On Daufuskie, all days are not created equal. We aren’t saying that one day is better than another; but we do think certain days fit certain personalities. So which day of the week is best for you to visit Daufuskie Island?
In general, hours are flexible over here. Businesses ebb and flow with the seasons. We have put together a guide of general hours for most businesses, however part of Daufuskie’s charm is the self-governing, relaxed atmosphere. Don’t hold our feet to the fire. This is a general guide to help you choose the best day to visit Daufuskie. We hope it helps you plan your trip to the island!
Let’s start with Sundays and Mondays. First time visitors be advised, they tend to be a bit quieter than the rest of the week. Those of you looking for some serious off-the-beaten-path time on Daufuskie, come over on a Sunday or Monday. What’s best for the first two days of the week? Exploring Daufuskie’s natural beauty. The roads, quiet. People, scarce. Nature, abundant. Stop along a dirt road and take in the serenity. Or walk our almost three miles of beautiful white-sand beaches without seeing more than a handful of people.
Sundays and Monday’s are also the perfect day to visit and take advantage of our Daufuskie Beach Day! Click the link for more information.
Tuesdays through Saturdays are our busier days. Just about everything on the island is open. You’ll have options on all three restaurants, multiple galleries to enjoy, attractions, two museums, and numerous historic spots to explore. For first time visitors looking to check out everything Daufuskie has to offer, choose one of these days to visit Daufuskie Island.
Looking for specifics? We’ve included some of the many wonderful things to do on Daufuskie and when they are open. If something below is one your “Must See” list, make sure to visit a day they are open. We do warn you, hours of operation over here tend to be written in the sand. Give us a call to double check hours!
The Iron Fish Gallery is a fantastic stop. Self-taught artist Chase Allen has been creating beautiful coastal metal sculptures for almost 20 years. Nationally recognized, his working gallery is a must-see. One can easily see his love for Daufuskie and her funky culture, as it is apparent in his island-inspired artwork. Although Chase is not always in, his gallery is open to the public seven days a week, 8:00 – 6:00, year around.
Daufuskie Island boasts a wonderful museum. Supported by the Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation, the Billie Burn Historic Museum has an impressive collection of artifacts and information about Daufuskie’s unique history. In the restored Mount Caramel Baptist Church II and Jane Hamilton School, you are sure to soak in Dafuuskie’s vast and interesting history. Open Tuesdays – Saturdays from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm.
School Grounds Coffee at Maryfield School is an excellent addition to your day. Located in the old cafeteria, the coffee shop is a step back in time. Peruse old pictures and relics from the old schoolhouse while enjoying delicious coffee, tea or frozen drinks. And if Pam has any treats on the counter, good luck saying no! Open Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.
While at Maryfield School, pop in to Daufuskie Blues. Located in one of the old school rooms, Rhonda Davis and Leanne Coulter create beautiful wares using natural indigo dye. The ancient, almost magical, plant creates a beautiful blue and this fascinating process can be observed in their working studio. They tend to be in Tuesdays – Saturdays 11:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Daufuskie Soap Company, handcrafted soaps and lotions, is a wonderful stop hidden in Daufuskie’s Historic District. Jan Crosby makes all of her small-batch bath and body products in-house. With clean and pure ingredients, indulge in the soothing scents of Daufuskie Peach. Hours are Tuesday – Saturday 11:00 am – 4:00 pm, but if you see the sign hanging out front then go on in!
Daufuskie Island Community Farm is also open seven days a week, during daylight hours. All volunteer run, the farm is a fantastic stop for a walking tour. Goats, chickens, and ducks all free range. There is also the “hambassador” Sir Simon the pig and a lovely garden and orchard. The Community Farm is open seven days a week, during daylight hours.
Looking to spice things up? Then Daufuskie Island Distillery is your stop! Boasting seven different rums, two vodkas and a bourdon, Daufuskie’s only distillery is certain to please all palettes. Made in house, take a tour to learn the process and sample a few different spirits. Daufuskie Island Distillery is open Tuesday – Saturday, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Mike and Joanne Loftus operate an incredible woodworking shop and sell organic wines out of their beautiful post and beam barn. From hand crafted wooden boats, kayaks, paddleboards and canoes to wine-holders and bottle openers, Mike’s expert craftsmanship is a must see on Daufuskie. Stop in next door for the island’s best variety of wine and beer. Wine and Woodworks is open Saturdays 11:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Looking for a bite to eat? Lucy Bell’s Cafe boasts local seafood options, a plethora of sandwiches and salads, and their Food Network famous Daufuskie Devil Crab. Sit under the beautiful live oak and enjoy some authentic Daufuskie cuisine Tuesdays through Sundays, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Bell’s at the Beach is another excellent option for lunch and dinner. Located in Melrose Community overlooking the beautiful Calibogue sound, sit inside or on their screened in porch and take in the views as you enjoy a bite to eat. A variety of sandwiches, burgers and salads are offered at lunch and dinner, with a few signature dishes added on in the evenings. In peak season, open daily for lunch and dinner 11:00 am – 11:00 pm. Please be aware of modified hours in the off season; double check their website linked above.
Daufuskie Crab Company has wonderful views of the salt marsh. Located at the northern tip of the island, stop by the Crab Company for some good food and great atmosphere. Don’t let the name deceive you. Although they offer a wonderful Daufuskie Devil Crab dish, they also serve many other seafood and non seafood options. Open daily 11:30 am – 8:00 pm.
We hope this guide helps not only first time visitors, but anyone and everyone planning a day to visit Daufuskie Island!