A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Cumberland Island National Seashore for Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a cultural, historical, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Guadalajara 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.

Guadalajara and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Guadalajara than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Guadalajara is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Guadalajara is well known for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals. Also, Guadalajara is famous for the Guadalajara Cathedral. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Guadalajara 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 Guadalajara. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Guadalajara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It's a city that's filled with culture and history, with many impressive landmarks such as the Guadalajara Cathedral. Also make sure you visit the Instituto Cultural de Cabañas, Expiatory Temple, the Government Palace, and the Regional Museum of Guadalajara.

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

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Guadalajara is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Guadalajara. The cuisine uses some key ingredients such as corn tortillas, chilis, and beans. You'll find a lot of street food which includes tacos and tortas as well as restaurant dishes like birria (meat stew), pozole (hominy soup), and fish ceviche.

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 Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Guadalajara is a great city for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Guadalajara has something for everybody. The city comes to life at night. You'll find vibrant dance clubs, live music, and traditional bars. The craft beer scene has also grown in recent years. The most active areas are around Chapultepec Avenue and Zapopan.

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 Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Guadalajara 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.

Guadalajara is not a beach destination.


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

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Guadalajara is a great city for its historic old town. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Guadalajara. The city center is filled with Spanish colonial architecture. With a walking tour you will find baroque, neoclassical, renaissance, and Gothic style buildings that highlight the city's long running past and rich history.

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

Is Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Guadalajara 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.

Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

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

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Guadalajara is a great city for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Guadalajara. One of the best shopping streets is Avenida Juarez. A must-see stop is also the large indoor market of Mercado Libertad. You'll also find shopping centers and retail outlets around town.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.


Is Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore More Beautiful?

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Guadalajara is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Guadalajara is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Guadalajara is not the most family-friendly destination. While it's not the most popular destination for families, those who visit will enjoy exploring the nature parks or amusement parks.

Is Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for couples. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

Guadalajara is a nice destination for couples. It's filled with nice architecture, a vibrant nightlife scene, and great urban parks, making it a nice and romantic destination for couples.


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

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

For backpackers, both Guadalajara and Cumberland Island National Seashore are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Guadalajara. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels around town.

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

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Guadalajara and Cumberland Island National Seashore both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Guadalajara. There's a bus system as well as a metro system with two lines, which are primarily used by commuters.

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 Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Guadalajara is very walkable. The city center is pedestrian-friendly. This is also where you'll find most of the sights.

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 Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

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

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


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

One day in Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Guadalajara, you'll find nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the pristine island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Guadalajara for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the pristine destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Guadalajara is a popular place to visit. The cultural city of Guadalajara offers shopping and museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The undeveloped island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Guadalajara or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Guadalajara. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Cumberland Island National Seashore or Guadalajara?

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

  • Guadalajara Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Cumberland Island National Seashore Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Guadalajara $138
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $175

The average daily cost (per person) in Guadalajara is $138, 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 Guadalajara and Cumberland Island National Seashore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $38
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $76
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara 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 Guadalajara


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Guadalajara Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Guadalajara $35
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Guadalajara

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

  • Guadalajara Airport Private Transfer to Ajijic & Chapala: $289
  • Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Tequila - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $202
  • Guadalajara to Tequila - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $179
  • Tequila to Guadalajara - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $179
  • Private Airport Transfer to Guadalajara Hotels Safe & Stress-Free: $159
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $107
  • Tequila to Guadalajara Airport (GDL) - Departure Private Transfer: $101
  • Transfer from International Airport to Tequila Jalisco: $89
  • Transfer by car to or from Guadalajara Airport: $35

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

Prices for flights to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Guadalajara 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
    Guadalajara $75
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $65

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Guadalajara

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

  • Private Street Food Tour and City Tour Guadalajara - Best Rated : $44
  • Guadalajara Private Food Tour: $70
  • Authentic Mexican Cooking & Tequila tasting experience-Casa Humo: $108
  • Mexican Cooking Classes and Market Visit in Guadalajara: $195
  • VIP Tequila Night Tour with Dinner and Tasting: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Guadalajara $25
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23

Tours and Activities in Guadalajara

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

  • Walking Tour Experience in Ajijic Mexico: $50
  • 3 Hours Private Tour Guide in Guadalajara, you choose!: $36
  • A unique tour! Visiting Hacienda Casa herradura From Guadalajara: $120
  • Architecture of Luis Barragan Walking Tour with Street Food: $70
  • Bar Tour of the Coolest Quarter of Guadalajara: $17
  • Cantaritos and Tequila Factory Tour: $89
  • Chapala Ajijic Area Tour from Guadalajara: $40
  • Chapala Lake & Ajijic Tour with "Tres Potrillos Ranch": $65
  • Chapala and Ajijic Private Full-Day Tour: $128
  • Charreria heritage tour be a charro for a day: $50
  • City Tour Downtown Guadalajara Historical and Cultural Walking Tour: $79
  • City tour in Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $16
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Guadalajara

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Guadalajara:

  • Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Guadalajara Mexico: $25
  • Tequila distillery experience, Jose Cuervo & Tequila Magic Town: $65
  • full day Tequila tour visiting artisanal distillery and downtown.: $95
  • Guided Tour of Guachimontones and Tequila Distillery: $105
  • Full-Day Tour to La Fortaleza Distillery and Cantaritos: $155
  • Private Adventure Day Tour to Tequila and Cazcanes Distillery: $156
  • Private Adventure to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila: $161
  • Private One Day Adventure Tour in Tequila and La Fortaleza Distillery: $167
  • Private Tour Cascahuin Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour one day in Guachimontones and La Fortaleza Distillery: $211
  • Guachimontones and Tequila Distillery in One Day: $264


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Guadalajara and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore is more expensive. And not only is Guadalajara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Guadalajara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Guadalajara 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cumberland Island National Seashore than you might in Guadalajara.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Guadalajara Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.


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