Pressure Washing in Sullivan's Island, SC

Just a twenty minute drive from Charleston’s stoic steeples and stately single houses, Sullivan’s Island, with its storybook cottages and pristine beach, is the charmingly sun-bleached answer to the Holy City’s pomp and circumstance. Sullivan’s is also a secret locals are keen to keep. The small island measures only two and a half miles long, but the town punches well above its weight when it comes to natural beauty, historical significance, curb appeal, and places to eat, drink, and shop. Here are the best things to do on Sullivan’s Island.

Enjoy the Outdoors

With 2.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean-fronting shoreline, Sullivan’s Island’s main draw is its pristine shoreline, a wide sandy stretch prime for sandcastle-building and sunbathing. Called “Stations” as a nod to the trolley line that once ran in the area, the island’s wayfaring points also serve as easy meet-ups for beach access. Each station has its perks: If you want to stay close to the main drag of Middle Street, with all of its restaurants and shops, Stations 21, 22, and 22 ½ are your best bets; If you want to be a little farther from the action and close to the lighthouse, try Station 18 ½.

Connecting the Charleston Light (the iconic black-and-white lighthouse) to Fort Moultrie (the Revolutionary War-era fort that’s now a National Historic Park), this two-mile trail winds through the island’s maritime forest for a different perspective of the spot’s natural beauty.

Savor the Impressive (Especially for Its Size) Food Scene

The Lowcountry is shrimp country, and at this fish-camp-inspired restaurant, you’ll find the best local ones, pulled straight from nearby Shem Creek. Try them fried with garlic aioli or stirred into fried Carolina Gold rice with fresno chilis and XO sauce. If you’ve got a thirsty crew, wash it all down with the Big Fish Jug of Margs.

sullivansseafoodandbar.com; 2019 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

With a menu inspired by local, seasonal ingredients and surrounds informed by the area’s maritime culture, the self-proclaimed “eclectic Southern” restaurant isn’t dishing what you’d necessarily expect for beach-town fare. That’s due largely in part to its chef, two-time James Beard Award nominee Jacques Larson, whose menu includes house-made pastas and “Lowcountry frites,” polenta fries served with comeback sauce. Not in the mood to come off the beach for dinner? Pick up a wood-fired pizza for a sunset picnic on the sand.

theobstinatedaughter.com; 2063 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29483

The sister restaurant to concepts first born in St. John and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, The Longboard celebrates seafood in its freshest, lightest forms, with dishes like poke bowls, ceviche, and sushi wraps. Don’t miss Oyster Happy Hour (weekdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.), with its rotating selection of the bivalves, served raw, grilled, dressed, or as shooters.

thelongboardsullivans.com; 2213-B Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

When you’ve tired of seafood, settle into this local favorite for a pulled pork sandwich or perfect smoked wings. Better yet, order “The Board” for your crew of beach bums; it’s a sampler of wings, sausage, ribs, pulled pork, and turkey, served with a trio of their memorable sides, like the mac & cheese or collard greens. Be sure to try their signature sipper, the Gamechanger, a frozen fruity concoction with two kinds of rum. They even sell the mix, should you want to make it at home.

hometeambbq.com; 2209 Middle St.; Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

So named for Edgar Allen Poe, the famed poet who was stationed on Sullivan’s Island with the U.S. Army in 1827 and 1828, the gastropub is the town’s destination for burgers and fish tacos. Roll off the beach in your cover-up and flip flops for lunch at one of the umbrella-shaded picnic tables out front.

poestavern.com; 2210 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Shop Local Favorites

Rethink the kitschy airbrushed-tee-filled surf shops you’re accustomed to seeing in beach towns. Generally speaking, that’s not the vibe on Sullivan’s, but especially not at this thoughtfully curated boutique, where Vogue veteran and owner Katie Poole sells effortlessly stylish women’s clothing (think hand-blocked prints and flirty silhouettes) and accessories, along with some kids’ offerings.

bennieandcoco.com; 2213 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC, 29482

