Visitors often ask about what to do on Sullivan’s Island. Numerous options are available, and visiting the beautiful beach is the most popular choice. Another must-visit attraction is the Fort Moultrie National Historical Park which is one of the oldest forts in the United States. Additionally, you can catch a glimpse of the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse which, although not open to visitors, can be seen from the beach and other spots on the island.
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 also with almost unlimited shopping available.
If you have the time, you can visit the nearby Isle of Palms or Folly Beach, SC.
SI Public Parks – J. Marshall Stith Park
Sullivan’s Island park, also called J. Marshall Stith Park, features tennis, pickle ball, 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.
Thompson Park on Breach Inlet
Thompson Park on Breach Inlet was the site of a Revolutionary War battle. This small park 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 Thompson Park, located just before you cross the Breach Inlet Bridge to the Isle of Palms. Thompson 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 fired on Fort Sumter started the American Civil War.
Golf Courses
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 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.
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 renown for the beautiful waterfront views all the restaurants offer. Visit plantations, golf courses, tourist attractions, shops, and much more in Mt. Pleasant.
How Far is Sullivan’s Island from Charleston
Sullivan’s Island is located in Charleston County, East of Mt. Pleasant and south of Isle of Palms. Sullivan’s Island is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Charleston, SC. Also, from the Charleston International Airport to Sullivan’s is about 25 minutes.
From the Airport, take Interstate 26 towards Charleston, then take Highway 17 North over the Ravenel Bridge to Mt. Pleasant. After arriving in Mt. Pleasant, take Highway 703 to SI.
Weather for SI
Find the present weather conditions and check out the future forecast. Stay ready for any weather while you visit Sullivan’s Island.
Tides for SI
Find the current tides and upcoming tidal forecasts by clicking on the image.
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!
We hope this page has helped answer the question what to do on Sullivan’s Island.