Sullivan’s Island is a charming island off the coast of Mount Pleasant. Life is a little slower here than bustling downtown Charleston and the surrounding more populated beaches. We’ve compiled a list of our Sullivan’s Island favorites.

Sullivan’s Island Beaches

The beach is the most obvious choice of activity on Sullivan’s Island. The beaches here are much less crowded than the surrounding beaches like Isle of Palms and Folly Beach. Public beach access is available throughout the island, known as numbered “stations.”

Each station access has a different trail leading out to the beach. Stations 18, 21, and 23 would be the best options if you’re looking for a scenic walk, while stations 28 and higher will give you the quickest walk to the beach. The lower stations are not suitable for swimming, so be sure to pay close attention to the signs if that is your goal!

Fun Fact: The stations correspond to the stops that existed on the trolleys that used to transport people to the beaches between Charleston and Isle of Palms.

Restaurants

While Sullivan’s Island is generally less crowded and less touristy than some of the surrounding areas, it still boasts some of the more popular restaurants in the Lowcountry. 

Home Team BBQ is always a hit. Think slow-smoked meats combined with a sports bar vibe and live entertainment. It’s casual, fun, and family-friendly, making it a perfect spot to grab dinner fresh off the beach.

The Co-Op is a popular spot for Instagrammers, and their food and drinks live up to the hype. Their menu consists of sandwiches and salads, but they’re most known for their frosé and their pink flamingo theme.

Poe’s Tavern is a fun gastropub with a somewhat eclectic feel. It is named for famed author Edgar Allen Poe and the decor and menu represent him and his evocative writing. 

Fun Fact: Edgar Allan Poe once lied about his age and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed at Fort Moultrie and you can see his influence throughout Sullivan’s Island, such as the Edgar Allan Poe Library and Poe’s Tavern.

Things to do

Fort Moultrie has been rebuilt twice and played a crucial role in both the American Revolution and The Civil War. It is no longer used as a military defense, but it has been restored for visitors to walk around and learn about its history. Visitors can also access a more remote stretch of beach from here and it is a popular place to watch the sunset.

If you visit the beaches of Sullivan’s Island during a windy day, you may be lucky enough to catch some kiteboarders. They’re usually far enough out that they don’t hinder beach access and swimming, but they’re fun to watch. They always put on a good show with their varying designs and colors and the way they navigate around each other and manipulate the wind with ease.

Rent bikes and ride around looking at homes. Biking allows you to slow down and appreciate the hoes while covering more ground than walking. Sullivan’s Island really does have some beautiful homes with the iconic Charleston porches. Check out our Modern Sullivan’s Island home.

Whether you’re a Lowcountry local, just visiting, or looking for your next home, Sullivan’s Island is worth the beautiful and easy 20 minute drive from downtown Charleston. We can’t wait to share our next project at Sullivan’s Island, but until then enjoy our Modern Sullivan’s Island project!