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Daufuskie Island

Three Cottages.
One Extraordinary Island Escape.

Moon River Resort

A Private Waterfront Retreat on Daufuskie Island

There are places you visit… and places that stay with you. Moon River Resort is one of those places.

Tucked away on Daufuskie Island and accessible only by boat, Moon River Resort is a private waterfront resort designed for families, friends, and groups of all ages who want to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with each other.

Here, dolphins swim past your dock. Sunsets light up the Savannah skyline. Kids race barefoot down sandy paths. Grandparents linger on porches. Friends gather around firepits.

Mornings are slow. Evenings stretch long. And days are guided by tides instead of notifications.

Each cottage even includes an optional “electronics safe” — a gentle invitation to put phones and tablets in time-out — because the best moments here happen face-to-face. With three beautifully appointed waterfront cottages, a 100-foot private dock, and 3.25 acres of natural beauty, Moon River Resort offers the rare opportunity to rent an entire island-style resort for your group.

Perfect for family reunions, small destination weddings, yoga retreats, multi-family vacations, milestone celebrations, and once-in-a-lifetime gatherings — or simply time together that feels meaningful again.
This is where generations gather.

This is where stories begin.

This is Moon River Resort.

At-A-Glance

  • 3 Waterfront Cottages
  • 9 Bedrooms
  • 9 Bathrooms Total
  • Sleeps Large Groups Comfortably
  • 3 Fully Equipped Kitchens
  • 100’ Private Dock on the New River
  • 3.25 Private Acres
  • High-Speed Wi-Fi (and optional digital detox)
  • Ideal for Retreats, Reunions & Small Events

The Cottages

Three Cottages. One Resort Experience.

Moon River Resort features three beautifully furnished waterfront cottages:

The Turtle Cottage

3-Bedroom Waterfront Cottage on Daufuskie Island

Set within Moon River on Daufuskie Island, Turtle Cottage sits directly on the water with sweeping views across the New River toward Savannah. This three-bedroom retreat places you right at the shoreline, offering an immersive coastal experience from the moment you arrive.

Outdoor living is at the heart of the stay. The open-air lower level is designed for gathering, featuring hammock seating, ping pong, and cornhole, while a private dock extends your space out over the water. A shared outdoor fireplace provides the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring the island.

Inside, the home is thoughtfully designed for extended stays, with an open-concept layout and full kitchen that make it easy to relax, cook, and flow between indoor and outdoor living.

For those seeking a true waterfront escape on Daufuskie Island, Turtle Cottage offers direct access to the water, expansive views, and a peaceful, private setting.

  • Direct waterfront location
  • Private dock access
  • Open-air ground level with hammock, ping pong, and cornhole
  • Outdoor fireplace (shared within Moon River)
  • Full kitchen
  • Local guest support from Hilton Head Properties R&R
  • Ferry or boat access required
  • Golf cart rentals recommended
  • Limited grocery access on island

The Grouper Cottage

3-Bedroom Waterfront Cottage on Daufuskie Island

Tucked within the Moon River compound on Daufuskie Island, Grouper Cottage offers a true waterfront setting with uninterrupted views and a layout built for easygoing coastal living. This three-bedroom home keeps you closely connected to the water and the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.

Its shoreline position ensures the views are always part of the experience. The open-air lower level creates a relaxed gathering space with hammock seating, ping pong, and cornhole, while the nearby dock and shared outdoor fireplace invite you to spend more time outdoors along the water.

Inside, the home is designed for comfort and simplicity, featuring an open layout and full kitchen that make it easy to enjoy meals and downtime between island adventures.

For those looking for a 3-bedroom waterfront escape on Daufuskie Island, Grouper Cottage offers scenic views, inviting outdoor spaces, and a peaceful coastal atmosphere.

  • Direct waterfront location
  • Access to dock and shared outdoor fireplace
  • Open-air lower level with hammock, ping pong, and cornhole
  • Full kitchen
  • Local guest support from Hilton Head Properties R&R
  • Ferry or boat access required
  • Golf cart rentals recommended
  • Limited grocery access on island

The Crab Cottage

3-Bedroom Water View Cottage on Daufuskie Island

Set within Moon River on Daufuskie Island, Crab Cottage enjoys elevated views across the marsh and river toward Savannah. Positioned slightly back from the shoreline, this three-bedroom home still offers a strong connection to the water with a more private, tucked-away feel.

