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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Cruz?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Cruz? 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. Cumberland Island National Seashore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a coastal, scenic, and laid back town. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Santa Cruz travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Cruz: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Santa Cruz. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Cruz are both popular with visitors, Santa Cruz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Santa Cruz is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Santa Cruz is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its dramatic coastline, fun-filled boardwalk, and beautiful beaches. It is also home to Santa Cruz Wharf. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Santa Cruz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Santa Cruz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Local museums in town include the Surfing Museum, Seymour Marine Discovery Center, and Santa Cruz Mission.

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 Cruz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz. Sampling local seafood is a top priority for many visitors. Most restaurants have a casual vibe and serve up high quality dishes in a relaxed setting. You'll find cafes, Mexican food, and Italian eateries among other options.

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 Cruz Better for Nightlife?

Santa Cruz is a great town for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Santa Cruz has something for everybody. You'll find a range of nighttime options around town that include live entertainment, bars, clubs, and even a casino.

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 Cruz Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for its beaches. Also, Santa Cruz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

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.

Santa Cruz is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are beautiful and fun. Head to Main Beach for the most activity. This is where you'll find the town's boardwalk, which has a historic carousel and several classic amusement rides. For a more peaceful and scenic spot, check out Natural Bridges State Beach or Seacliff State Beach.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Santa Cruz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking 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 include a hike when visiting Santa Cruz. There are several great parks in the area and trails that follow along the rugged coastline or go through the impressive redwood forests.

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

Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz. Downtown Santa Cruz is where you'll find some of the best shopping.

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 Cruz More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Santa Cruz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Santa Cruz is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Santa Cruz is a great 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 Cruz is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with beaches, parks, playgrounds, and museums that kids and adults will enjoy. Highlights for many families include visiting the boardwalk, playing around at Seacliff State Beach, entertaining the kids at Seymour Center at Long Marine Lab, and taking in the beauty at Natural Bridges State Beach.

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 Cruz Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Cruz make for a high quality place to visit.

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.

Santa Cruz is a very popular place to visit for couples. Dining in downtown Santa Cruz, hiking through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and relaxing on the beach at Natural Bridges State Beach all make for a romantic getaway.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is notable for backpackers. Also, Santa Cruz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Santa Cruz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a laid back vibe that is fun to experience and there's even a hostel in town.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Cruz both offer decent 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 Santa Cruz. There are buses that travel around town.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Cruz a more walkable city?

Santa Cruz is an amazing town to visit 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 Cruz is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's considered to be one of the most walkable cities in California.

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 Cruz Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Cruz?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Santa Cruz if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Cruz?

With around the untouched 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 Santa Cruz, you'll find nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Santa Cruz?

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 Santa Cruz for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Cruz?

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.

Santa Cruz is a popular place to visit. The coastal town of Santa Cruz offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Santa Cruz?

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 Santa Cruz. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Cruz, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cruz Expensive?.

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

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 Cruz in the Summer?

Both Santa Cruz 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. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santa Cruz this time of year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Santa Cruz in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Santa Cruz fluctuates around 67°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 Cruz. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Santa Cruz receives 0.1 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Santa Cruz. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Santa Cruz for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Santa Cruz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Santa Cruz averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Santa Cruz. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Santa Cruz receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

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

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Santa Cruz. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Santa Cruz fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in January than Santa Cruz. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Santa Cruz receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Santa Cruz 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 Cruz for the beaches during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Santa Cruz in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Santa Cruz fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Santa Cruz. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Santa Cruz receives 1 inches (26 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Cruz and Cumberland Island National Seashore