Only accessible by boat or ferry? Sign me up! Daufuskie Island is that hidden gem off South Carolina’s coast where you’ll find zero traffic lights, hardly any cars, and a seriously refreshing break from the usual tourist traps.

If you’ve never heard of this place, picture this: a tiny island (just 5 miles long) where locals get around on golf carts, the beaches are pristine and uncrowded, and you can immerse yourself in authentic Gullah culture that’s been preserved for generations.

I’m going to walk you through exactly how to plan the perfect day trip to Daufuskie, from catching the ferry to exploring historic sites to finding the best local seafood. Let’s make it happen!

Your Ultimate Daufuskie Island Day Trip Guide

Getting There: Your Ferry Options

Since there are no bridges connecting Daufuskie to the mainland, part of the adventure is getting there. The boat ride across is actually a highlight—you’ll likely spot dolphins playing in the wake and get stunning views of coastal marshlands.

Your main options include:

• Lowcountry Ferry Service: Departs from Buckingham Landing near Hilton Head Bridge, taking 30-40 minutes with both indoor and outdoor seating. This is probably your most reliable option with regular departures throughout the day.

• Island Head Ferry: Leaves from Broad Creek Marina on Hilton Head and arrives at Freeport Marina on Daufuskie. Pro tip: they can coordinate your golf cart rental so it’s waiting when you arrive.

• May River Excursions: Departing from Bluffton’s Old Town dock, this option requires reservations but offers a slightly different perspective of the waterways.

• Private water taxis: Services like H2O Sports Water Taxi give you more flexibility with departure times but cost a bit more.

Most ferries run multiple times daily (typically 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM), making it easy to customize your day trip length.

Getting Around: Golf Cart Nation

Once you arrive on Daufuskie, you’ll notice something immediately—almost nobody drives cars here. Golf carts are the preferred transportation, and honestly, it adds to the charm. They’re perfect for the island’s quiet roads and natural beauty.

You’ll want to reserve your golf cart in advance, especially during peak season. Most ferry services can coordinate this for you, so your ride is ready when you step off the boat. Nothing kills the island vibe faster than being stranded at the dock!

The golf carts typically cost between $65-90 for a day rental, depending on the season and cart size.

Sample Day Itinerary: Making the Most of Daufuskie

Morning: History & Culture Immersion

7:30 AM: Catch the early ferry from Hilton Head (Buckingham Landing). Pro tip: sit on the outdoor deck and keep your camera ready for dolphin sightings!

8:30 AM: Arrive at Daufuskie and pick up your golf cart. Grab a coffee at School Grounds Coffee to fuel up for your adventure day.

9:00 AM: Visit the Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation Museum. This place is small but packed with fascinating exhibits about the island’s unique Gullah heritage and history. You’ll learn how the islanders lived for generations in relative isolation, developing their own distinct culture and dialect.

10:30 AM: Explore the Robert F. Kennedy Historic Trail, which is a self-guided tour covering major historical sites. Highlights include:

• Billie Burn Museum
• Gullah Learning Center
• Tabby ruins (historic concrete made from oyster shells)
• Old cemeteries dating back to the 1700s
• Remnants of the logging railroad

This trail gives you an incredible glimpse into the island’s past and the resilience of its Gullah inhabitants.

Afternoon: Food & Relaxation

12:30 PM: Lunch at the Old Daufuskie Crab Company. You absolutely must try their signature Daufuskie Deviled Crab. The restaurant sits right on the water with amazing views, and the laid-back atmosphere perfectly captures the island’s vibe.

2:00 PM: Head to Melrose Beach for some relaxation time. Unlike the crowded beaches of Hilton Head, here you’ll find pristine stretches of sand where you might be the only people around. Perfect for a post-lunch nap or shell collecting walk.

3:30 PM: Visit the Iron Fish Gallery, where artist Chase Allen creates incredible metal sculptures inspired by coastal life. His workshop is a must-see and represents the artistic spirit that thrives on Daufuskie. You’ll find unique souvenirs here that you won’t see anywhere else.

Evening: Scenic Views & Dinner

4:30 PM: Make your way to the Bloody Point Lighthouse and Museum on the southern tip of the island. This isn’t your typical tall lighthouse—it’s a unique cottage-style building with a fascinating maritime history and gorgeous ocean views.

5:30 PM: Early dinner at Lucy Bell’s, a charming spot serving up authentic Lowcountry cuisine. The restaurant is actually in a converted home, giving you that “eating at a local’s place” feel. Try their shrimp and grits if it’s on the menu!

6:45 PM: Return your golf cart and board the ferry back to Hilton Head Island, arriving around 7:30-8:00 PM with sunset views on your return journey.

Pro Tips for Your Daufuskie Adventure

• Book everything in advance: Especially in summer months, ferries and golf carts can sell out quickly.

• Pack strategically: Bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, water, and a camera. There are limited places to buy supplies on the island.

• Embrace the unplugged life: Cell service can be spotty, making this the perfect opportunity for a digital detox. Download offline maps before you go!

• Weather considerations: The boat crossing can be choppy in windy conditions, so check the forecast and consider taking motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness.

• Respect the island: Daufuskie residents treasure their quiet lifestyle. Keep noise down, don’t litter, and stay on public roads/beaches unless invited elsewhere.

Why Daufuskie Island Is Worth Your Time

What makes Daufuskie special is precisely what it doesn’t have: no crowds, no chain stores, no traffic lights, no hustle and bustle.

Instead, you get authentic Gullah culture, historic sites that feel frozen in time, and natural beauty that hasn’t been overdeveloped. It’s the anti-resort, offering a genuine connection to both history and nature that’s increasingly rare in our commercialized world.

For me, Daufuskie represents the perfect day trip—just enough time to escape the mainland madness and experience something truly different, but you’ll be back in time for your evening plans (or with plenty of stories to tell over dinner).

So next time you’re in the Hilton Head/Bluffton area and looking for something beyond the typical beach day or golf round, hop on that ferry. Daufuskie Island will show you a side of the Lowcountry you won’t soon forget!