Guest Author - Jessica Hoffmann
With most beloved beach locations running the gamut from too crowded, yet urban to too quiet, yet peaceful, Sullivan’s Island may just be the perfect combination of local charm and metropolitan style. With posh Charleston just 10 miles away, Sullivan’s Island rests close to city amenities and a convenient airport. But, since the island lacks high rise hotels, the beach is delightfully void of congestion and each street has a wonderful neighborhood vibe.
As you head to Sullivans from Mount Pleasant, you pass over the swing span Ben Sawyer Bridge, which has recently undergone a major renovation. This bridge suffered damage due to Hurricane Hugo in 1989, but has long been a charming landmark of the area as it swings open to allow boats to pass through the Intracoastal Waterway.
Once on the island, you will quickly arrive at the intersection of Middle Street and Station 22, where popular Dunleavy’s Pub serves cold pints of Guinness. Nearby Poe’s Tavern plays up the island’s intertwined history with Edgar Allen Poe, and is a great place to grab fish tacos or a Pit and Pendulum Sandwich. Down the street, Sullivan’s Restaurant is a classic spot for fried and steamed seafood. My favorite restaurant on the island hands down is Atlanticville, which lies southwest of the main commercial area of the island, but is well-known and loved by locals for Sunday Brunch and Thai Tuesdays.
Visitors should head further south on the island to visit Fort Moultrie. This military fort dates back to the Revolutionary War and hosted Edgar Allen Poe for a stint. This end of the island provides excellent views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter, and is a less crowded area for walking dogs since dangerous currents prohibit swimming in certain areas.
The north end of Sullivan’s Island overlooks Breach Inlet and Isle of Palms. This is a great place to see dolphins and small sharks, thanks to strong currents between the two islands. Slip over to Isle of Palms and have a cocktail on the roof of The Boathouse for unbelievable sunset views. The Boathouse serves excellent seafood with a casual, but sophisticated grace.
Sullivan’s Island remains firmly planted at the top of my list of favorite East Coast beaches, and promises to keep its casual, lowcountry charm and neighborhood feel for generations to come.
