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

Should you visit Washington 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 Washington and Cumberland Island National Seashore can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Washington travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a untouched, pristine, and secluded island. Cumberland Island National Seashore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Washington and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both popular with visitors, Washington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Washington is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches and hiking. Washington is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

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

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for theatre. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Washington has something for everybody. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for live music. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Washington is active and vibrant. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination 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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

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

Washington 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 Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore More Beautiful?

Washington and Cumberland Island National Seashore both are comparable with their great scenery and beauty.

Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

The beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Is Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Washington is a great city 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.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Both Washington and Cumberland Island National Seashore are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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

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

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Students?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Washington is an amazing city 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.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

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

How long in Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

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

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

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

One day in Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 secluded 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.

A weekend in Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Washington for a weekend. 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.

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.

Five days in Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Washington is a popular place to visit. Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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.

A week in Washington or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This is a popular place to visit for one week. 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Washington 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, 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.

Washington is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 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 Washington. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Washington gets 278 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. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year.

In the autumn, Washington is cooler than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Washington often gets less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 214 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Cumberland Island National Seashore. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. In January, Washington is generally much colder than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Washington is cooler than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 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 Washington this time of the year. In the spring, Washington often gets less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cumberland Island National Seashore and Washington