Outdoor living is central to the experience. The open-air lower level features hammock seating, ping pong, and cornhole, creating an easygoing space to gather throughout the day. Just steps away, the dock and shared outdoor fireplace invite guests to come together and enjoy the waterfront setting.

Inside, the home is designed for comfortable extended stays, with a full kitchen that makes it easy to settle in between beach days, bike rides, and time spent taking in the views.

For those seeking a 3-bedroom Daufuskie Island rental with water views, Crab Cottage offers a balance of privacy, shared amenities, and access to the relaxed Moon River coastal setting.

  • Water view location
  • Access to dock and shared outdoor fireplace
  • Open-air lower level with hammock, ping pong, and cornhole
  • Full kitchen
  • Local guest support from Hilton Head Properties R&R
  • Ferry or boat access required
  • Golf cart rentals recommended
  • Limited grocery access on island

Moon River Resort Amenities

The Cottage Amenities

  • Primary Suite – King Bed
  • Second Bedroom – King Bed
  • Third Bedroom – Double Bunk Bed with Trundle
  • Pull-Out Sleeper Sofa in Living Area
  • 3 Bedrooms | 3 Full Bathrooms
  • Fully Equipped Kitchen
  • 65” TV in Living Area
  • High-Speed Wi-Fi
  • Sunrise & Sunset Covered Decks
  • Large Screened Porch with Ping Pong, Cornhole & Games
When rented together, the three cottages create a seamless, private resort environment designed for shared experiences while still allowing personal space.

Grounds & Outdoor Amenities

Set on 3.25 lush acres at Daufuskie Bluff, Moon River Resort blends open meadows, towering live oaks, palmettos, and waterfront serenity.
  • 100’ Dock on the New River
  • Deepwater access on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
  • Dolphin watching & fishing
  • Lighted sandy road under the oaks
  • Waterfront firepit with seating and sand
  • Shady hammocks
  • Labyrinth Wildflower Chaos Garden
  • Outdoor play area with tetherball, horseshoes & log balance beam
  • Prevailing coastal breezes throughout the day
  • Golf cart rentals available for beach access
Guests may arrive by private boat, charter, or water taxi. Boat tie-ups available with reservation.

Daufuskie Island

An Island That Stops Time

Daufuskie Island has a way of slowing everything down. No traffic lights. No chain stores. No rush.

Guests of all ages fall in love with its simplicity — from young families to couples in their 80s who discover it for the first time and never want to leave.

Moon River Resort embraces that slower rhythm. Each cottage includes an “electronics safe” — a large woven basket where guests can place phones and tablets in “time out” if they choose. It’s an invitation, not a requirement. A reminder that the best connections here happen face-to-face, on porches, around firepits, and along the water.

Dolphins surface beside the dock daily. Fishing is excellent (license required). Breezes move gently through the oaks. Sunrises and sunsets feel cinematic.

This isn’t just a place to stay.

It’s a place to breathe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Because there is no traditional grocery store on the island, guests should plan ahead and bring groceries with them or arrange delivery prior to arrival. Some grocery services (including Harris Teeter) may deliver to the dock—availability can vary, so we recommend confirming in advance.

Good news: At the end of our road is Daufuskie’s, which carries small everyday grocery items, soda, beer, wine, and serves great sandwiches and pizza. Grocery delivery is availabile at https://www.cybervaletgrocery.com/. You must order in advance of arrival.

Plan for all meals and snacks for the duration of your stay, including:

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner items
  • Snacks, beverages, bottled water
  • Coffee, filters, creamers, sweeteners
  • Cooking basics you regularly use (spices, oils, specialty items)
  • Ice (availability on island can be limited)

Restaurants include:

  • Up in Smoke BBQ restaurant- www.upinsmokebbq101.com
  • Frye’s Chicken- www.restaurantji.com/sc/bluffton/frye-s-corner-/
  • Dine on the Deck- www.facebook.com/DaufuskieIslandRumCompany
  • Old Daufuskie Crab Company https://www.daufuskiedifference.com/restaurant
  • The Sportsman at Melrose https://www.facebook.com/sportsmanatmelrose/
  • Daufuskie Island Liquors- located at 103 Buckthorn Lane

We provide:

  • All paper products
  • Laundry detergent
  • Dishwasher pods and dish soap
  • Hair, body wash, and conditioner (our own brand)
  • Trash bags for your entire stay
  • Beach towels

You should bring:

  • Medications and prescriptions
  • Sunscreen, bug spray, and aloe
  • Beach towels (we provide two per bedroom)

Golf carts are delivered to each home (4- or 8-passenger carts).
Cost: $75–$100 per day.