Forget the stuffy gallery experiences you’ve had in the past. At this spot on the island’s main drag, you can shop everything from paintings to ceramics. And given that the welcoming spot highlights pieces at a variety of prices, you’re sure to find a memorable keepsake of your time in the Lowcountry. And should you make a detour to Charleston, be sure to visit its downtown counterpart Dare Gallery, on Broad Street, which has a contemporary sculpture garden.

sandpipergallery.net; 2201 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC, 29482

Shop handmade jewelry by SCAD grad Ashley Reid Martin, along with other giftable finds, like natural beauty finds and hand-painted greeting cards, at this bright and airy outpost that’s positioned in the middle of all the action.

shopgoldbug.com; 2205-E Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

This special community gathering spot has a little something for everybody, peddling a wide-ranging collection of art and home and garden goods. Plus, they offer plant-potting services for the green-thumb-challenged and host creative events like sourdough workshops and Mahjong lessons.

makers-post.com; 2019 B. Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

Discover the Area’s History

First settled in the late 17th century, Sullivan’s Island has its own Historic District that’s listed on the National Register. Stroll Middle Street, I’on Avenue, and Central Avenue between Stations 17 and 18 ½ to see private homes that once served as both military properties and residential dwellings and were built between 1870 (like the Dr. John B. Patrick House on Middle Street) through about 1950 (like the Fort Moultrie Chapel on Central Avenue, built in 1944). For true, stop-in-your-stroll cottage charm, make sure to walk past circa-1900 1808 I’On Avenue—a prime example of the architectural type. (Just don’t stare or linger for too long! It’s a private residence.)

Built in 1962 and officially called the Charleston Light, the black-and-white lighthouse that rises above the beach has become synonymous with the island—with most locals referring to it as the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse. While it’s not open to the public, you can read the explanatory markers on your way to the beach at Station 18 ½. It also makes for a great photo opp from the sand.

Still under construction as the Revolutionary War began, this coastal garrison (the island’s first) was notably built from palmetto logs and sand. Even so, the British advance was thwarted by the defensive efforts there, saving Charleston from a 1776 occupation (it eventually fell in 1780) and it was renamed for its victorious Commander William Moultrie. The original fell into disrepair, as did the second that was built in its place. Finally, a third brick iteration was completed in 1809. It served as a garrison for the Federal troops, and once they abandoned it, by the Confederacy. It was modernized in the 1870s and was used until World War II. Operated by the National Park Service, it’s worth a visit for anyone interested in military history, as it’s been restored to showcase its various functions from 1809 to 1947.

nps.gov; 1214 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

Dear Island Neighbors,

I hope your holidays were enjoyable and your new year is off to a very promising beginning.

The start of the year is a perfect time to make sure you’re on top of Town information. You can see the options, and sign up for them, at: https://sullivansisland.sc.gov/residents/town-notification-sign-ups . In particular, please note the Everbridge Emergency Notification System that sends text and/or email alerts concerning road closures, severe weather updates, emergency water main breaks, public works projects and other pertinent information.

Also, please make sure that our Water and Sewer Department has your current phone number for any needed emergency contact when you’re not home. They won’t be able to reach you if all they have is your former land line number, and if you’ve got water spewing from a busted pipe under your house, time is money. Please contact Mary Poole, our Administrative Specialist who handles water and sewer billing. You can call her at 843 883 5733 or email her at mpoole@sullivansisland.sc.gov .

2025 WAS A BUSY YEAR!

This is a logical time to look back on the last year and note the many accomplishments of our great Town staff. Needless to say, while we hit these milestones in 2025, most of them were the results of efforts begun in earlier years.

Flooding Prevention, Stormwater Management and Resilience:

Town Capital Improvements:

Budgeting Processes and Communication:

Public Safety:

Land Use and Natural Resources:

I’m looking forward to our 2026 accomplishments, but until then...

...see you around the Island!

Pat O’Neil Mayor

843-670-9266

oneilp@sullivansisland.sc.gov

South Carolina is often associated with headline destinations like Charleston and Myrtle Beach, but beyond those familiar names lies a collection of towns that quietly deliver just as much character and cultural depth. These overlooked communities offer travelers a chance to experience the state at a slower, more personal pace while still enjoying meaningful attractions, local history, and memorable scenery. From coastal fishing villages to mountain foothill towns, each place tells a different story about South Carolina’s past and present. Many of these towns reward visitors with walkable downtowns, preserved historic sites, and locally owned restaurants that reflect regional traditions. For travelers who value authenticity, fewer crowds, and destinations that feel genuinely lived in, these South Carolina towns are well worth the detour.

