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

Should you visit Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Cumberland Island National Seashore can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxed island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo 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.

Key Largo and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cumberland Island National Seashore is better known for its museums and attractions, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. 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 Key Largo 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 Key Largo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

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

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

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 Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Key Largo is adequate for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

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 Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Key Largo is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Key Largo is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.


Is Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Key Largo is a great island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

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

Is Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Key Largo offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Is Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Around Cumberland Island National Seashore visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is mediocre for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Cumberland Island National Seashore can be found for those interested. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore More Beautiful?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Key Largo 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.

Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Key Largo is an amazing island to visit 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Key Largo is a very family-friendly destination. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

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 Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

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

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination 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 Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.


Is Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a island with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination 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.

Key Largo is not a walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

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

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

How long in Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key Largo and Cumberland Island National Seashore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Key Largo. 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 Key Largo 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 Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3

One day in Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Key Largo, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

You'll find around the island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Key Largo for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find around the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Key Largo is a popular place to visit. In Key Largo, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the undeveloped island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

In Key Largo, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling. This is a popular place to visit for one week. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Cumberland Island National Seashore or Key Largo?

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

  • Key Largo Prices
    USA Prices
    Cumberland Island National Seashore Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key Largo $256
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $175

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $256, 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 Key Largo and Cumberland Island National Seashore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo 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 Key Largo


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

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

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

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

Prices for flights to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $104
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • Cruisin' Tikis Key Largo - Sunset Cruise: $99
  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Driving Tour (7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Guided Tour Explore Key Largo on Jet Ski : $200
  • Half-Day Florida Keys Catamaran Snorkel Adventure: $79
  • Historic Carysfort Lighthouse Snorkeling Tour: $75
  • Jet Ski Eco Tour through Key Largo: $195
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Jetski Tour for 2 : $214
  • Key Largo Snorkel Tour, Two Locations - Equipment Included!: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key Largo and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Key Largo is more expensive. And not only is Cumberland Island National Seashore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cumberland Island National Seashore and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Key Largo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key Largo than you might in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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



When is the best time to visit Key Largo 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 Key Largo or Cumberland Island National Seashore in the Summer?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key Largo is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo 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 Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Key Largo 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 Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Key Largo 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
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C)

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Key Largo is generally a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Key Largo 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 Key Largo. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Key Largo 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 Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Key Largo 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.


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

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the cuisine during these months.

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

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

In January, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Key Largo 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
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Cumberland Island National Seashore. The spring months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the beaches. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year.

In the spring, Key Largo is a little warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key Largo 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 Key Largo this time of the year. In the spring, Key Largo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets more rain in April than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Key Largo 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.


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

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Key Largo

Key Largo 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)