Cheapest Way To Get To Daufuskie Island
So you want to visit Daufuskie Island without emptying your wallet? I get it. This little slice of paradise off South Carolina’s coast is totally worth visiting, but getting there can be tricky since there are no bridges connecting it to the mainland.
Let me break down the cheapest ways to reach this car-free island paradise, where golf carts rule the roads and Gullah culture thrives.
Getting to Daufuskie Island (Without Breaking the Bank)
Daufuskie Island sits between Hilton Head and Savannah, completely surrounded by water. That isolation is part of its charm—and the reason you’ll need a boat to get there!
The island’s remoteness has helped preserve its unique culture and unspoiled beaches. But don’t worry, you’ve got options for crossing those waters without spending a fortune.
Your Ferry and Water Taxi Options
1. Lowcountry Ferry Service – The Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re looking for the most economical choice, the Lowcountry Ferry Service is your best bet:
- Cost: About $55 per person round trip (best value on the list!)
- Departure: Leaves from Buckingham Landing near the Hilton Head Bridge
- Duration: 30-40 minute journey each way
- Kid-friendly: Children under 5 ride FREE
- Perks: Free parking at the terminal, and they’ll transport your luggage, coolers, and even bicycles at no extra charge
- Pro tip: Book in advance! This popular option fills up quickly, especially during peak season
The Lowcountry Ferry offers both air-conditioned comfort inside and open-air seating for those wanting to spot dolphins and enjoy the coastal scenery. Keep your camera ready—wildlife sightings are common!
2. Island Head Daufuskie Ferry
Departing from Broad Creek Marina on Hilton Head Island:
- Schedule: Operates on a tide-dependent schedule (be flexible!)
- Convenience factor: They coordinate golf cart rentals, so your island transportation is ready when you arrive
- Planning required: Make reservations ahead of time to secure your spot
3. May River Excursions
If you’re coming from the Bluffton area:
- Departure: Leaves from the dock at the end of Calhoun Street in Old Town Bluffton
- Availability: Runs seven days a week during daylight hours
- Booking: Reservations are mandatory, but they’ll arrange golf cart rentals during your booking process
4. Water Taxi Options – For Flexibility Seekers
Water taxis cost more but offer customized schedules and personalized experiences:
- H2O Sports Water Taxi: Departs from Harbour Town on Hilton Head Island with optional guided tours
- Outside Hilton Head: Offers services from Shelter Cove Marina, including the “Daufuskie Island History & Artisans Tour” for those wanting to learn about the island’s rich cultural heritage
Cost Comparison Breakdown
| Transportation Option | Round Trip Cost | Departure Point |
|---|---|---|
| Lowcountry Ferry | ~$55 per person | Buckingham Landing |
| Island Head Ferry | Varies (tide-dependent) | Broad Creek Marina |
| May River Excursions | Varies (reservations required) | Old Town Bluffton |
| Water Taxis | More expensive, but customizable | Various locations |
Getting Around After You Arrive
Once you step foot on Daufuskie, you’ll need wheels—well, not car wheels, but golf cart wheels!
Golf Cart Rentals – Your Island Transportation
- Daufuskie Life: Offers both electric and gas golf carts with convenient drop-off and pick-up at your rental unit or dock
- Daufuskie Difference: Provides reliable carts allowing you to explore the island’s historic sites and natural beauty at your own pace
- Cost-saving tip: Many vacation rentals include golf carts, so check before booking separately
Golf carts aren’t just practical—they’re part of the fun island experience. There’s something magical about cruising past ancient oak trees and historic ruins with the ocean breeze in your hair.
Money-Saving Tips for Your Daufuskie Adventure
Book everything in advance – Ferry tickets and golf cart rentals are cheaper when reserved ahead of time
Look for package deals – Some companies offer discounted combos of ferry tickets and golf cart rentals
Pack your own food and drinks – Island restaurants are amazing but bringing supplies can save serious cash
Visit during shoulder season – Prices drop significantly in spring and fall (plus the weather is perfect!)
Make it a day trip – While overnight stays are wonderful, a day trip can give you a taste of the island without accommodation costs
What Makes Daufuskie Worth the Journey
Despite the extra planning required, Daufuskie Island rewards visitors with experiences you can’t find anywhere else:
- Pristine beaches with hardly any crowds
- Authentic Gullah culture preserved for generations
- Local artisans creating one-of-a-kind treasures
- Historic ruins telling stories of the island’s past
- Natural beauty largely untouched by development
The isolation that has preserved Daufuskie’s unique character is the same reason getting there requires a bit more effort. But trust me—once you’re cruising around in your golf cart, stopping at hidden beaches and chatting with friendly locals, you’ll agree it was totally worth it.
Just remember: the journey to Daufuskie isn’t just transportation—it’s the beginning of your island adventure. Keep your eyes open for dolphins, herons, and other wildlife that make the Lowcountry waterways their home. Sometimes the cheapest option (the public ferry) actually gives you the best experience!
