Spinal Decompression Therapy in Sullivan's Island, SC

Ask any Charlestonian about their preferred local beach, and there’s a good chance they’ll immediately dive into the attributes of Sullivan’s Island. As a former resident of the Holy City, I can attest that this slice of paradise is one of the Lowcountry’s best places to go for rest, relaxation, and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality.

“It's seen hundreds of years of American history (Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is at one end of the island), has beautiful public beaches, and is home to some of the area's best restaurants that are located just a short walk from the sand,” says Elizabeth Rhodes, senior editor at Travel + Leisure and a South Carolina native.

While its culinary footprint may be impressive, it’s even more admirable when you consider the size of the island itself. “Sullivan’s Island is only 2.5 miles long, so it’s quite smaller than most people think,” says Ben Towill, co-founder of Basic Projects, a Charleston-based hospitality and design firm he runs with his wife, Kate. Small it may be, but its glorious scenery, family-friendly atmosphere, and unique local businesses create an inviting beach town experience that should be on every traveler’s to-do list when in Charleston.

Read on to start planning your trip to Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina.

Where to Stay

Rhodes notes there are “no hotels or major chains” on the island, so finding accommodations through Airbnb, Vrbo, or another short-term rental service will be your best bet. Below, we rounded up a few of the area’s top-rated properties.

Up to 10 guests can make this four-bedroom, three-bath property their Sullivan’s Island home away from home. The open floor plan, gourmet kitchen, full-sized ping pong table, outdoor shower, and easy access to the beach make it ideal for large family gatherings, especially those with little kids in tow.

If something smaller is more your speed, take a look at this one-bedroom condo overlooking Sullivan’s Island’s hub of activity. At this rental, location is everything; you can walk to the shops, restaurants, and the beach—you’ll only have to get in your car if you need to go to the grocery store or want to explore the neighboring communities.

Best Things to Do

Beach days are always on the schedule on Sullivan’s Island, even when the temperatures fall below 70. The beaches are “perfectly secluded during the off-season,” says Rhodes, and you can snuggle up with a picnic basket, blanket, and book before watching the sunset. Public beach access points can be found all along the south side of the island.

Kate Towill, who recommends Sealand Adventure Sports for bike rentals, says her typical route involves the following: “You can start with a quick bike ride through town, and then we love going through the neighborhoods. We then head over to the Breach Inlet to Isle of Palms and loop back to Sullivan’s to grab a seat on the patio of Sullivan’s Fish Camp.”

You can’t go inside Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, also known as “Charleston Light,” but it makes for a great photo opp. It’s also easy to spot, thanks to its two black and white color blocks and its position near Station 18 (a public beach access spot).

Part history lesson, part scenic stop, Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is a must-do for anyone looking for an educational activity in the area. Its roots go back to the 1700s, but today’s fort has been restored to show different periods between 1809 and 1947. “We love walking the perimeter of the park, which is filled with beautiful wildflowers, and then looping back toward the ocean where you can see Fort Sumter,” says Kate Towill.

On the hottest summer days, the only thing that can bring any relief—besides a dip in the ocean—is an extra-cold drink. And on Sullivan’s Island, that means heading to The Co-Op. “The Co-Op is a must for stocking up on frosé,” says Rhodes, referring to the popular frozen alcoholic beverage the cafe is popular for. Pro tip: It’s best served alongside one of the in-house gourmet breakfast or lunch sandwiches.

Best Restaurants

“Home Team is a great casual spot, perfect for families or large groups of friends. Whether you're coming off the beach after a long day in the sun or heading out to the Island for an early dinner, their famous Gamechangers are not to be missed,” says Ben Towill. If you do indulge in the restaurant's signature frozen rum cocktail, proceed with caution—the Gamechanger's strength shouldn’t be underestimated.

“Poe's Tavern—inspired by poet Edgar Allen Poe, who was stationed on Sullivan's Island during his stint in the military—serves up delicious burgers and perfectly crispy hand-cut fries,” says Rhodes. When the weather permits, grab a table out front or on the porch, where you can appreciate the liveliness of Middle Street.

