3 minute read
Daufuskie Island for the Day
ON ISLAND TIME
Daufuskie Island transports travelers to a simpler time.
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By Laura Lee
Daufuskie Island is just a few miles from Hilton Head Island, but nestled between river marshes and the Calibogue Sound, it feels a world away. You can only access the island by boat; step off the ferry or water taxi, and you’ll find yourself in another place, in another time.
Here, there’s plenty to see and do — and it’s all within walking distance. Explore historic churches, a haunted lighthouse and whimsical art galleries, Lowcountry restaurants and a rum distillery. Cars are restricted, so lace up your walking shoes, rent a golf cart or bike and set out on a day of discovery.
YOUR Daufuskie
ITINERARY
Today, 400 locals live on the island. Adventurous visitors can make the journey over for a day trip or an overnight getaway to immerse themselves in the island’s rich history, artsy vibe, pristine beaches and small community feel.
Haig Point Lighthouse
• Stroll through the vineyards and enjoy a tasting at Silver Dew
Winery, South Carolina’s first winery, founded in 1883. • Book a vacation package with Haig Point to spend the night in the beautiful Strachan Mansion or Haig Point Lighthouse, built in 1872 and said to be haunted. • Savor the shrimp and grits at Old Daufuskie Crab Co., some of the best in Lowcountry.
The Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation Museum Complex • Get a real-life history lesson at The Daufuskie Island
Historical Foundation Museum Complex, complete with an old Gullah Bible and Native American artifacts. • Grab a mid-morning treat at School Grounds Coffee inside the one-room schoolhouse featured in Pat Conroy’s memoir The Water Is Wide. • Rent a golf cart through H2O Sports or Tour Daufuskie and explore the island’s sandy streets, unspoiled beaches and maritime forests.
• Visit Bloody Point Lighthouse
Museum at the southern tip of the island and see how indigo, Sea Island Cotton and Carolina Gold rice are planted.
• Shop handcrafted local sculptures by acclaimed artist Chase Allen at The Iron Fish Gallery, featured in Southern Living and The Wall Street Journal.
• Sample a variety of rums and spirits at Daufuskie Island
Distillery.
• Score a limited guest pass at Rees Jones’ Top 100
Signature Calibogue Course at Haig Point, an exclusive island golf community. • Dine on delicious seafood, sip a signature cocktail and dance to live music on weekends at Freeport Marina’s Old
Daufuskie Crab Company.
• Book a charming oceanfront cottage, complete with your own golf cart, through Daufuskie Island Rental.
Daufuskie Island Distillery
GETTING THERE
These boating services run from Hilton Head Island and Bluffton to Daufuskie Island.
Daufuskie Island Ferry Service — The 45-minute ferry makes several trips every day of the year, rain or shine. Depart from Buckingham Landing on the mainland and arrive at Melrose Landing. Pets and bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply. daufuskieislandferry.com Daufuskie Difference — Take a one-hour ride on the island’s original ferry. Depart from Broad Creek Marina and arrive at Freeport Marina. Pets and bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply. daufuskiedifference.com H2O Sports — This 20-minute water taxi is the quickest service to the island, departing from Harbour Town Marina to their private dock or to Freeport Marina. h2osports.com May River Excursions — Take a 25-minute public water taxi from the Bluffton Calhoun Street Dock to the Beaufort County Public Dock. Daytime service only. Pets and bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply. mayriverexcursions.com Outside Hilton Head — Take a four-hour guided history tour to the island, by reservation only. Departs from Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina. outsidehiltonhead.com
A FRESH PERSPECTIVE Daufuskie visitors share their favorite island pics.
@johnnyfyve Daufuskie Island, SC
Leaving Daufuskie, but I’ll be back!!! #daufuskieisland #islandlife #livemusic
@milkavujnovic1 Daufuskie Landing, SC
Felt like we stepped back 100 years ago.
@boglephoto Daufuskie Island, SC
Dolphins on the return trip from Daufuskie Island today. Great time.
