Things to do in Sullivan's Island
Discover amazing Sullivan's Island activities and premium in-home experiences.
Sullivan's Island is a coastal gem where golden sands meet rich history and Southern charm. Known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and inviting local eateries, this island offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you're watching dolphins play in the surf or exploring old fortifications with stories to tell, Sullivan’s Island promises an unforgettable escape by the sea.
Popular Activities in Sullivan's Island
Shem Creek Kayak Tour to Bird Sanctuary
Paddle past shrimp boats and wildlife to a bird sanctuary on this guided Charleston kayak adventure.
Shem Creek Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals
Explore scenic Shem Creek at your own pace with flexible kayak and paddleboard rentals
Charleston Barrier Island Boat Tour with Wildlife
Private captain-led cruise to barrier islands with wildlife watching, swimming, and time to relax
Sullivan's Island Lighthouse Boat Tour
Enjoy a guided BYOB boat trip to Sullivan's Island Lighthouse with up to 6 guests
Charleston Dolphin & Seabird Boat Tour
Explore coastal ecosystems with a marine biologist and watch for dolphins and seabirds
Charleston Sunset Boat Cruise with Dolphins
Unwind on a private captained cruise with skyline views and dolphin sightings
Charleston Harbor Night Sail on Luxury Yacht
Savor harbor lights and stargazing on a serene 3-hour night sail
Charleston Old City Jail: 45-Minute Ghost Tour
Explore Charleston’s Old City Jail on a spine-tingling 45-minute guided ghost tour
Charleston Food Tour: Lowcountry Dishes & History
Taste iconic Lowcountry dishes on a guided walking food tour.
Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Walking Tour
Explore Charleston's oldest graveyard after dark on an exclusive guided walk
Charleston Cocktail Tour at Historic Inns
Sip curated cocktails at boutique inns while uncovering Charleston’s spirited history.
South of Broad Houses & Gardens Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s oldest quarter with inside access to two historic museum homes and gardens.
USS Yorktown Captain's Tour & Exclusive Access
Explore restricted areas of the famed aircraft carrier alongside an expert guide.
USS Yorktown Ghost Tour After Dark in Charleston
Explore eerie legends and restricted areas of the historic aircraft carrier after dark.
Local Guide's Charleston Historic District Tour
Explore Charleston’s storied streets and architecture with a knowledgeable local guide
Charleston Hidden Alleys & Passages Walking Tour
Discover Charleston's charming hidden alleys and historic passages on an intimate 2-hour guided walk.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Charleston Tour
Experience history, gardens, and wildlife with house, boat, and cabin tours in 4.5 hours
Drayton Hall & Charleston Strolls Combo Tour
Experience Charleston’s famed plantation and a guided downtown history walk with one convenient combo ticket.
2-Hour Wambaw Creek Blackwater Kayak Tour
Paddle serene blackwater creeks and spot wildlife in a protected wilderness setting.
Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise & Landmarks
Relax on a spacious pontoon and enjoy landmark views as the sun sets over Charleston Harbor
Mount Pleasant Harbor Cruise with Seating & Restrooms
Enjoy a 1.5-hour shared cruise with shaded seating and onboard restroom while taking in harbor views
Dolphin Watching Cruise in Charleston Harbor
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and iconic Charleston landmarks on a relaxed 1.5-hour pontoon cruise.
90-Minute Charleston Harbor Cruise & Dolphins
Relax on a 1.5-hour pontoon cruise with dolphin-spotting and iconic Charleston Harbor views
Charleston Harbor Party Boat Cruise with BYOB
Join other small groups for a two-hour Charleston Harbor party with music, games, and BYOB fun.
Charleston Ghost & Graveyard Harbor Cruise Combo
Experience Charleston’s history by boat and after-dark graveyard access on two top-rated tours.
Isle of Palms Surf Lesson with Gear Included
Catch your first waves in a 90-minute lesson with gear provided and safety-focused instructors.
2 Hour Dolphin & Morris Island Shelling Cruise
Search for wild dolphins and hunt for shells at Morris Island on a relaxed two-hour boat excursion
Explore the Charm of Sullivan's Island
Sullivan's Island is a delightful coastal gem where history meets natural beauty, offering visitors an inviting blend of relaxation and adventure. Known for its wide sandy beaches and rich historical significance, this island provides a serene escape just minutes from Charleston. Here, you can enjoy leisurely strolls along pristine shores or delve into the past at Fort Moultrie, which played pivotal roles in both the Revolutionary War and World War II.
Start your day with a sunrise walk on Station 18 Beach, where gentle waves lap against soft sands as dolphins playfully leap offshore. For lunch, savor fresh seafood at one of the local eateries like Poe’s Tavern—named after Edgar Allan Poe who was stationed here during his military service. As afternoon unfolds, rent bikes to explore charming neighborhoods lined with historic homes or take part in paddleboarding adventures through tranquil marshes that showcase stunning views unique to Sullivan's Island.
In summer months, live music fills the air from nearby venues while fall brings cooler breezes perfect for kite flying or beachcombing treasures washed ashore by Atlantic tides. Whether you're exploring maritime forests teeming with wildlife or enjoying sunset cocktails overlooking Breach Inlet’s picturesque waterscape—you'll find that every moment spent on Sullivan's Island captures an essence all its own: peaceful yet vibrant; timelessly captivating amidst ever-changing horizons.