Sacramento $320

The average daily cost (per person) in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $175, while the average daily cost in Sacramento is $320. 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 Sacramento in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Sacramento $111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Sacramento $222
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Sacramento

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


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: Sacramento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Sacramento $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sacramento

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

  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $294
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $294
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Sacramento hotel/address- RoundTrip Private Transfer: $186
  • Sacramento City to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Sacramento Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $74

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

Prices for flights to both Sacramento 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
    Sacramento $92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sacramento

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

  • Chinese Wonton Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour: $98
  • Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour: $98
  • Thai Cooking Class in Southeastern Sacramento (4-Course Menu): $108
  • Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $115
  • Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Discover Midtown - Delicious Walking Food Tour: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Sacramento $19

Tours and Activities in Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 60 Minute Adventures - The Escape Game at The Galleria: $42
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Auburn to Placerville: $15
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $15
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $15
  • City Cruises Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise 21+: $49
  • Davis Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Downtown Sacramento Mural and Art Walking Tour : $45
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Folsom Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Granite Adventure at Quarry Park Adventures Rocklin, CA: $59
  • Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Sacramento $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Sacramento

Also in Sacramento, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Apple Hill Wine Tasting Tours And Placerville wine tasting tours: $169
  • Old Vine Express Train Ride with Wine Tasting: $174


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



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

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 Sacramento in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Sacramento. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Sacramento in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Sacramento averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sacramento this time of the year. In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less sunshine than Sacramento during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cumberland Island National Seashore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Sacramento. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Sacramento 76°F (24°C)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Sacramento. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Sacramento for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sacramento. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets less sunshine than Sacramento. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 300 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in October than Sacramento. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Sacramento 64°F (18°C)

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

Both Sacramento and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Sacramento because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Sacramento in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Sacramento fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Sacramento during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Sacramento. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Sacramento 45°F (7°C)

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

Both Sacramento and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Sacramento averages at about 58°F (15°C).

In Sacramento, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets less sunshine than Sacramento. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 328 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in April than Sacramento. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Sacramento 58°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Sacramento and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Sacramento
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 75°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)