The Most Remote Small Town in South Carolina Is the Perfect Place to Get Away From It All

Daufuskie Island, South Carolina, is one of the state's best, most charming hidden gems. It's one of the few places you can visit that has successfully resisted attempts at development, protecting its beautifully wild and rugged character. There are just over 500 people who live there, making it one of the state's smallest towns. With no connector bridges, it's also one of the most remote small towns, accessible only by boat. If your idea of the perfect getaway trip involves escaping the current mundane, perhaps stressful circumstances of daily living and responsibilities, this is your place!

South Carolina's Daufuskie Island is only five miles long and about 2.5 miles wide, but it offers an abundance of things to do while visiting.

Just for starters, it's a golfer's paradise. Play one of two courses at Haig Point, the 20-hole award-winning signature course designed by Rees Jones and set along the Calibogue Sound, or the 9-hole Osprey course, geared more towards relaxed family play or a quick outing. Speaking of golf, renting a golf cart is one of the best ways to get around Daufuskie Island.

Also at Haig Point, take a tour of the lighthouse built in 1873 when it's not occupied by guests staying overnight or utilizing it as an event venue.

Common forms of transportation on the island are golf carts and bicycles. You can bring your vehicle over on the Daufuskie Difference barge for a fee, which may be preferable if you're planning to stay longer than a day and have luggage.

Three miles of secluded, white-sanded beaches invite those seeking a relaxing day in the sun. You won't hear much more than the sounds of the ocean during a day at the beach on Daufuskie Island. Daufuskie Island, S.C., is also pet-friendly! Be sure to familiarize yourself with the leash rules before you head over.

You never know what kind of wildlife you may see while visiting Daufuskie Island, from birds to loggerhead sea turtles to alligators, grey fox squirrels, deer, and more! Animal lovers will certainly enjoy their time on the island.

When hunger strikes, head over to The Old Daufuskie Crab Company. It's one of a handful of restaurant choices on the island, and you'll find it at Freeport Marina. Be sure to try the Daufuskie Deviled Crab, one of the restaurant's most popular items. If you need to pick up anything (sunscreen, snacks, souvenirs, etc.), head over to the "Not so General" General Store. This one-stop shop offers a wide range of services, from fuel to cottage rentals. This is also where you can rent a golf cart.

When you're ready to connect with nature, a day trip to Daufuskie Island is waiting for you. Visit the official Daufuskie Island website to learn more. The website includes ferry service information, tour packages, and even lodging recommendations should you want to turn that day trip into a weekend getaway.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.