For golf cart rentals, contact Pat at Daufuskie Life at (843) 805-9040 or reserve online at www.DaufuskieLife.com. He’s located right next door to Moon River and offers convenient delivery.

For bike rentals, reach out to Sports Addiction at (843) 915-8281.

Yes, dockage is available at the property for guests staying at Moon River. The fee is $50 for up to 7 days. Please be sure to properly moor your boat as the tides are very fast in this area. Under What Transportation.

Our preferred private charter companies are:

  • Island Head
  • Outside Hilton Head

Special rates apply. Both can accommodate up to 40 guests per trip and are familiar with the homes.

Yes. Dockage is available at the property for guests.

Boat charters are available through the following providers:

  • Island Head – (803) 866-8223 (departures from Savannah and Hilton Head)
  • Outside – (843) 686-6996 (departures from Savannah and Hilton Head)
  • Captain Dan – www.IslandShuttleBoatTours.com (departures from Savannah and Hilton Head)

Dock fee is $50 for stays up to 7 days.

  • Casual island wear
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Light jacket or layers for evenings
  • Rain gear (weather can change quickly)
  • Bikes (the island is approximately 3 miles by 5 miles)

Yes. Catering options include:

  • Ernestine – (843) 842-3011
  • Sallie Ann Robinson – (912) 604-8210
  • Chef Mau Plascencia – Available for meal preparation and delivery. View his Facebook page or contact at [email protected]
Absolutely. Both Island Head and Outside Hilton Head can coordinate ferry service and luggage transportation.
Yes! We offer a vacation planner to assist with: Family reunions Small waterfront weddings Corporate retreats Men’s and women’s groups Small retreats Fishing trips (charters depart from our dock—and guests often catch flounder and other large fish right off the dock)

Each home features:

  • Ping pong table
  • Corn hole game
  • Ring game
  • Outdoor grills
  • Picnic tables
  • Sunrise covered deck & sunset covered deck
  • Internet access with free YouTube TV on a 65” big-screen TVYes!
  • Wildflower Chaos Labyrinth
  • Horseshoes
  • Tetherball
  • Private 100’ dock
  • Community firepit
  • Future pavilions planned for 2027

Yes. A free beach is accessible from Turtle Beach to Beach Road. Lightweight Adirondack chairs are available for guest use.

Pack as if you’re heading to a private island… because you are. Woohoo!

Check our restaurant guide for unique dining experiences, and don’t hesitate to use our vacation planner to help design the perfect stay.

Weddings & Events

An Intimate, Destination-Style Experience

Moon River is ideal for smaller weddings, elopements, and curated events where connection matters more than crowds. With multiple cottages available, couples can host their closest family and friends on-site, creating a shared experience that extends beyond the ceremony itself. Daufuskie Island’s quiet charm—unspoiled beaches, maritime forests, and scenic marsh views—naturally sets the tone for a relaxed, meaningful celebration.

Flexible Spaces for Meaningful Moments

Whether you envision a barefoot ceremony beneath the oaks, a waterfront vow exchange at sunset, or a laid-back reception under the stars, Moon River offers a variety of natural backdrops to bring your vision to life. The property’s layout allows for:

  • Outdoor ceremonies surrounded by nature
  • Private dinners or catered receptions
  • Welcome gatherings, rehearsal dinners, or farewell brunches
  • Casual, multi-day celebrations that unfold at your own pace

This is not a one-size-fits-all venue—it’s a setting that adapts to your story.

Stay Together, Celebrate Longer

One of the most unique aspects of Moon River is the ability to turn a single-day event into a full destination experience. Guests stay together in thoughtfully designed cottages, creating a sense of connection and ease that traditional venues simply can’t offer. Similar cottage-style accommodations on Daufuskie commonly host small groups in comfortable, well-equipped spaces, making them ideal for shared stays and group celebrations.

From morning coffee on the porch to late-night conversations under the stars, every moment becomes part of the celebration.

Contact Us

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