Explore Daufuskie Island with Low Country Drifters

Remote. Historic. Unforgettable.

Tucked between Savannah and Hilton Head, Daufuskie Island, South Carolina, is one of the last places on the Southeastern coast that feels truly untouched. With no bridge to the mainland and roads made more for golf carts than cars, time moves more slowly here—and that’s exactly why people fall in love with it.

Whether you’re curious about a day trip to explore its culture and history or planning to stay a while and soak it all in, Low Country Drifters will make your visit smooth, personal, and unforgettable.

Two Ways to Experience Daufuskie

Perfect for those who want a guided adventure from Savannah without needing overnight accommodations. Our Island & Sea Combo includes a boat tour and a guided golf cart tour of the island, covering history, culture, and must-see spots. You’ll see a side of Daufuskie most day-trippers miss.

Planning to spend the night on Daufuskie? We’ll get you there with our reliable, scenic water taxi service from Savannah. We’ll also provide custom maps, local recommendations, and helpful info on where to eat, what to bring, and how to make the most of your stay.

Daufuskie Islan

Why Visit Daufuskie?

About the Island

Daufuskie Island is rich in Low Country culture, Gullah heritage, unspoiled beaches, and artistic flair. It’s a place where oyster shells crunch underfoot, wild dolphins play just offshore, and hand-painted signs point the way to hidden gems.

Only accessible by boat, Daufuskie Island is one of the area’s best-kept secrets. There are no hotels. No traffic lights. No chains. And that’s the beauty of it. Everything here is a little more personal, a little more quiet, and a lot more memorable.

With a full-time population of just over 400 people, the 5,000-acre island encompasses a rich cultural experience with Gullah history, the Daufuskie Island Distillery, an art gallery, various eateries, Marsh Tacky horses, and layered past – all of which can be easily accessed by a golf cart. Therefore, opting for a guided tour of the island is a perfect addition to a Low Country Drifters boat tour.

Due to its Gullah and Civil War history, Daufuskie Island was named a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

First inhabited by the Muscogee, “Daufuskie” comes from the Muscogee language and means “sharp feather”, for the island’s distinctive shape. Early Spanish and French explorers also made stops on Daufuskie. Spanish settlers introduced their distinctive Iberian horses to the area; their descendants, known as “Carolina Marsh Tacky,” still reside on the island.

Following the Revolutionary War, Daufuskie was in the center of the “live oaking” trade crucial to the development of US maritime power. Early in the Civil War, Union troops on Daufuskie supported the siege and reduction of Fort Pulaski, which protected the Savannah River entrance.

From the 1880s, the oyster industry flourished on Daufuskie. By the turn of the century, the island had a population of 2,000-3,000, most of whom worked in this lucrative shellfish trade. Sadly, pollution closed the oyster beds, and the island’s economy started its decline in the 1950s.

Why go to Daufuskie with Low Country Drifters?

We’re not just a boat ride—we’re your local connection.

We know the island well, we’ve built strong relationships with folks who live and work there, and we’re proud to show it off in a way that’s respectful, immersive, and fun.

Our guided tours provide an immersive experience where you can:

  • Explore a Car-Free Island: With no bridges connecting it to the mainland, Daufuskie is accessible only by boat, offering a secluded and peaceful retreat.
  • Discover Gullah-Geechee Heritage: Learn about the island’s deep-rooted history and the cultural traditions of the Gullah-Geechee people.
  • Visit Historic Landmarks: Tour the island’s preserved sites, including the First African Baptist Church and the Mary Fields School.
  • Expert Guides: Knowledgeable captains passionate about the region’s ecology and history.
  • Scenic Routes: Navigate winding creeks, barrier islands, and untouched coastal landscapes.
  • Personalized Experience: Private charters tailored to your interests—whether it’s wildlife, drinks at the distillery, history, or pure relaxation.

Recently on Daufuskie

Every Charter

  • Reserved as a private experience for up to six guests.
  • Children and pets are welcome (dogs are not allowed on all beaches, so please discuss with us)
  • We provide a cooler with cold water and ice (accommodating additional beverages), as well as limited space for your personal belongings and snacks
  • BYOB for ages 21+
  • Includes a Coast Guard-licensed captain as your private guide, as well as fuel
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