Scenic Sullivan’s Island beach is situated on the Atlantic Ocean, between Breach Inlet and Charleston Harbor, and is open to the public year-round. The beach is smooth and sandy and stretches for over three miles. So, it is easy to walk, bike, or just relax the beach on SI.
Kids can spend time building sand castles, playing beach games, or swimming in the ocean. Adults can relax on the beach and cool off in the water. Also, you can enjoy watching the beautiful boats as they pass by on the Ocean.
Take in both incredible sunrises and sunsets from the beach. The South end of the island offers views of Charleston Harbor, Ft. Sumter, the City of Charleston, the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, and much more. Visitors to the North End of the beach can view the Isle of Palms and Breach Inlet. Also, the beach offers incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean from anywhere.
Learn how to have a wedding on Sullivan’s Island beach or bonfire. Permits are required. Remember, there will be more of the beach exposed for visitors to use closer to low tide. Find out the tides on Sullivan’s Island. Also, check the beach weather before your visit.
To make your trip to the beach more enjoyable, consider renting a beach umbrella, bike, or chair. If your need accommodations on the Island, use any of the Booking.com, Expedia, or Hotels.com search boxes on this website.
Sullivan’s Island Beach Parking
Sullivan’s Island beach parking is free in the public right of way in designated areas. Parking areas are marked. There is not any paid parking available on the Island. Also, some parking is available behind Town Hall when it is closed for business and at Battery Thompson on Breach Inlet.
Keep in mind, all four vehicle tires must be off the street, and never park in front of beach access paths.
Sullivan’s Island has limited parking. Try and get to the Island early to find a place. Also, remember that SI Beach parking can be difficult on weekends during the summer month, especially on Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. Follow all the parking rules. SIPD enforces them. However, parking is much easier to find during the week and non-Summer months.
Book a flight to Charleston, SC for your Sullivan’s Island vacation.
Public Beach Access
Sullivan’s Island public beach access points are located throughout the Island. There are many access points for beachgoers on the island. Beach access is available on just about every block. Beach access paths may be either wooden boardwalks or sand.
Furthermore, please use the designated beach access paths and don’t go into the dunes. Also, do not access the beach through the yards of private homes.
Handicap Access
Sullivan’s Island Beach handicap access points are located at Station 18, Station 21, and Station 26. Most of the streets that run East to West are called stations on the SI. Also, The Town offers specialized wheelchairs to access and use on the beach. Reservations for these beach access wheelchairs must be made in advance.
Please follow all the beach rules and regulations. Regulations are conveniently posted at the entrance to most of the access paths. These rules allow everyone to enjoy their day on the Island.
Sullivan’s Island Beach Rules
Rules to follow on Sullivan’s Island beach. Prohibited: Alcohol, Litter, Glass Containers, Single Use Plastics, Powered Vehicles on the Beach. No Tobacco or Smoking Products. Permits required for Dogs, Bonfires, Parties, or Boats. Please follow these beach rules for Sullivan’s Island for a clean beach today and in the future!
The comprehensive list of Sullivan’s Island Beach rules.
Is Fishing Allowed on the Beach
You can fish from the beach! So, try your luck in the surf fishing for species like Red Drum, Flounder, or Speckled Trout. Fishing is usually good around the rock groins along the beach too. Sheepshead is another type of fish that anglers can catch around the rocks. However, be careful not to hang your line on the rocks. Fishing from the beach requires a fishing license for adults.
Sullivan’s Island Tide Information.
Also, You can hire a charter boat to take you fishing while you stay on the Island. Offshore and Inshore charters are available.
Are Dogs allowed on Sullivan’s Island Beach
The beach allows dogs only at certain times. From May 1st through September 30th, dogs can be off their leashes and run on the beach from 5 a.m. until 10 a.m. The Town prohibits dogs from being on the beach between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. However, dogs can be on the beach from 6 p.m. until 10 a.m. as long as they are on leashes.
Also, Sullivan’s Island requires a dog permit for all dogs to be allowed on the beach, streets, or private property. Residents and non-residents must have a permit for their dogs to be on the Island. Please follow these dog rules. The Town enforces them.
Learn more about Fort Moultrie, fishing, Sullivan’s Island beach parking, Charleston Light, and restaurants on Sullivan’s Island.
Things to do on Sullivan’s Island while you are on your vacation.