For “a more refined dinner option on the island,” Rhodes suggests The Obstinate Daughter. At this Southern restaurant with Italian, Spanish, and French influences, the menu consists of items like grilled octopus, peel-and-eat shrimp, ricotta gnocchi, and house-made pizzas. Due to its popularity, a reservation is highly recommended.

Sullivan’s Fish Camp’s history on the island stretches back to 1988. The restaurant is the sibling property of Charleston’s Basic Kitchen and Post House in Mount Pleasant—from the Towills’ company, Basic Projects—but it stands on its own in terms of its narrative and menu offerings. Highlights include jalapeño and Gouda hushpuppies, the Fish Camp Sandwich, and the frozen piña colada. Kate Towill also recommends the New England lobster roll.

Ben Towill describes High Thyme as a “local spot with a laid-back atmosphere and delicious American fare dishes.” Think shrimp and grits, seared scallops, and pan-fried crab and shrimp cakes, all washed down with a selection of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails. Note that High Thyme doesn’t take reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Best Shopping

Local art makes for a great souvenir or present for a loved one, and Sandpiper Gallery offers an impressive selection of paintings, jewelry, pottery, and other pieces made in a variety of mediums. It’s also conveniently located next door to Home Team BBQ and Mex 1 Coastal Cocina.

It’s hard to walk into Goldbug and not leave with something in hand, especially if you’re looking for something shiny or sparkly. Along with her locally made jewelry, owner and designer Ashley Reid Martin curates a tempting selection of swimwear, resort wear, beauty products, greeting cards, and candles, among other items.

Travelers who prefer active vacations to reading a book on the beach will more than appreciate the inventory at Sealand Adventure Sports. The kite, surf, skate, and paddle shop provides a range of rentals—including beach cruisers, chairs, and umbrellas—and carries apparel brands like Roxy, Huk, and O’Neill.

Best Time to Visit

Summer on Sullivan’s Island is definitely a crowd favorite, so you’ll want to plan your visit accordingly. “Sullivan's Island gets incredibly busy during the weekends once the weather warms up,” says Rhodes. “I recommend visiting during the weekdays to avoid the crowds of locals who flock here during the weekends.”

If you want to avoid peak season—and have an easier time parking—consider the fall. “Late fall is idyllic on Sullivan’s. The mornings are brisk, and the beach is filled with locals walking their dogs,” says Ben Towill. “In late October, you’ll also start to see monarch butterflies migrating to the coast, which is pretty incredible.” Another sign of autumn? The blooming pink muhly grass, a sight that begs to be photographed.

How to Get There

“Sullivan’s Island is the closest beach from downtown Charleston, about 15 to 20 minutes [away],” says Kate Towill. This convenient proximity makes it a great day trip from the peninsula; just be sure to head out on the earlier side if you want a better chance of finding a parking space. If you’re coming straight from Charleston International Airport (CHS), though, the drive takes about 35 minutes, depending on traffic.

How to Get Around

Driving isn’t a prerequisite for exploring Sullivan’s Island. Instead, you can take advantage of the sidewalks and paved bike paths, which allow pedestrians and bikers to easily get around, or rent a golf cart. If you choose the latter option, be sure to have a thorough understanding of where you can and cannot drive on the island.

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The fifth North Atlantic right whale calf of the season was spotted near Sullivan’s Island last week.

The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network stated that South Carolina proves to be an important area for right whales and their newborn calves, which is a beacon of hope for this critically endangered species.

Currently, there are 384 documented right whales, with fewer than 70 of them being reproducing females. Due to stress or a lack of food, these females may give birth every three to ten years.

Last year, 11 documented calves were born, but as many as 20 have been born in other recent years, according to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Institute.

Boat strikes, noise disturbances, entanglement, and habitat degradation are just a few of the difficulties North Atlantic right whales are up against.

Climate change is increasingly raising concerns for North Atlantic right whales. While the southeastern U.S. serves as their calving grounds, the northeastern U.S. is where they forage for food. However, changing ocean conditions, such as rising temperatures, are causing their food supply to shift outside of their typical areas. This situation is putting additional strain on right whales as they search for food in new locations, according to the South Carolina Aquarium.