Landrum

Landrum is a small foothills town that serves as a gateway to outdoor exploration while maintaining a distinctly relaxed pace. The walkable downtown features antique stores, cafes, and galleries that invite visitors to browse without crowds. One of these examples, Stone Soup Market & Cafe, is a locally favored establishment serving up American cuisine from breakfast to dinner. One of the area’s most notable landmarks is Campbell’s Covered Bridge, a short drive from town and one of the last remaining covered bridges in South Carolina. Nature-focused travelers are also drawn to nearby hiking areas such as the Blue Wall Nature Preserve, where trails offer scenic views and quieter access to the Blue Ridge foothills.

Seasonal festivals and farmers' markets like Hogback Mountain Day highlight regional crafts and local food, giving visitors a chance to connect with the community. Landrum’s location near the North Carolina border also makes it a convenient stop for road trippers exploring the Carolinas. Landrum is worth visiting because it pairs outdoor access with small-town hospitality, offering an alternative to more commercial mountain destinations.

McClellanville

McClellanville is a working fishing village that offers a rare glimpse into South Carolina’s coastal traditions without the polish of a resort town. Shrimp boats line Jeremy Creek, giving visitors a firsthand look at the seafood industry that still anchors the local economy. A visit to the McClellanville Historic District reveals well-preserved homes and churches that date back to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, offering insight into the town’s seafaring past.

Nature lovers are drawn to the nearby Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can explore coastal ecosystems through wildlife viewing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Local dining is another highlight, with restaurants like T.W. Graham & Co. serving fresh seafood that reflects the day’s catch. McClellanville is worth visiting for travelers seeking a genuine Lowcountry experience that feels rooted in tradition rather than tourism trends.

Edisto Island

Offering a coastal experience that feels intentionally preserved, Edisto Island is especially appealing to travelers who want nature, history, and local culture without heavy development. One of the island’s main attractions is Edisto Beach State Park, where visitors can access quiet beaches, walk through maritime forests, and use well-maintained trails for hiking and biking. The park also features educational programs that highlight coastal ecosystems, making it a rewarding stop beyond simple beach time. History plays a strong role on the island, particularly at the Edisto Island Museum, which explores Gullah Geechee heritage, plantation life, and the island’s Reconstruction era through thoughtfully curated exhibits.

For outdoor exploration, the surrounding creeks and tidal waterways are ideal for kayaking and wildlife viewing, with dolphins and coastal birds frequently spotted. Food-focused travelers will appreciate the island’s connection to the sea, with stops like Whaley’s Restaurant & Bar offering locally sourced seafood that reflects daily catches. To grasp a better feel for the local cuisine, stop by Kings Farm Market, a grocery store with locally farmed items and pies and desserts worthy of a trip. Edisto Island is worth visiting because it prioritizes authenticity over convenience, allowing travelers to slow down, learn about Lowcountry history, and enjoy South Carolina’s coast in a way that feels grounded and intentional rather than commercialized.

Beaufort

Beaufort stands out as one of South Carolina’s most historically rich coastal towns, offering travelers an experience that blends preserved architecture, waterfront scenery, and meaningful cultural context. The Beaufort Historic District is central to the town’s appeal, where visitors can walk beneath moss-draped oaks and view antebellum homes that reflect Beaufort’s role during the Civil War and Reconstruction. History is further explored at the John Mark Verdier House, which provides guided tours that explain daily life in the early nineteenth century and the impact of wartime occupation. Along the water, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park offers scenic views of the Beaufort River and serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Beaufort also works well as a base for exploring Hunting Island State Park, where travelers can climb the historic lighthouse, enjoy uncrowded beaches, and walk maritime forest trails. Dining in Beaufort highlights Lowcountry flavors, with restaurants emphasizing fresh seafood and regional recipes. Beaufort is worth visiting because it delivers depth and walkability, allowing travelers to engage with coastal history while enjoying easy access to nature and a strong local food scene.

