There’s something magical about a place you can only reach by water.

Daufuskie Island sits between Hilton Head and Savannah, Georgia – a secluded sea island paradise with no bridges connecting to the mainland. This means planning your transportation requires a bit more thought than your typical vacation, but that’s part of what makes it special.

Let me walk you through everything you need to know about getting to and around this hidden gem. Skip the car rental – you’ll be trading it for a golf cart and some of the most beautiful ferry rides you’ll ever take.

How to Get to Daufuskie Island (And Why The Journey Is Half The Fun)

Your Water Transportation Options

Getting to Daufuskie isn’t just necessary – it’s an experience. The boat ride offers incredible views of dolphins, seabirds, and gorgeous marshland vistas. Think of it as your first island activity rather than just transportation.

1. Lowcountry Ferry Service

This is your most reliable option, having resumed operations in early 2025.

• Departure Point: Buckingham Landing near the Hilton Head Bridge (Bluffton side)
• Duration: About 30-40 minutes each way
• What to expect: Climate-controlled cabin with outdoor deck space for wildlife viewing
• Perks: Carries your luggage, bags, coolers, and even bicycles at no extra charge
• Kid-friendly bonus: Children under 5 ride free
• Pro tip: Make reservations online in advance – this thing fills up fast!

The best part? Free parking at the ferry terminal, and the ferry runs on a reliable schedule regardless of weather (except those rare icy days we saw in early 2025).

2. Island Head Daufuskie Ferry

Another popular option departing from Broad Creek Marina on Hilton Head and arriving at Freeport Marina.

• Important to know: This ferry runs on a tide-dependent schedule, so be flexible
• Super convenient: They coordinate golf cart rentals so your ride is waiting when you arrive
• Must-do: Make reservations by phone or online – don’t just show up!

3. May River Excursions (For Bluffton Folks)

If you’re coming from Bluffton, this is your go-to option.

• Departure point: The dock at the end of Calhoun Street in Old Town Bluffton
• Availability: Runs seven days a week during daylight hours
• Requirements: Reservations are mandatory (seriously, don’t skip this step)
• Bonus: They can arrange golf cart rentals during booking

Water Taxi Options

Want something more flexible? Water taxis are your friend.

Several companies offer private or shared rides:

• H2O Sports Water Taxi: Leaves from Harbour Town on Hilton Head
• Outside Hilton Head: Departs from Shelter Cove Marina and offers cool “Daufuskie Island History & Artisans Tours”
• Vagabond Cruise: Runs weekly tours including transportation

Water taxis are perfect if you want a customized schedule or to mix in some guided activities with your transportation.

Getting Around The Island (Golf Carts Are Your BFF)

Once you arrive on Daufuskie, forget about cars. Golf carts rule the island, and for good reason.

Most of the island’s roads are dirt and the whole place is only about 8 square miles. Golf carts are the perfect way to explore beaches, historic sites, and local restaurants.

Why Rent In Advance

Let me be crystal clear: reserve your golf cart before your trip. The number of rental carts is limited, and nothing ruins a vacation faster than being stranded at the dock.

Many ferry services offer package deals including golf cart rentals, or you can book directly through companies like Daufuskie Life that provide premium carts and shuttle services.

For bigger groups, request carts that seat up to 6 passengers. Some companies even offer shuttles for luggage and pets.

What To Expect On Your Ferry Ride

The boat ride takes about 30-40 minutes, which is the perfect amount of time to:

• Spot dolphins playing in the wake (happens almost every trip!)
• Take Instagram-worthy photos of the marshland
• Feel the stress melt away as you literally leave the mainland behind

Modern ferries have both outdoor viewing decks and air-conditioned indoor seating. You’ll carry on your own luggage, but there’s no fee for beach gear or coolers.

Safety is taken seriously, with occasional suspensions during severe weather (like that unusual dock icing in January 2025).

Pro Tips For A Smooth Trip

• Book. In. Advance. Seriously, both ferries and golf carts sell out regularly.
• Check tide schedules if using Island Head Ferry since departure times vary with the tides.
• Arrive early – at least 15-30 minutes before scheduled departure.
• Pack smart: Sunscreen, water, and any personal items you need. The island has limited shopping.
• Parking: Most ferry departure points offer free parking, but spaces fill quickly in peak season.
• Weather awareness: Ferries operate rain or shine, but extreme conditions can cause cancellations.

Quick Reference: Your Departure Options

From Where?	Ferry Provider	Duration	Reservations	Golf Cart Available?	Special Notes
Hilton Head	Lowcountry Ferry	30-40 min	Recommended	Yes	Climate-controlled, free parking
Hilton Head	Island Head Ferry	Varies	Required	Yes	Schedule depends on tides
Bluffton	May River Excursions	30-40 min	Required	Yes	Departs from Old Town
Harbour Town	H2O Sports Water Taxi	Flexible	Varies	Yes	Private bookings available
Shelter Cove	Outside Hilton Head	Flexible	Recommended	Yes	History tours included

Is It Worth The Extra Planning?

Absolutely.

The extra steps required to reach Daufuskie are exactly what keep it special. While tourists pack Hilton Head’s beaches, you’ll be exploring quiet shorelines and historic sites at your own pace.

The ferry ride builds anticipation and gives you a chance to transition from mainland hustle to island time. Dolphins escort your boat like a welcome committee, and the salt marsh ecosystem you’ll pass through is among the most productive on earth.

Once you’re cruising the island’s dirt roads in your golf cart, windows down, with nothing but the sound of birds and ocean waves, you’ll understand why a place that’s harder to reach often offers the most rewarding experience.

Just remember to book your ferry and golf cart well in advance, and prepare for an unforgettable South Carolina experience that feels worlds away from ordinary.