Daufuskie Island is a sea island located at the southern tip of Beaufort County. Savannah, Georgia is one hour to the east, separated by the Intracoastal Waterway and the Savannah River. Accessible only by boat, or ferry, the island was able to retain its original fabric for many years. Several developments, including the affluent Haig Point, have changed the dynamic of the island, at least somewhat, in more recent years but the beauty, culture, and wilderness of the island remain intact. Freeport Marina, pictured below, is the first sign of civilization when you arrive on the island. Several small cabin rentals, a general store, and restaurant are available.
It is frequently said that Daufuskie’s name in Gullah – “das • fus • cay” – means “the first caye” (or “key”) north of Savannah. However, this is inaccurate. The Creek Indians were the island’s first inhabitants, and in their language “Daufa” means “feather” and “Fuskie” means “pointed.” They joined these two words to refer to the shape of the island. Over the years, the spelling and pronunciation have changed. Today the accepted pronunciation is “duh • FUS • key.”
Gullah culture is alive and well on many South Carolina’s sea islands, including Daufuskie. This unique blend of English, Scottish, and various West African dialects and tradtions evolved among slaves who came from different countries and found themselves working together on plantations. Below is a house typically found on the island associated with the Gullah commmunity.
When Union forces overran Beaufort-area islands early in the Civil War, white plantation owners fled, leaving property and slaves behind. After the war, Daufuskie’s remoteness allowed Gullah to survive and flourish through the generations. Bus tours are a popular and economical way to see the island since minimal cars are allowed. Golf carts and mopeds are also available if you prefer a self-guided tour.
Hilton Head, 30 minutes west by boat, is the largest town near Daufuskie Island.
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