Pendleton

Pendleton is a small town that offers a concentrated dose of Upstate South Carolina history and walkable charm. Its historic town square is anchored by buildings that date back to the late eighteenth century, including Ashtabula, one of the state’s oldest surviving homes. The Woodburn Historic House, also known as The Woodburn Plantation, provides a deeper context for early settlement and agricultural life in the region.

Pendleton’s proximity to Clemson University adds subtle energy while keeping the town itself calm and uncrowded. Visitors can enjoy local cafes and antique shops before heading to nearby Lake Hartwell for boating and outdoor recreation. Pendleton is worth visiting for those interested in early American history, paired with small-town accessibility and easy access to both cultural and natural attractions.

Laurens

Laurens offers a compelling travel experience rooted in Revolutionary War history and a steadily revitalized downtown district. The town’s historical narrative is best explored at the Laurens County Museum, which documents Indigenous history, early settlement, and industrial growth through curated exhibits. Just outside town, the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site allows visitors to walk interpretive trails and learn about one of the region’s most important Revolutionary War battles.

Downtown Laurens has become a destination in its own right, anchored by community events and local businesses throughout the year. Locales like The Artist's Co-op provide a glimpse into the art of local artists, with the help of volunteers who unite the community. Nearby, Lake Rabon offers a boat ramp, fishing pier, picnic shelters, and more to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors. The town is worth visiting because it balances historical depth with visible renewal, offering visitors a chance to experience a place that honors its past while actively shaping its future.

Hartsville

Shaped by education, green space, and a growing arts presence, Hartsville offers travelers a well-rounded small-town experience that goes beyond a quick stop. The influence of Coker University is visible throughout town, contributing to cultural programming, events, and a youthful but balanced energy. One of Hartsville’s most notable attractions is Kalmia Gardens, a protected natural area featuring walking trails, seasonal blooms, and native plant species that highlight the Pee Dee region’s ecology.

For those interested in local history and creativity, the Hartsville Museum provides insight into the town’s development, while the restored Center Theater hosts films, performances, and community events that anchor downtown life. Hartsville’s manageable size and thoughtful mix of attractions make it especially appealing for travelers who enjoy college town culture without the congestion of larger cities. It is worth visiting for its blend of education, nature, and arts, all woven into a town that feels active yet comfortably paced.

Garden City

Rather than competing with nearby resort hubs, Garden City succeeds by offering a calmer, more approachable version of South Carolina’s coast. The town centers around the Garden City Pier, a longtime gathering place where visitors can fish, enjoy live music, or take in sweeping ocean views without the crowds typical of larger beachfront destinations. The shoreline itself feels more residential, attracting travelers who value space, walkability, and a quieter atmosphere. Just a short drive away, the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk expands dining options with waterfront restaurants known for fresh seafood and Lowcountry staples. Here, you can also explore Brookgreen Gardens, a botanical garden with life-sized sculptures and a zoo with local animals.

Outdoor recreation plays a major role here, with opportunities for paddleboarding, fishing charters, and dolphin watching in the surrounding marshes and tidal creeks. Before leaving, be sure to stop by The Gulf Stream Cafe, a seafood and steak eatery with live music and seasonal oyster roasts. Garden City is especially appealing for families and couples who want coastal amenities without an overly commercial setting. It is worth visiting because it delivers a classic beach experience that feels relaxed and lived in, offering both recreation and downtime in equal measure.

Sullivan's Island

Positioned just outside Charleston, Sullivan’s Island offers a refined coastal escape where history, community, and natural beauty intersect. The island’s past is deeply embedded in its landscape, particularly at Fort Moultrie, where visitors can explore exhibits detailing centuries of military history from the Revolutionary War through the twentieth century. For those looking to take in the historic feel, visit the Edgar Allen Poe Library, a small branch library located in historic Battery Gadsden, a former military battery. Sullivan's Island Beach is another major draw, known for its wide shoreline, gentle waves, and notably uncrowded feel compared to nearby alternatives. Exploring the island by bike is popular, with flat roads and dedicated paths connecting residential areas to the waterfront.

