Daufuskie Island

It may require a little preplanning, but do not miss Daufuskie Island when you visit Hilton Head. While you are enjoying the Daufuskie Island Resort or the Breathe Spa, you will also enjoy their beach, play golf, go bike riding or go sight seeing. (You can still enjoy these pastimes as day visitors) There is also a private community nearby, Haig Point. Weddings and receptions are often held on Daufuskie Island. The island remains in a state of "Lowcountry" culture that is captured nowhere else.

Be sure to plan ahead if you decide to tour Daufuskie Island. You must make reservations to lay golf or use the luxurious spa. Making reservations will also give you a fare on the ferry at no cost. Yes, you will have to get to the island by ferry. The Daufuskie Island Resort Ferry (843-341-4870) departs the Embarkation Center on Squire Pope Road (near the back entrance of Hilton Head Plantation). Its about a 45 minute ride.

Other interesting items offered on Daufuskie Island are the Bald Eagles nest at Bloody Point, the Old Silverdew Winery Ruins, and the shops of local artisans. You can also visit the First Union Baptist Church, the local school house where Pat Conroy taught.

You can rent a boat to Daufuskie Island so be sure to have your drivers license. Most water sports companies on Hilton head offer boats for rent. There are marinas at Daufuskie Island awaiting you.

History of Daufuskie Island

Florida's Yemassee Indians once used Daufuskie Island, translated as "Land with a Point", as a resting place before and after raids on the English settlement of Charles Town. The English became eager to protect themselves from the Indians so they began patrolling the coastal islands. The two foes would battle twice in the place now known as Daufuskie Island's Bloody Point. Later the residents would be under complete control of England and the people would also run into pirate problems.

later in the 19th Century, Daufuskie Island residents produced cotton, lumber, indigo, and oysters. The plantation owners hosted great parties to boast their lifestyles. In the 1950's most island industries had closed down and only the descendants remained including slaves. The slaves isolated themselves and formed what is presently called the Gullah Country.The land is unspoiled and is considered Hilton Head as it once was 50 years ago.

Daufuskie Island Tours and Adventures

1. Narrated Ferry and Water tours to Daufuskie Island
2. Tour to the old Gullah Church
3. Visit the General Store for Relcos and Books
4. Self Exploration
5. Cruise the Intra-Coastal Waterway past Daufuskie and Fort Jackson to historic Savannah

Reservations required Calibogue Cruises - 843-342-8687 (TOUR)