Daufuski Island is positioned on the southern end of the South Carolina coast near Savannah, Georgia. On the island is a waterfront restaurant called the Daufuski Island Crab Company. My family and I ventured to Daufuski specifically to enjoy the restaurant. Without a doubt, the Crab Company gives you an island vibe similar to being in the Caribbean or Bahamas. Here was my experience getting to and eating at Daufuski Island Crab Company.

How To Get To Daufuski Island

Daufuski is only accessible by boat, as no roads connect the island to the mainland. For this reason, to access Daufuski, you will be required to go via a personally owned boat or a ferry. My family and I visited the island on a Carefree Boat Club vessel out of Skidaway Island, Georgia. 

Freeport Marina is positioned along the intercoastal waterway, making access easy when coming by a personally owned watercraft. Furthermore, the marina is just steps from the Crab Company restaurant. 

Without a doubt, ample dockage space is available even during busy summer weekends. Keep in mind when it is busy, maneuverability is limited, but you’ll have plenty of depth at low tide. However, it should be noted the marina charges a ten dollar daily dockage fee. A friendly attendant greets you as you step off the dock and onto the island. 

Daufuski Island Crab Companys Island Vibe

I was pleasantly surprised by the restaurant’s atmosphere when I set foot on the property. Here is what make the island restaurant a fun place to visit.

Outdoor Seating With Shade

The vast majority of the restaurant seating space is outdoor, except for a round tiki bar with a roof and a small building adjacent to the bar. However, it should be noted abundant shade is available between umbrellas and large moss-filled oak trees. Therefore, during the hot summer months you can avoid roasting in the sun. 

Tiki Bar

Without question, the Crab Company tiki bar is impressive. The circular bar has ample seating to accommodate 20 plus people. Additionally, it is covered to keep you out of the sun and rain. Lastly, the bar is fully stocked with beer, liquor, wine, and ice drink machines serving up pina coladas and margaritas. 

A quick tip, when ordering a beer from the bar, look at the surf board attached to the tiki bar support beam. Here is where you will find the varieties of beer served at the restaurant, as it is not listed on the menu. 

Music

When we first arrived to the restaurant by boat, music was playing; however, by the time we began eating, a live band had set up and started playing. Live music is available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays according to the bartender. Live music added a nice touch to the dining experience.  

Lighting

While we did not stay until after sunset, Edison light bulbs are hung overhead throughout the entire property. For this reason, the bar would be well lit and glow during the nighttime hours. Lastly, the tike bar had similar lighting. However, the bulbs were painted red. The red is to reduce the attraction of bugs and is easier on the eyes. 

The Daufuski Island Crab Company Food

The restaurant’s menu offers a multitude of seafood options. For this reason, non seafood eaters are a bit limited. 

Some of the notable menu items include a local flounder sandwich, tacos with shrimp, tuna, or mahi mahi, conch ceviche, and more. 

On our trip, I order the flounder sandwich and mahi mahi tacos, which my father and law and I split. My wife and mother in law do not eat seafood, so they each ordered a very nice garden salad with honey mustard dressing. 

Notably, the restaurant offers a kid’s menu. Both of my kids enjoyed the chicken fingers and fries basket. 

Without a doubt, we were satisfied with the food. The food came out quickly and was hot and fresh tasting. I would eat at Daufuski Island Crab Company again. 

Negatives Of Daufuski Crab Company

My family and I were very satisfied with our eating experience at the restaurant. However, we felt a couple of improvements could be made. 

Cleaner Bathrooms

Two bathrooms are available, and they are positioned about 50 feet away from the restaurant at the foot of The General Store. Unfortunately, the bathrooms are out of date and not clean. I suggest using the bathroom ahead of time or on your boat if available. 

Friendly But Impatient Bar Staff

During our visit, the restaurant does not employ waiters or waitresses; patrons order food and drinks from the bar. 

Unquestionably, the bartender was friendly but lacked patience. However, it is understandable when she handled all the orders from people seated at the bar and surrounding tables. I noticed that you had to be prepared with your order before she would listen, as she needed to manage her time appropriately. Ensure that you and your family and friends have decided on your meal and drinks before catching the bartender’s attention. 

I Recommend Visiting Daufuski Island Crab Company

If you’re local to Savannah, Bluffton, or Hilton Head or are traveling in from out of town, I recommend visiting the island restaurant. Remember, you’ll need to get to the island by ferry or private boat. While on Daufuski consider a golf cart rental to explore the beaches, rum distillery, and more. My family and I rented a golf cart on our most recent stay. Come hungry and enjoy what the Crab Company has to offer.