Sullivan's Island, SC is one of the main beaches outside of Charleston, SC and is just a 25 minute drive (traffic pending) from the Downtown Charleston area. With over 220,000 annual visitors and counting each year, Sullivan's Island is a hugely popular travel destination for South Carolinians and vacationers throughout the country alike. Sullivan's Island has gained a growing popularity thanks to it's "local" feel and pristine beaches. Due to it's "long-term-only" housing options, the island provides a local feel throughout the entire year. Pair that with an abundance of local history, local shops, fine dining and the widely popular sport of kitesurfing-and it's no question why Sullivan's Island is becoming many families' desired summer vacation destination.
Beachin'
Sullivan's Island features pristine beaches that stretch down the mile long ocean front side of the island. With beautiful rolling dunes and soft, white sand; the beaches at Sullivan's create a perfect haven for fun in the sun. You'll also find people taking their beach cruiser for a ride on the hard sand by the water, or drop in a fishing line off the edge of Breaches Inlet. No matter what you're into, the beaches of Sullivan's Island provide for an amazing fun filled day. Recently, a law was put into place that outlaws commercial photography and events on the beach, which means the preservation and use of the beach fully belongs to the public beach goers throughout the summer.
Explore Fort Moultrie and the History of Sullivan's
Charleston is often regarded as a hot bed for American history on many fronts such as settlements, agriculture, slavery, trade, religion and more. Sullivan's Island carries it's own slices of history that can be best experienced by checking out the storied Fort Moultrie. Fort Moultrie's importance in the history books covers more than 220 years of seacoast defense, from the first decisive victory in the American Revolution, to protecting the coast from U-boats in World War II. Poe's connection to Sullivan's Island began in 1827, when he was stationed at Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island in the United States Army. The island's gloomy marshes, swamps, and creeks would later serve as inspiration for some of his most famous works, including "The Gold-Bug," "The Oblong Box," and "The Fall of the House of Usher." Checking out his library provides for a great experience for any history buff or any literature fan. What other hidden treasures might you find?
Activities & Fitness
Sullivan's Island is a perfect destination for anyone who loves to enjoy the outdoors and get active! The beach is a perfect place for your morning walk or jog, and a great place to spend time with your furry friend! The naturally flat landscape of Sullivan's Island provides a haven for cyclists of all types. It's very common in the morning hours to see a brigade of joggers and bikers filling up the Sullivan's Island streets and taking in the beautiful morning island scenery. The island also hosts many other outdoor activities and events like the Polar Plunge, Fish Fry, 4th of July Fireworks, 5K runs and much more! Getting involved and intertwining with the local community is a great way to explore the island on a more personal level.
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing or kiteboarding is one of the fastest growing watersports during the 2020's and has seen an influx of new participants as of recent years. Due to it's sustained summer winds, Sullivan's Island, SC has become a must try spot for many kite surfers looking for thrills on the east coast. Station 28.5, the primary destination for kite boarders, provides the perfect oasis for kiting, as the sandbar extends hundreds of feet off the shore and creates a waist high pool during low tide. Surfing although not as popular on Sullivan's Island as Folly Beach, has seen an uptick of action as of recently. For the best waves, check out in front of the Windjammer on Isle of Palms (our sister island) for surf events, a sweet surf bar, and a great community of local surfers.
Local Downtown
While small in size and stature, downtown Sullivan's Island is often regarded as a place with local charm and friendly faces. Just off the Ben Sawyer bridge, you'll find a collection of incredible dining options with impeccable street side dining just blocks from the ocean. The range of options are wide as you can settle for something simple and small, or go full dress up mode and experience luxury fine dining. Small stores and boutiques are in no shortage as well, as the island hosts more than 10 different shops and beach stores. With each location providing it's own vibe and personality, it can be an enriching experience to check out each and every business and find out what hidden treasures may await.
There is certainly no right or wrong way to check out and have fun on Sullivan's Island! Whether it's hanging by the beach, catching a wave, or sipping a drink, the island has so much to offer every person who steps foot on it's sand.