Looking for serene beaches, history, and Southern charm? Head to Sullivan’s Island! Just 20 minutes from Charleston, this quiet barrier island blends relaxing shores with rich Revolutionary and Civil War history. Whether you’re into sunbathing, fort tours, or coastal cuisine, Sullivan’s Island offers a peaceful seaside escape.
Sullivan’s Island, SC Highlights:
- Relax on Sullivan’s Island Beach: Clean, uncrowded beaches with soft sand and gentle waves—perfect for families and couples.
- Tour Fort Moultrie National Historical Park: Walk through over 200 years of coastal defense history with scenic views of Charleston Harbor.
- Stroll Station 18½ Street: Snap a photo at one of the island’s most picturesque beach paths and enjoy iconic sunset views.
- Explore local shops and eateries on Middle Street: Discover charming boutiques and beloved restaurants with coastal flair.
- Walk or bike the island: Cruise past historic homes, palm trees, and marshland vistas on this bike-friendly island.
When I like to visit Sullivan’s Island, SC
The best time to visit Sullivan’s Island is from April through October, when the weather is warm and ideal for beachgoing, water sports, and al fresco dining. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and pleasant temps, while summer is perfect for sun and surf.
Tips for getting to Sullivan’s Island, SC
- If you are traveling by car: Sullivan’s Island is accessible via Ben Sawyer Boulevard, about 10 miles east of downtown Charleston.
- By Bus: CARTA bus service connects Charleston with Mount Pleasant, but direct service to the island is limited; rideshare or car is best.
- By Train: Amtrak stops in North Charleston; from there, rent a car or take a rideshare (about 30–40 minutes).
Where I like to stay in Sullivan’s Island, SC
- Vacation Rentals – Sullivan’s Island has no hotels, but charming beachfront cottages and upscale homes are available via Airbnb and Vrbo.
- Stay nearby in Mount Pleasant – Hotels like The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor or Shem Creek Inn are just minutes away.
- Luxury stays in Charleston – For a boutique experience, book a hotel downtown and enjoy an easy day trip to the island.
Best Things to Do in Sullivan’s Island, SC
1. Fort Moultrie
Fort Moultrie was constructed as a series of defense fortresses meant to protect Charleston. The fort was originally named Fort Sullivan and was the inspiration for the South Carolina flag and the state’s nickname “The Palmetto State.” The historic fort is the only part of the National Park System where is it possible to trace the entire history of the American coastal defense since 1776. Fort Moultrie has been restored in efforts to portray major battles that the fort was involved in from 1776 through World War II.
Fort Moultrie, 1214 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC, 29482, Phone: 843-883-3123
2. Mugdock Castle
The Mugdock Castle you can visit today on Sullivan Island is named for the original Mugdock Castle which was built in Scotland in the 14th century. It is located adjacent to historic Fort Moultrie, which dates back to the 1770’s and was built less than 2 decades ago, between 2003 and 2009. It is currently operating as a holiday rental, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy staying in a real fortified castle.
There are 6 bedchambers and 5.5 bathrooms and the house can accommodate up to 12 adventurers. Although the castle is furnished in period style it is fully fitted with modern appliances. Bikes and kayaks are provided for guests to explore the beautiful island.
Mugdock Castle , 1401 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482, 843 628 5327
3. Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse
The locals called Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse “Charleston Light” and is one of the most modern lighthouses in the United States. The structure of the lighthouse is slim and triangular and features a two-toned, black on top, white on the bottom; color blocked design.
The 140-foot tower was built from 1960-1962, and only the offshore beacons in Texas are newer. Sullivan’s Lighthouse is a dream for travelers because it is airconditioned and has an elevator to the top observation deck, unlike the older lighthouses on the coast. The Lighthouse is cared for by the Coast Guard and National Park Service.
Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, 1815 Ion Avenue, Sullivan’s Island, SC, 29482, Phone: 843-883-3123
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
4. Edgar Allan Poe Library
The Edgar Allan Poe Library is a unique feature of Sullivan’s Island that is housed in a renovated four-gun battery used in the Spanish-American War. The library moved to its present home in 1977 after having been located in an elementary school and township building previously.