“Right whales are precious and critically endangered. They are also essential to the ocean, environment, and ecosystem. It’s our responsibility to keep the last ones safe so they don’t disappear forever,” said Lauren Rust, the executive director of the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network.

The South Carolina Aquarium provides several ways to protect valuable species. These include respecting their habitats by keeping a safe distance, properly disposing of your fishing gear and other litter, and reporting any stranded whales to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources at 1-800-922-5431.

Just a twenty minute drive from Charleston’s stoic steeples and stately single houses, Sullivan’s Island, with its storybook cottages and pristine beach, is the charmingly sun-bleached answer to the Holy City’s pomp and circumstance. Sullivan’s is also a secret locals are keen to keep. The small island measures only two and a half miles long, but the town punches well above its weight when it comes to natural beauty, historical significance, curb appeal, and places to eat, drink, and shop. Here are the best things to do on Sullivan’s Island.

Enjoy the Outdoors

With 2.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean-fronting shoreline, Sullivan’s Island’s main draw is its pristine shoreline, a wide sandy stretch prime for sandcastle-building and sunbathing. Called “Stations” as a nod to the trolley line that once ran in the area, the island’s wayfaring points also serve as easy meet-ups for beach access. Each station has its perks: If you want to stay close to the main drag of Middle Street, with all of its restaurants and shops, Stations 21, 22, and 22 ½ are your best bets; If you want to be a little farther from the action and close to the lighthouse, try Station 18 ½.

Connecting the Charleston Light (the iconic black-and-white lighthouse) to Fort Moultrie (the Revolutionary War-era fort that’s now a National Historic Park), this two-mile trail winds through the island’s maritime forest for a different perspective of the spot’s natural beauty.

Savor the Impressive (Especially for Its Size) Food Scene

The Lowcountry is shrimp country, and at this fish-camp-inspired restaurant, you’ll find the best local ones, pulled straight from nearby Shem Creek. Try them fried with garlic aioli or stirred into fried Carolina Gold rice with fresno chilis and XO sauce. If you’ve got a thirsty crew, wash it all down with the Big Fish Jug of Margs.

sullivansseafoodandbar.com; 2019 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

With a menu inspired by local, seasonal ingredients and surrounds informed by the area’s maritime culture, the self-proclaimed “eclectic Southern” restaurant isn’t dishing what you’d necessarily expect for beach-town fare. That’s due largely in part to its chef, two-time James Beard Award nominee Jacques Larson, whose menu includes house-made pastas and “Lowcountry frites,” polenta fries served with comeback sauce. Not in the mood to come off the beach for dinner? Pick up a wood-fired pizza for a sunset picnic on the sand.

theobstinatedaughter.com; 2063 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29483

The sister restaurant to concepts first born in St. John and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, The Longboard celebrates seafood in its freshest, lightest forms, with dishes like poke bowls, ceviche, and sushi wraps. Don’t miss Oyster Happy Hour (weekdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.), with its rotating selection of the bivalves, served raw, grilled, dressed, or as shooters.

thelongboardsullivans.com; 2213-B Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

When you’ve tired of seafood, settle into this local favorite for a pulled pork sandwich or perfect smoked wings. Better yet, order “The Board” for your crew of beach bums; it’s a sampler of wings, sausage, ribs, pulled pork, and turkey, served with a trio of their memorable sides, like the mac & cheese or collard greens. Be sure to try their signature sipper, the Gamechanger, a frozen fruity concoction with two kinds of rum. They even sell the mix, should you want to make it at home.

hometeambbq.com; 2209 Middle St.; Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

So named for Edgar Allen Poe, the famed poet who was stationed on Sullivan’s Island with the U.S. Army in 1827 and 1828, the gastropub is the town’s destination for burgers and fish tacos. Roll off the beach in your cover-up and flip flops for lunch at one of the umbrella-shaded picnic tables out front.

poestavern.com; 2210 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Shop Local Favorites

Rethink the kitschy airbrushed-tee-filled surf shops you’re accustomed to seeing in beach towns. Generally speaking, that’s not the vibe on Sullivan’s, but especially not at this thoughtfully curated boutique, where Vogue veteran and owner Katie Poole sells effortlessly stylish women’s clothing (think hand-blocked prints and flirty silhouettes) and accessories, along with some kids’ offerings.

