Your Field Guide to Dewees Island

Planning ahead makes all the difference

Dewees Island is a private, residential community. If you’re visiting as a guest or contractor, staying in the Island Suites, or renting from a homeowner, this guide is for you.

All visitors are expected to follow posted rules and leave no trace. By stepping onto the Island, visitors understand the inherent risks and accept personal responsibility for their safety and actions while here.

Safety First

In an emergency, call 911.
For non-emergencies, call Dewees Public Safety at 843-296-4952.

Your Journey to the Island

Dockside Parking

Dewees Marina parking is limited and private.
Arrive early to allow time to park and unload
Unload and load your belongings at the marina.
Luggage loading is self-service.
Ferry crew's focus is on boat operations and safety.
Wait for all passengers to exit before boarding

Bags & Belongings

Each property may use up to 3 luggage carts.
Pack light. Space is limited.
Luggage may get wet in the rain.
Consider packing supplies in waterproof tubs.
Do not load rolling suitcases in luggage carts.
Wheel rolling bags down the gangway.

Pack with Purpose

There are no shops or restaurants on Dewees.
Bring food, drinks, and anything you’ll need.
Bad weather gear, bug spray, sunscreen
No single-use plastics allowed.
Separate and drop off trash and recycling.
Oversized deliveries handled by the homeowner.

Your Passage Across

Ferry access is by reservation only.
All tickets must be booked through the private reservation system.
Tickets must be reserved at least 10 minutes before mainland departure.
Tickets must be reserved at least 40 minutes before Dewees departure.
No ferry runs at 1:00 or 1:30 pm on Wednesdays.
Weather may delay service.
Private boats must be registered with the Port Captain.
Only owners may dock on Dewees.

Once Docked on the Island

On the Paths & Trails

Transportation by golf cart, bicycle, or on foot.
Carts must stay on roads and paths.
The speed limit is 15 mph.
Only licensed drivers may operate carts.
Avoid driving through puddles.
Reserve golf carts ahead of time. Availability limited
Golf carts must yield to trucks and equipment.

Play & Explore

Clubhouse, pool, tennis, pickleball, ping pong, and community bikes, canoes.
The Nature Center features touch tanks and exhibits.
Fishing, crabbing, and shellfishing with a valid license.
Take only what you’ll eat and share the spaces.
Miles of shoreline and multiple community docks.
Use caution near docks.

FLORA & FAUNA

The island is protected by a permanent conservation easement.
All wildlife is protected under state and federal law.
Wildlife includes deer, bobcats, alligators, coyotes, snakes, and more.
Observe from a safe distance.
The island’s dunes, marsh grasses, and maritime forests are fragile habitats.
Please stay on paths, avoid walking on dunes, and help protect native plants
Click here to learn more about the island's animals.

Shoreline & Surf

The beaches are natural and unguarded.
Swim at your own risk.
Take only a few shells.
Never walk or play on dunes.
Be aware of rip currents and strong surf.
Watch for stingrays and jellyfish.
Expect sharp shells, oysters, and barnacles.

Clouds & Currents

Summer storms can arrive quickly, plan ahead.
Roads may flood during heavy rains or tides.
Seek shelter immediately if lightning strikes.
Hurricanes may require evacuation on short notice.
Sun can be strong. Wear hat and sunscreen.
Strong winds affect ferry and beach safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dewees Island open to the public?

Dewees Island is a private, residential community, and only guests of property owners are permitted to visit. The island’s ferry service is reserved exclusively for residents and their guests. Unfortunately, members of the public are not allowed to access the island or board the ferry without prior authorization from an owner.

We appreciate your understanding and respect for the privacy and tranquility of our island community. If you are planning a visit, please ensure that your arrangements have been made directly with a Dewees Island property owner.

If you are interested in real estate on the island, you may contact one of the approved realtors on the real estate tab.

What Should I Do in an Emergency?

Dewees Island’s emergency response services may take longer to reach you than those in urban areas. In an emergency, call 911 first, and be prepared with a Dewees Island address and describe your exact location.

After calling 911, your call will be routed to our island’s Public Safety Department, which can also be reached at (843) 296-4952. We have a fire station on the island, a first responder on duty at all times, a helicopter landing field, and an emergency boat for transportation in weather-permissible conditions.

What Emergency Services Are Available?

Can I Dock My Boat on Dewees Island?

What Should I Pack for a Visit?

Dewees Island does not offer stores or restaurants, so you’ll need to bring all the supplies you’ll need during your stay, including food, drinks, and other essentials.

Please limit plastics and consider using only environmentally friendly products—for example, condensed laundry soap instead of large plastic containers. Use a soda stream instead of bringing cans and bottles for refreshments.

How Are Water and Sewer Handled?

Marina Rules & Info

What Are the Fire Safety Rules?

How Do I Catch the Ferry?

The Dewees Island community is accessible only via a private ferry, which departs from Isle of Palms hourly and every half-hour from Dewees Island. All visitors must preregister with a property owner or an approved POA real estate agent.

To reserve a ferry, owners must use the new ferry ticketing system, which is accessible through their accounts. Guests can access the system via a link provided by the owner.

Ferry Rates:

$25.00 per person per ride ($50 round trip).

Ferry Schedule:

Monday - Thursday:
- Isle of Palms: 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Dewees Island: 6:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Friday:
- Isle of Palms: 6:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
- Dewees Island: 6:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Saturday:
- Isle of Palms: 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
- Dewees Island: 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Sunday:
- Isle of Palms: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Dewees Island: 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Please note:

Wednesdays: No 1:00 p.m. or 1:30 p.m. runs.
School days: 7:30 a.m. ferry departs at 7:25 a.m.

Arrive 10 minutes before departure and limit carts to one or two. Pets must be leashed or in carriers, and shirts and shoes are required.

Can I Stay at Huyler House?

1. Who can rent a suite at Huyler House?

Only Dewees Island homeowners and their registered guests can rent a suite at Huyler House.

2. How do I reserve a suite?

Reservations for suites are made using a private reservation system. Homeowners can access this system through their accounts.

3. Can I rent a suite for my guests if I am not staying?

Yes, homeowners can reserve a suite for their guests through the reservation system, even if the homeowner is not staying.

4. How far in advance should I make a reservation?

It’s best to reserve as early as possible, especially during busy times. Suite reservations for weekends (Friday-Sunday) must be made no later than the prior Thursday.

5. What amenities are available for suite guests?

Suite guests can access the pool, communal bicycles, beach chairs, and other shared community amenities.

6. Are pets allowed in the suites?

Certain suites are pet-friendly. Be sure to confirm pet availability through the system when making your reservation.

7. How do I cancel a reservation?

Cancellations can be managed through the reservation system. A $30 fee applies for cancellations made within 72 hours of the reservation.

For Dewees Owners