Edgar Allan Poe, an American poet who was stationed on the island as a private from 1827-1828 with the army, is the library’s namesake. The library is closed on Sundays and has Wi-Fi and public internet for patron use.
1921 Ion Avenue, Sullivan’s Island, SC, 29482, Phone: 843-883-3914
5. Thomson Park
Thomson Park is a small interpretive public park developed by a local group to preserve the history of Battle of Sullivan’s Island during the Revolutionary War. This newer park was opened in 2011. Wayside exhibits depict the story of Colonel William “Danger” Thomson and the 435 soldiers who defended Fort Sullivan victoriously from the British attack. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic beach views where parking and beach access is free for the public.
Thomson Park, 3241 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC, 29482, Phone: 843-860-7193
Where to Eat in Sullivan’s Island, SC
6. The Obstinate Daughter
The Obstinate Daughter is a southern restaurant with dishes influenced by Spanish, French, and Italian flavors on Sullivan’s Island. Nicknamed, the “Food Fort,” The menu reflects a progressive food menu with tapas, a raw bar, and wood-fired pizzas amongst their excellent seafood selections and belief in sustainable restaurant practices. The Obstinate Daughter is open for lunch during the week and dinner every day with a weekend brunch available.
The Obstinate Daughter, 2063 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC, 29482, Phone: 843-416-5020
7. Home Team BBQ
Home Team BBQ began in a renovated gas station in Charleston in 2006. The owner, Aaron Siegel, and his team were able to open several locations around Charleston, and as far as Colorado. Home Team BBQ specialized in slow-cooked meats, southern comfort food, and barbecue sauces from every region of the country. The restaurant has been featured on Food Network, and Chefs Aaron Siegel and Taylor Garrigan have both won numerous awards and TV Shows such as Chopped. Home Team uses local, fresh ingredients, the bar boasts a wide variety of whiskeys, cocktails, and craft beer, and the restaurant is host to live music and blues festivals.
Home Team BBQ, 2209 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC, 29482, Phone: 843-225-7427
8. Mex 1 Coastal Cantina
This authentic coastal cantina is named for a stretch of highway from Baja, California, to Tijuana, Mexico where some of the best taco shops and surf spots can be found. Mex 1 Coastal Cantina brings the bold, flavorful food from the southwest coast and brings it out east so that Sullivan’s Island can enjoy authentically, Baja Mexican cuisine in a laidback, surf and beach-inspired atmosphere. The food served at Mex 1 is fresh and locally sourced, and the meats are smoked on site.
Mex 1 Coastal Cantina , 2205 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC, 29482, Phone: 843-882-8172
9. Republic Ice Cream
Republic Ice Cream is a family-owned restaurant dating back to 1917 that offered homemade ice-cream deliveries in a horse-drawn buggy. The ice-cream was made with milk from the family dairy, and by 1919 the two brothers who were selling ice-cream had a stand on Coney Island and sold 18,000 cones in their first weekend. The great-grandchildren of these two brothers still operate the shop today and never stop striving to make the perfect ice-cream.
Republic Ice Cream, 2120 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC, 29484, Phone: 843-882-8296
My favorite local events:
- Fourth of July Fireworks – Enjoy patriotic beach celebrations with fireworks over the ocean.
- Sullivan’s Island Community Yard Sale (Spring/Fall) – A fun chance to hunt for treasures across the island’s streets.
- Fort Moultrie Flag Day Ceremony (June 14) – Commemorative event honoring military history with presentations and reenactments.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina:
- Charleston (20–25 min) – Tour antebellum mansions, stroll The Battery, or explore King Street’s shops and dining.
- Mount Pleasant (10–15 min) – Visit Shem Creek, Patriots Point Naval Museum, or dine dockside with marsh views.
- Isle of Palms (5–10 min) – Enjoy family-friendly beaches, live music, and seaside restaurants just north of Sullivan’s.
- Boone Hall Plantation (25 min) – Explore one of America’s oldest working plantations with moss-draped oak alleys and heritage tours.
- Charleston Tea Garden (30 min) – Visit America’s only large-scale tea plantation on nearby Wadmalaw Island.
- Morris Island Lighthouse (30 min) – Hike or boat to scenic lighthouse ruins for photography and history buffs.
Plan Your Trip