Along Middle Street, visitors will find a curated mix of restaurants and casual eateries that prioritize quality and local ingredients rather than volume, such as Poe's Tavern, a popular restaurant named after the literary figure. Architectural preservation and zoning limits have helped maintain the island’s character, giving it a cohesive and intentional feel. Sullivan’s Island is worth visiting for travelers who want a coastal destination that offers more than scenery, combining walkable beaches, thoughtful dining, and meaningful historical context in one compact setting.

South Carolina’s overlooked towns reveal a side of the state that rewards curiosity and intentional travel. These destinations offer more than scenic backdrops, providing meaningful experiences rooted in history, local culture, and everyday life. Whether it is walking through a preserved historic district, exploring coastal wildlife refuges, or supporting locally owned businesses, each town invites visitors to engage more deeply with their surroundings. By venturing beyond the most publicized destinations, travelers gain a richer understanding of South Carolina’s regional diversity. These towns prove that some of the most memorable journeys come from places that quietly excel, offering authenticity, accessibility, and a strong sense of place.

Ask any Charlestonian about their preferred local beach, and there’s a good chance they’ll immediately dive into the attributes of Sullivan’s Island. As a former resident of the Holy City, I can attest to the fact that this slice of paradise is one of the Lowcountry’s best places to go for a large dose of rest, relaxation, and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality.

“It's seen hundreds of years of American history (Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is at one end of the island), has beautiful public beaches, and is home to some of the area's best restaurants that are located just a short walk from the sand,” says Elizabeth Rhodes, special projects editor at Travel + Leisure and South Carolina native. That first-rate roster of restaurants includes The Longboard, Sullivan's Fish Camp, High Thyme, Home Team BBQ, and Poe’s Tavern.

While its culinary footprint may be impressive, it’s even more admirable when you consider the size of the island itself. “Sullivan’s Island is only 2.5 miles long, so it’s quite smaller than most people think,” says Ben Towill, co-founder of Basic Projects, a Charleston-based hospitality and design firm he runs with his wife, Kate. Small it may be, but its glorious scenery, family-friendly atmosphere, and unique local businesses create an inviting beach town experience that should be on every traveler’s to-do list when in Charleston.

Read on to start planning your trip to Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina.

Where to Stay

Rhodes notes there are “no hotels or major chains” on the island, so finding accommodations through Airbnb, Vrbo, or another short-term rental service will be your best bet. Below, we rounded up a few of the area’s top-rated properties.

Up to 10 guests can make this four-bedroom, three-bath property their Sullivan’s Island home away from home. The open floor plan, gourmet kitchen, full-sized ping pong table, outdoor shower, and easy access to the beach make it ideal for large family gatherings, especially those with little kids in tow.

If something smaller is more your speed, take a look at this one-bedroom condo overlooking Sullivan’s Island’s hub of activity. At this rental, location is everything; you can walk to the shops, restaurants, and the beach—you’ll only have to get in your car if you need to go to the grocery store or want to explore the neighboring communities.

Best Things to Do

Beach days are always on the schedule on Sullivan’s Island, even when the temperatures fall below 70. The beaches are “perfectly secluded during the off-season,” says Rhodes, and you can snuggle up with a picnic basket, blanket, and book before watching the sunset. Public beach access points can be found all along the south side of the island.

Kate Towill, who recommends Sealand Adventure Sports for bike rentals, says her typical route involves the following: “You can start with a quick bike ride through town, and then we love going through the neighborhoods. We then head over to the Breach Inlet to Isle of Palms and loop back to Sullivan’s to grab a seat on the patio of Sullivan’s Fish Camp.”

You can’t go inside Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, also known as “Charleston Light,” but it makes for a great photo opp. It’s also easy to spot, thanks to its two black and white color blocks and its position near Station 18 (a public beach access spot).

Part history lesson, part scenic stop, Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is a must-do for anyone looking for an educational activity in the area. Its roots go back to the 1700s, but today’s fort has been restored to show different periods between 1809 and 1947. “We love walking the perimeter of the park, which is filled with beautiful wildflowers, and then looping back toward the ocean where you can see Fort Sumter,” says Kate Towill.

