There is no doubt that Sullivan’s Island is one of our favorite beach towns in the Lowcountry. It offers a fun quaint downtown experience, a beautiful beach to hang out on, and enough history to keep your high school teacher occupied for well over a semester. 

Conveniently located just minutes from our downtown Charleston HQ, Sullivan's always seems to move at a little bit slower and more relaxing pace. (Especially during those sleepy fall and winter months). While it's just a short drive from downtown, once you arrive on the island you seem like you've entered a far away land built upon relaxation and recreation.

To get ready for our Fall'19 launch, we invited a few of our friends out to Sullivan's to put our new gear to the test and enjoy a day lost on island time. Along the way, we pulled together a list of a few of our favorite fall time things to do while on the Sully's.

Here's our working list. Feel free to let us know what we're missing. 

 

 

1. Best Dog Park Ever:

Enjoy early morning and late afternoon dog walking heaven down the beach. Hours vary between summer and fall. All dogs must have a valid Sullivan’s Island permit. Learn more about the doggo rules here. 

 

 

2. Cruise Down Middle Street:


Meander down Middle Street. Along the way, stop into a few of our favorite spots including: Home Team BBQ, the Co-Op, Mex 1, and of course the Obstinate Daughter. Additionally, while you're down in the town center, you'll discover plenty of places to grab snacks, meals, and last minute beach supplies for the day. There's also a gas station located on the island that is a little more expensive, but is a good place to pick up some cold ones. But not so fast with those cold ones, there is a no drinking alcohol rule on the beach. So take that with a grain of salt... errr should we say sand. Don't forget to bring our bamboo fishing shirts!

 



3. Explore the Marsh:


Beached out? Most likely doubtful, but still... there are multiple put-in points along the marsh side of Sullivan’s that give you easy access to wet a line and enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating. Check the tides for the best fishing and paddling experience. We use the Tide Graph app. 

 

 

4. Hit the Streets:


Get lost wandering and dreaming down the sleepy neighborhood streets shaded under large Cypress Trees and lined with beautiful houses and architecture. Pro-tip: ditch the car and bring a beach cruiser to add to the exploring experience. If you're exploring the streets, wear our comfortable 

 



5. Get Educated:


Dust off the ole' history book and head over to Fort Moultrie. This is actually the place that inspired the state flag and the nickname for South Carolina: "the Palmetto State." Here you'll learn about the American seacoast defense history that ranges from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War 1 and World War 2. Pretty wild, I know. 

 

 

6. Take a Hike:


Get off the beaten path and hike along Sullivan's Island Nature Trail. Located by Station 16, this short .06 mile hike provides an unique island experience and a nice way to spend the morning or late afternoon. Most likely you'll have the trail to yourself minus the occasional local lizard or marsh rabbit that runs about. 



 

7. Beach and Chill:


Grab a book, blanket, warm drink, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your favorite station on the beach. Beach access points are located every block along the length of the island. The further you go left or right down the beach, the less crowded it is.

Pro tip: Kick plastic and swap your single use cups for YETI rambler. 

 

 

8. Catch the Waves and Wind:


On a good day, the swell can bring in a decent set of waves for surfing, and the steady winds near the inlet are a kiteboarder’s dream. If the weather is right and you forgot your gear, never fear, as rentals are available on the island. Conveniently located next to an ice cream shop. Dangerous, I know. Keep an eye on the surf with the Surfline app.


 

9. Boat to Backyard:


We'd be lying if we didn't admit it's pretty amazing to have a friend that has a place on the island. If you're one of those lucky few, then you best be inviting your friends, family, and us over for a good ole' fashion Lowcountry boil. Here's our recipe. 

 

 

10. Get on Island Time:


Not necessarily something to do... but certainly a pro trip: Plan to stay around Sully's all day. If you get there before 10:30 a.m. and leave around 6:30 p.m., you're not going to run into any traffic, and you'll probably have had one heck of a day. If you try to drive anywhere in between those times, you're going to have to deal with traffic especially in peak seasons.

Are we missing your favorite thing to do on Sullivan's? Let us know and leave a comment below.