Daufuskie Island

Top choice


For those looking for an escape just a touch less discovered than Hilton Head Island, this idyllic island offers a sublime day trip and a window into the Lowcountry's slower-paced past. The attractions of the island – a historical trail, a few restaurants, a couple of golf clubs, some art galleries, a winery and a rum distillery – are best visited via golf cart, the primary mode of transport on the island. Its shores are only accessible by boat.

For information about the ferry and water taxi, visit www.daufuskieislandferry.com.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Harbour Town Lighthouse

3.32 MILES

Hilton Head's lighthouse, with the only female lighthouse keeper in North America, was built in 1970 and is prettily perched at the Harbour Town marina on…

2. Fort Pulaski National Monument

6.51 MILES

Located on Cockspur Island at the mouth of the Savannah River, Fort Pulaski was constructed after President James Madison ordered coastal fortifications…

3. Tybee Island Light Station & Museum

6.76 MILES

Take a self-guided tour of Tybee's iconic lighthouse and see panoramic views of the island from its observation deck. Tickets include admission to the…

4. North Beach

6.9 MILES

With fewer services and a vibe that feels more remote, this stretch of beach is a great place to relax. You can watch massive container ships drift in…

5. Heyward House Museum & Welcome Center

7.86 MILES

The Bluffton Historical Preservation Society has meticulously preserved this circa-1841 Carolina-farmhouse-style home, converting it into a welcome center…

6. Tybee Pier & Pavilion

8.81 MILES

Tybee's main beachside hub, with public bathrooms, concessions and a long fishing pier. Tables in the pavilion are available to rent by the hour.

7. Coastal Discovery Museum

9.56 MILES

A Smithsonian Affiliate, this museum is well worth a trip for its exhibits highlighting the island's rich Gullah history, natural wonders and other…

8. Little Tybee Island

10.14 MILES

This uninhabited barrier island, only accessible by boat or kayak, is just south of Tybee Island and is actually double its size. The preserved land is…