Sullivan's Island- Happening Place to Be

By Kara Partelow

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, SC-- Whether your day is comprised of drinks with friends at one of the many popular restaurants, or a relaxing day at the beach, Sullivan’s Island will not disappoint. Driving over the Ben Sawyer bridge, you enter charming Sullivan’s Island. Tucked away from busier parts of Charleston, Sullivan’s Island is home to many attractive amenities that are suitable for people of all ages, both natives and vacationers.

Sullivan’s Island has preserved its simplicity over the years by maintaining laid-back southern traditions. With a population of approximately 2000, and number of houses nearly half that, Sullivan’s residents keep their community tightly knit. With the allure of the simple life, Sullivan’s Island has attracted many affluent people. Former wife of the Governor of South Carolina Jenny Sanford has maintained occupancy on the island. Actors Reese Witherspoon and Bill Murray have also made homes on Sullivan’s.

Middle Street, the main drag on the island, is located only one block shy from beach front offers an array of various cuisine, unique gift shops, and low country art galleries. From 2209 Middle Street up to 2263 Middle Street you can expect to find cuisine ranging from all ends of the spectrum.

Dunleavy’s Pub guarantees a perfectly poured Guinness and authentic Irish fish and chips. Directly next door, Seel’s On Sullivan’s Fish Camp and Bar is known for their fresh seafood and frozen Vodka Red Bull slushies. When dining on Sullivan’s Island, one must be careful not to leave out Poe’s Tavern named after the late poet Edgar Allan Poe. Whether you chose the Annabelle Lee or the Pit & Pendulum, these burgers will be as delightful as the short stories they were coined after.

With the long standing history that Sullivan’s Island has, Fort Moultrie National Monument is a must-see. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and with only a small fee of $1 for individuals, and $5 for families, Fort Moultrie is an inexpensive and interesting way to spend a few hours on Sullivan’s Island. As the base of command for the defense of the City of Charleston, Fort Moultrie once served as the site of a major battle between Confederate and Union troops during the American Revolution. Sullivan’s Island preserved a multitude of fortifications, from original cannons that were used defend the coast from troops at Fort Sumter to standing brick walls from the original acropolis. When leaving Fort Moultrie, make sure to stop in the gift shop directly across from the parking lot at the site.