On the hottest summer days, the only thing that can bring any relief—besides a dip in the ocean—is an extra-cold drink. And on Sullivan’s Island, that means heading to The Co-Op. “The Co-Op is a must for stocking up on frosé,” says Rhodes, referring to the popular frozen alcoholic beverage the cafe is popular for. Pro tip: It’s best served alongside one of the in-house gourmet breakfast or lunch sandwiches.

Best Restaurants

“Home Team is a great casual spot, perfect for families or large groups of friends. Whether you're coming off the beach after a long day in the sun or heading out to the Island for an early dinner, their famous Gameghangers are not to be missed,” says Ben. If you do choose to indulge in a Gamechanger, proceed with caution: Its strength shouldn’t be underestimated.

“Poe's Tavern—inspired by poet Edgar Allen Poe, who was stationed on Sullivan's Island during his stint in the military—serves up delicious burgers and perfectly crispy hand-cut fries,” says Rhodes. When the weather permits, grab a table out front or on the porch, where you can appreciate the liveliness of Middle Street.

For “a more refined dinner option on the island,” Rhodes suggests The Obstinate Daughter. A Southern restaurant with Italian, Spanish, and French influences, its menu consists of items like grilled octopus, peel-and-eat shrimp, ricotta gnocchi, and housemade pizzas. Due to its popularity, a reservation is highly recommended.

Sullivan’s Fish Camp’s history on the island stretches back to 1988. The restaurant is the sibling property of Charleston’s Basic Kitchen and Post Inn in Mount Pleasant—from the Towills’ company, Basic Projects—but it stands on its own in terms of its narrative and menu offerings. Highlights include jalapeño and gouda hushpuppies, the Fish Camp Sandwich, and the frozen piña colada. Kate Towill also recommends the New England lobster roll.

Ben Towill describes High Thyme as a “local spot with a laid-back atmosphere and delicious American fare dishes.” Think shrimp and grits, seared scallops, and pan-fried crab and shrimp cakes, all washed down with a selection of beer, wine, and specialty cocktails. Note that High Thyme doesn’t take reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Best Shopping

Local art makes for a great souvenir or present for a loved one, and Sandpiper Gallery offers an impressive selection of paintings, jewelry, pottery, and other pieces made in a variety of mediums. It’s also conveniently located next door to Home Team BBQ and Mex 1 Coastal Cocina.

It’s hard to walk into Goldbug and not leave with something in hand, especially if you’re looking for something shiny or sparkly. Along with her locally made jewelry, owner and designer Ashley Reid Martin curates a tempting selection of swimwear, resort wear, beauty products, greeting cards, and candles, among other items.

Travelers who prefer active vacations to reading a book on the beach will more than appreciate Sealand Adventure Sports’ inventory. The kite, surf, skate, and paddle shop provides a range of rentals—including beach cruisers, beach chairs, and beach umbrellas—and carries apparel brands like Roxy, Huk, and O’Neill.

Best Time to Visit

Summer on Sullivan’s Island is definitely a crowd favorite, so you’ll want to plan your visit accordingly. “Sullivan's Island gets incredibly busy during the weekends once the weather warms up. I recommend visiting during the weekdays to avoid the crowds of locals who flock here during the weekends,” recommends Rhodes. If you want to avoid peak season—and have an easier time parking—consider the fall. “Late fall is idyllic on Sullivan’s. The mornings are brisk, and the beach is filled with locals walking their dogs,” says Ben Towill. “In late October, you’ll also start to see monarch butterflies migrating to the coast, which is pretty incredible.” Another sign of autumn? The blooming pink muhly grass, a sight that begs to be photographed.

How to Get There

“Sullivan’s Island is the closest beach from downtown Charleston, about 15 to 20 minutes [away],” says Kate Towill. This convenient proximity makes it a great day trip from the peninsula; just be sure to head out on the earlier side if you want a better chance of finding a parking space. If you’re coming straight from Charleston International Airport (CHS), though, it’ll only take about 35 minutes, depending on traffic.

