Daufuskie is one of the last truly unique places in America.
Anyone who tries to describe Daufuskie Island finds it impossible to do it justice. No matter how much you hear about the Island, you will be surprised when you visit for the first time. To get the most enjoyment out of your Daufuskie experience, follow these simple tips:
Disconnect
Daufuskie Island is only accessible by water. It is situated between Hilton Head Island and Savannah. As you boat over to the island, either with a private tour or on a ferry ride, turn off your phone, set up your “out of office” email autoresponder and give up any expectation of communication with the outside world. Cell service is spotty and things often do not go as planned (see tip below). Use this opportunity to relax and engage with the experience.
Expect the Unexpected
There is one blacktop road on Daufuskie Island, the rest of the roads and paths are paved with Daufuskie dust. This magical dust permeates everything on the island and, among other things, it causes mechanical breakdowns. Things don’t go as planned, but that is another one of Daufuskie’s charms.
Get Artsy
Daufuskie is home to several incredible artists. They embrace the experience of disconnecting from the mainland and concentrating on their work. Don’t miss The Iron Fish Gallery, home of metalsmith Chase Allen. Chase’s wall sculptures are whimsical interpretations of nautical themes, depicted through his skillful metalwork. Silver Dew Pottery is another must-visit destination. Lancy and Emily make high quality, artistic pottery that is both functional and beautiful.
Stop and Smell the Flowers
The trails, woods and beaches of Daufuskie boast a wild, chaotic beauty. Any area that isn’t constantly maintained will soon be run over with vines, shrubs, trees and grasses. These places offer a glimpse into how Hilton Head was 50 years ago. A visit to the beach is an absolute must!
Feel the Magic
Of all its great features, the best part of Daufuskie is definitely the people. Never pass up the opportunity to chat with a local. The Island has a long history of interesting events, residents and visitors. Many Daufuskie stories feature supernatural forces, superstitions and hexes. For more in-depth information on the Island’s history, historical sites and local legends, visit the Daufuskie History Museum.
There are several options for visiting Daufuskie Island. For a quality, fully guided boat and golf cart tour of the Island, call Tour Daufuskie at (843) 842-9449. If you prefer a more independent experience, take the Daufuskie Island Ferry from the Bluffton Oyster Factory Dock to Freeport Marina and rent a golf cart.