bennieandcoco.com; 2213 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC, 29482

Forget the stuffy gallery experiences you’ve had in the past. At this spot on the island’s main drag, you can shop everything from paintings to ceramics. And given that the welcoming spot highlights pieces at a variety of prices, you’re sure to find a memorable keepsake of your time in the Lowcountry. And should you make a detour to Charleston, be sure to visit its downtown counterpart Dare Gallery, on Broad Street, which has a contemporary sculpture garden.

sandpipergallery.net; 2201 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC, 29482

Shop handmade jewelry by SCAD grad Ashley Reid Martin, along with other giftable finds, like natural beauty finds and hand-painted greeting cards, at this bright and airy outpost that’s positioned in the middle of all the action.

shopgoldbug.com; 2205-E Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

This special community gathering spot has a little something for everybody, peddling a wide-ranging collection of art and home and garden goods. Plus, they offer plant-potting services for the green-thumb-challenged and host creative events like sourdough workshops and Mahjong lessons.

makers-post.com; 2019 B. Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

Discover the Area’s History

First settled in the late 17th century, Sullivan’s Island has its own Historic District that’s listed on the National Register. Stroll Middle Street, I’on Avenue, and Central Avenue between Stations 17 and 18 ½ to see private homes that once served as both military properties and residential dwellings and were built between 1870 (like the Dr. John B. Patrick House on Middle Street) through about 1950 (like the Fort Moultrie Chapel on Central Avenue, built in 1944). For true, stop-in-your-stroll cottage charm, make sure to walk past circa-1900 1808 I’On Avenue—a prime example of the architectural type. (Just don’t stare or linger for too long! It’s a private residence.)

Built in 1962 and officially called the Charleston Light, the black-and-white lighthouse that rises above the beach has become synonymous with the island—with most locals referring to it as the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse. While it’s not open to the public, you can read the explanatory markers on your way to the beach at Station 18 ½. It also makes for a great photo opp from the sand.

Still under construction as the Revolutionary War began, this coastal garrison (the island’s first) was notably built from palmetto logs and sand. Even so, the British advance was thwarted by the defensive efforts there, saving Charleston from a 1776 occupation (it eventually fell in 1780) and it was renamed for its victorious Commander William Moultrie. The original fell into disrepair, as did the second that was built in its place. Finally, a third brick iteration was completed in 1809. It served as a garrison for the Federal troops, and once they abandoned it, by the Confederacy. It was modernized in the 1870s and was used until World War II. Operated by the National Park Service, it’s worth a visit for anyone interested in military history, as it’s been restored to showcase its various functions from 1809 to 1947.

nps.gov; 1214 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

Dear Island Neighbors,

I hope your holidays were enjoyable and your new year is off to a very promising beginning.

The start of the year is a perfect time to make sure you’re on top of Town information. You can see the options, and sign up for them, at: https://sullivansisland.sc.gov/residents/town-notification-sign-ups . In particular, please note the Everbridge Emergency Notification System that sends text and/or email alerts concerning road closures, severe weather updates, emergency water main breaks, public works projects and other pertinent information.

Also, please make sure that our Water and Sewer Department has your current phone number for any needed emergency contact when you’re not home. They won’t be able to reach you if all they have is your former land line number, and if you’ve got water spewing from a busted pipe under your house, time is money. Please contact Mary Poole, our Administrative Specialist who handles water and sewer billing. You can call her at 843 883 5733 or email her at mpoole@sullivansisland.sc.gov .

2025 WAS A BUSY YEAR!

This is a logical time to look back on the last year and note the many accomplishments of our great Town staff. Needless to say, while we hit these milestones in 2025, most of them were the results of efforts begun in earlier years.

Flooding Prevention, Stormwater Management and Resilience:

Town Capital Improvements:

Budgeting Processes and Communication:

Public Safety:

Land Use and Natural Resources:

I’m looking forward to our 2026 accomplishments, but until then...

...see you around the Island!

Pat O’Neil Mayor

843-670-9266

oneilp@sullivansisland.sc.gov