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

Should you visit Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Everglades National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore can help you decide which place is right for you.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a pristine, adventure-filled, and unique national park. Everglades National Park is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Everglades National Park travel costs.

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.

Everglades National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Everglades National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cumberland Island National Seashore is better known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Everglades National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions and food. Everglades National Park is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well 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.

How is Everglades National Park different from Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Everglades National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Everglades National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Everglades National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.

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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Everglades National Park is adequate for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Everglades National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Neither Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Everglades National Park There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.

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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking. 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.

Everglades National Park is a popular spot for hiking. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

Is the Shopping Better in Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Neither Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore offer decent shopping options.

Shopping in Everglades National Park can be found for those interested. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.

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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore More Beautiful?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for its scenery and beauty. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its scenery and 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.

Everglades National Park is a gorgeous place to visit. The natural beauty is impressive and it's easy to see why this is a highlight for many visitors to southern Florida.


Is Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore.

Everglades National Park offers lots of family activities. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for couples. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Everglades National Park is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.

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

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

For backpackers, both Everglades National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Everglades National Park. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

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.


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

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.

Is Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Everglades National Park
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable island. 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.

Everglades National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.

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

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

How long in Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Everglades National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Everglades National Park 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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Everglades National Park 2-3 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3

One day in Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Everglades National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

With around the undeveloped island of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, 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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Everglades National Park 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.

With around the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great 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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Everglades National Park is a popular place to visit. The adventure-filled national park of Everglades National Park offers . 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.

You'll find around the undeveloped island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Everglades National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cumberland Island National Seashore or Everglades National Park?

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

  • Everglades National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Cumberland Island National Seashore Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Everglades National Park $169
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $175

The average daily cost (per person) in Everglades National Park is $169, while the average daily cost in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $175. 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 Everglades National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Everglades National Park $80
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Everglades National Park $160
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
Compare Hotels in Everglades National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Looking for a hotel in Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore? 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 Everglades National Park


Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Everglades National Park $56
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59

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

Prices for flights to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Everglades National Park 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
    Everglades National Park $54
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Everglades National Park $28
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Everglades National Park $7.86
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25


When comparing the travel costs between Everglades National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore, 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 Everglades National Park Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.



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

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 Everglades National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Summer?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Everglades National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Everglades National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Everglades National Park in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually receives more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Everglades National Park gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's quite rainy in Everglades National Park. In July, Everglades National Park usually receives more rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Everglades National Park gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Everglades National Park 82°F (28°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C)

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Everglades National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year.

In October, Everglades National Park is generally a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 78°F (26°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Everglades National Park. In the autumn, Everglades National Park often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Everglades National Park gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 214 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually gets more rain in October than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Everglades National Park gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Everglades National Park is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Everglades National Park 78°F (26°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Everglades National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Everglades National Park this time of year.

Everglades National Park is much warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the winter. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Everglades National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Everglades National Park usually receives more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during winter. Everglades National Park gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Everglades National Park usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Everglades National Park gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Everglades National Park 67°F (19°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Everglades National Park as well as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many travelers come to Everglades National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Everglades National Park is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Everglades National Park in April average around 74°F (24°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Everglades National Park this time of the year. In the spring, Everglades National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Everglades National Park gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.

Everglades National Park usually gets more rain in April than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Everglades National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Everglades National Park 74°F (24°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park Cumberland Island National Seashore
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)


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