How to Get Around

Driving isn’t a prerequisite for exploring Sullivan’s Island. Instead, you can take advantage of the sidewalks and paved bike paths, which allow pedestrians and bikers to easily get around, or rent a golf cart. If you choose the latter option, be sure to have a thorough understanding of where you can and cannot drive on the island.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND — Running low on gunpowder, Col. William Moultrie’s men timed their cannon fire carefully on June 28, 1776.

From behind the walls of a makeshift fortress made of palmetto logs and damp sand, the soldiers of the Continental Army’s 2nd South Carolina Regiment fought back the well-armed ships of the British Royal Navy.

And against all odds, they won.

America’s first decisive victory against British forces is a well-known story among South Carolina natives and locals. Now the Battle of Sullivan’s Island is commemorated in a new documentary produced in time for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

“The Battle of Sullivan’s Island,” produced by Wide Awake Films and commissioned by South Carolina 250, premiered Nov. 6 to a packed house at the Charleston Library Society.

“Our team is dedicated to creating media that breathes new life into stories from the past and hopefully spurs new generations to get hooked on history. That's our mission,” said Shane Seley, founder of Wide Awake Films.

The 13-minute short film is available for free on the S.C. American Revolution 250 Commission YouTube channel. The documentary depicts the battle that proved to British forces that they wouldn’t easily lay siege to Charleston. The triumph is celebrated each year Carolina Day on June 28.

It took over a year to produce as the filmmakers poured over maps and books, researched period-specific military uniforms and consulted with historians. Rob Shenk, an SC 250 board member and chief content officer for Wide Awake Films, said the goal was to create an accurate retelling of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island and the critical moments that led Moultrie and his regiment to victory — and bring the story of this early American victory into the mainstream.

“This film was built to kind of build awareness, to be a vanguard, to help people to understand this important moment in our history,” Shenk said.

In the weeks leading up to the battle, Moultrie’s men constructed a fort with palmetto logs and sand. Though some had wavering faith in the makeshift fortress (Maj. Gen. Charles Lee dubbed it a “slaughtering pen”), the logs proved incredibly useful at absorbing blows from British cannonballs.

But that wasn’t the only reason for the American’s success.

The British Royal Navy hired local Black harbor pilots to guide their warships through the Charleston Harbor. With Moultrie’s regiment vastly outnumbered, the ships approached Sullivan’s Island in a major show of force against the American soldiers.

A trio of ships, the Sphinx, Syren and Actaeon, were dispatched by British Maj. Gen. Henry Clinton. They were to sail behind the fort. In their attempt to flank Moultrie’s troops, the three ships ran onto a hidden shoal. With these ships stuck on a sandbar, the soldiers on Sullivan’s Island only had the handful of warships on the British mainlines to focus on.

“Those three ships were trying to flank and provide enfilading fire down the side of the fort,” said historian Doug MacIntyre. “If they had succeeded in that, we would have lost, basically, because his men would not have been able to withstand that and fight.”

Still, the 2nd Regiment was extremely low on gunpowder and fired at the enemy ships only once every 10 minutes. Though the American blows were accurate, severely wounding British soldiers manning the ships and significantly damaging their artillery, a lone blow from a Royal cannon knocked down the fort’s flag.

The liberty flag, indigo-hued and bearing a white crescent, toppled from the fort. Sgt. William Jasper refused to continue the fight without the flag and successfully evaded enemy fire to retrieve it. He secured it once more over the fort — signaling to the British forces that the battle was not yet over.

As the sun set on June 28, a delivery of over 500 pounds of gunpowder arrived. The delivery from South Carolina president John C. Rutledge arrived at a critical time and gave Moultrie’s men the necessary power to deliver the final blows to the British. Clinton’s ships surrendered shortly after.

“The absolute victory for the Americans was a disgraceful disaster for the British. Following their defeat at Sullivan’s Island, the British military had no base for southern operations,” MacIntyre said. “They realized claiming Charleston and the South would not be easy.”

Despite British weaponry outnumbered the Americans’ 8 to 1, the British saw far more casualties than the Patriots. The 2nd Regiment reported 37 dead and wounded soldiers after the battle, compared to the 200-plus dead and injured soldiers recorded by the British. One Royal Navy soldier wrote that they “have never had such a drubbing” in their lives, describing the unexpected defeat.