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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a pristine, secluded, and undeveloped island. With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a affluent, scenic, and stunning coastal town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Many visitors also come to Santa Barbara because of it's amazing beauty. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santa Barbara than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santa Barbara is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. Also, Santa Barbara is famous for The Old Mission Santa Barbara. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Santa Barbara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

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 Santa Barbara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Santa Barbara. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

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 Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara has a few options to choose from. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

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 Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Santa Barbara is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Barbara are first-rate choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

With world-famous beaches, Santa Barbara is a very popular vacation destination. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

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

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

Santa Barbara is a good destination for visiting its old town. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

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

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Barbara both have first-rate trails.

People visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many people visit Santa Barbara specifically for its hiking. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Santa Barbara. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

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 Santa Barbara More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Santa Barbara because of it's amazing beauty. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

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.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara Better for Families?

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Santa Barbara is a very family-friendly destination. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for romance. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Santa Barbara makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Santa Barbara is a very popular coastal town for students and younger travelers. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

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 Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Santa Barbara is very walkable. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored 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 Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Barbara. In our opinion, Santa Barbara has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Santa Barbara, you'll find nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many people visit Santa Barbara for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Santa Barbara?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the untouched destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Santa Barbara is a popular place to visit. The opulent coastal town of Santa Barbara offers shopping and museums. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara?

You'll find around the beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santa Barbara. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Santa Barbara, we can see that Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara Expensive?.

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Barbara in the Summer?

Both Santa Barbara and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santa Barbara this time of year.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Santa Barbara. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Barbara. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Barbara for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Santa Barbara. Also, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Santa Barbara. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Santa Barbara. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santa Barbara and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Santa Barbara for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and Cumberland Island National Seashore