A Guide Of Things To Do On Sullivan’s Island
Looking for the best things to do on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina? This beautiful barrier island near Charleston offers pristine beaches, historic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and locally loved restaurants. From exploring Fort Moultrie and relaxing along Sullivan’s Island Beach to visiting the iconic Charleston Light and biking scenic island streets, there’s something for every visitor.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a full vacation, this Sullivan’s Island travel guide highlights the top attractions and activities you won’t want to miss.
Restaurants offer everything from seafood to barbecue and more. Sullivan’s Island restaurants are all conveniently located a few blocks from each other.
You can fish from the beach or book a fishing charter on Sullivan’s Island or nearby Isle of Palms or Mt. Pleasant. Both inshore and offshore fishing are available in the vicinity.
You can quickly go shopping on Isle of Palms for souvenirs, gifts, and beach memorabilia—the IOP is just a short drive away. IOP shopping is available in the Pavillion Shoppes on Front Beach, The Island Center, and Ocean Park Plaza on Palm Blvd. Enjoy browsing the shops and finding a special gift for yourself, a family member, or a friend! Mt. Pleasant is located nearby, with almost unlimited shopping available.
Look for the souvenirs and gifts at The Island Mermaid and My Favorite Things on Isle of Palms.
Ghost Crabs on Sullivan’s Island
Visitors walking the beach at sunset or after dark will often notice small pale crabs quickly darting across the sand near the dunes. These are ghost crabs, a common part of the South Carolina coast. Because they are mostly nocturnal, they are easiest to spot during quieter evening hours when the beach is less crowded.
Ghost crabs dig small holes in the dunes and upper beach areas and are considered an important part of the coastal ecosystem. Children especially enjoy spotting them during evening beach walks on Sullivan’s Island.
Battery Thomson on Breach Inlet
Thomson Park on Breach Inlet was the site of a Revolutionary War battle. This small park at the site of Battery Thomson is now a great place to relax and take an outdoor lunch, visit the beach, or watch the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. Historical markers tell the story of the battle at Battery Thomson. Colonial soldiers were able to repel British forces trying to launch an attack on Fort Sullivan from the Isle of Palms. Thomson Park is located on the north end of the Island.
From the south end of Sullivan’s Island, you can get an excellent view of historic Fort Sumter. Shots were fired at Fort Sumter, which started the American Civil War.
SI Public Parks – J. Marshall Stith Park
Sullivan’s Island Park, also called J. Marshall Stith Park, features tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts. You can also enjoy a picnic at the park or sit and enjoy the Gazebo. Take a walk or bike ride and enjoy all the beautiful homes.
Climb “The Hill” at Stith Park and enjoy an excellent view of the Atlantic Ocean, The Waterway, Ben Sawyer Bridge, and more. “The Hill” also hides a fort that was part of the defenses of Fort Moultrie. Sliding down “The Hill” is an age-old tradition. The sliding paths are now well-worn. Find out how to park near Sullivan’s Island beach access points.
Golf Courses Near Sullivan’s Island
Although Sullivan’s Island has no golf courses, you can easily access several excellent courses that are just a short drive away. Wild Dunes Resort, located on the Isle of Palms, boasts the Links Course and the Harbor Course. Additionally, Mt. Pleasant has four courses, and Charleston has three more. Discover these other golf courses near Sullivan’s Island. The Harbor Course and The Links Course at Wild Dunes are close by.
Sullivan’s Island Area Golf Courses Guide.
Golf Courses Near Sullivan’s Island SC
Walking Tours In Nearby Charleston:
Easily book a Charleston Walking Tour using the links below.
Sullivan’s Island Area Attractions
Oyster Roasts In Charleston SC
If you are visiting Sullivan’s Island In The fall or winter, be sure to check out one of the biggest traditions in the Lowcountry, an oyster roast. There are oyster roasts open to the public in nearby Mt. Pleasant and Charleston throughout the season. Be sure to check out an Oyster Roast in Charleston, SC if you can. It is an experience you will always remember.
Even More To Do On Your Visit
The Isle of Palms is located just over the Breach Inlet Bridge. Isle of Palms offers beachfront and waterfront dining, souvenir shopping, a grocery store, a liquor store, and a pier at the county park on Front Beach.
The Windjammer offers live music on the weekends and during the week, depending on the time of year.
Sullivan’s Island bike rentals are available too. Rent a bike and cruise the island. Ride to the beach, Fort Moultrie, and The Lighthouse, or cruise the quiet neighborhoods.
Also, Mt. Pleasant is a large city located just over the Ben Sawyer Bridge. Shem Creek restaurants are only about ten minutes away. Dining on Shem Creek is renowned for the beautiful waterfront views all the restaurants offer. Visit plantations, golf courses, tourist attractions, shops, and much more in Mt. Pleasant.
Free Things to Do in Charleston, SC.
Weather for Sullivan’s Island
Find the present weather conditions and check out the future forecast. Stay ready for any weather while you visit Sullivan’s Island.
Find the current weather and tides for the island.
Tides for Sullivan’s Island
Find the current tides and upcoming tidal forecasts on Sullivan’s Island.
Find out more about the beach on Sullivan’s Island, where to find beach access, and how to visit the USS Yorktown. Also, find accommodations on Sullivan’s Island and nearby Isle of Palms.
Churches on Sullivan’s Island
Find churches on Sullivan’s Island or the nearby Isle of Palms and Mt. Pleasant. These churches welcome visitors and would be glad to have you join them for services!
If you are planning on fishing while on Sullivan’s Island, be sure to purchase a South Carolina fishing license.
We hope this page has helped answer the question of what to do on Sullivan’s Island.