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
Charleston Harbor Dolphin Cruise
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and iconic Charleston landmarks on a relaxed 1.5-hour pontoon cruise.
Semi-Private Captain Cocktail Party Boat Cruise
Join other small groups for a two-hour Charleston Harbor party with music, games, and BYOB fun.
Morning Harbor Cruise
Enjoy a 1.5-hour shared cruise with shaded seating and onboard restroom while taking in harbor views
Charleston Sunset Cruise
Relax on a spacious pontoon and enjoy landmark views as the sun sets over Charleston Harbor
Charleston Afternoon Harbor Cruise
Relax on a 1.5-hour pontoon cruise with dolphin-spotting and iconic Charleston Harbor views
Shem Creek 2-Hour Kayak Tour
Paddle past shrimp boats and wildlife to a bird sanctuary on this guided Charleston kayak adventure.
Shem Creek Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals
Explore scenic Shem Creek at your own pace with flexible kayak and paddleboard rentals
Charleston Marine Biologist-Guided Nature Boat Tour
Observe dolphins, birds, and saltmarsh wildlife on a private boat tour led by a marine biologist.
Charleston Sunset Boat Cruise
Savor golden hour views from a private boat as dolphins and seabirds glide by
Private Island Adventure Boat Cruise Around Charleston
Explore Charleston's barrier islands, spot dolphins, and relax on a private boat cruise
Sullivan's Island Lighthouse Private Boat Tour
Cruise Charleston waterways to view Sullivan's Island Lighthouse on a private charter
Moonlight Sail in Charleston Harbor
Experience Charleston's historic skyline under moonlit sails aboard a 50-ft luxury yacht
Savor the Flavors Tour of Downtown Charleston
Taste iconic Lowcountry dishes on a guided walking food tour.
Charleston Ghost and Graveyard Tour
Explore Charleston's oldest graveyard after dark on an exclusive guided walk
South of Broad Houses and Gardens Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s oldest quarter with inside access to two historic museum homes and gardens.
Charleston Ghost and Graveyard and Harbor Cruise Combo
Experience Charleston’s history by boat and after-dark graveyard access on two top-rated tours.
Toast of the Town Seasonal Cocktail Tour
Sip curated cocktails at boutique inns while uncovering Charleston’s spirited history.
USS Yorktown Captain’s Tour with Exclusive Access
Explore restricted areas of the famed aircraft carrier alongside an expert guide.
USS Yorktown Nighttime Ghost Tour
Explore eerie legends and restricted areas of the historic aircraft carrier after dark.
Charleston Haunted Jail Tour
Explore Charleston’s Old City Jail on a spine-tingling 45-minute guided ghost tour
Historic Downtown Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s storied streets and architecture with a knowledgeable local guide
Charleston's Alleys and Hidden Passages Walking Tour
Discover Charleston's charming hidden alleys and historic passages on an intimate 2-hour guided walk.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Tour
Discover centuries of history, lush gardens, and wildlife on a curated 4.5-hour visit.
90-Minute Surf Lesson on Isle of Palms
Catch your first waves in a 90-minute lesson with gear provided and safety-focused instructors.
Morning Dolphin Boat Tour on the Sea & the Rose
Search for wild dolphins and hunt for shells at Morris Island on a relaxed two-hour boat excursion
Drayton Hall and Charleston Strolls Combo Tour
Experience Charleston’s famed plantation and a guided downtown history walk with one convenient combo ticket.
2-Hour Wambaw Creek Wilderness Area Blackwater Tour
Paddle serene blackwater creeks and spot wildlife in a protected wilderness setting.
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.