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Located at the entrance to Charleston Harbor, Sullivan’s Island, SC is a quiet, seaside hamlet. Very few short-term rentals are available on the island, with most full and part-time residents enjoying the tranquil, secluded environment that is Sullivan Island. Original zoning restrictions mandated that lots be no less than ½ acre in size, with this restriction remaining in place today. This restriction ensures that the quaint island community does not become overpopulated and overdeveloped. Home to approximately 1,900 people, Sullivan’s Island is only a short drive away from the shopping, jobs and cultural opportunities in Charleston.

Sullivan’s Island History

The history of Sullivan’s Island begins in the era of British colonization. Sullivan’s Island was the main disembarkation point of slaves trafficked to the British North American colonies using the Middle Passage. Historians estimate that nearly half of all African-Americans can trace their lineage back to an ancestor who passed through Sullivan’s Island.

One of the most significant historical events to take place in the Carolinas occurred on Sullivan’s Island during the Revolutionary War. On June 28, 1776, colonists held their own in a makeshift fort against British forces under Lord Cornwallis attempting to enter the harbor to invade Charleston. The spongy palmetto logs used to build the makeshift fort proved to be remarkably spongy and absorbed the shock of the cannon balls. The white palmetto tree found on the South Carolina flag commemorates this heroic battle. Every year on June 28, the battle is commemorated as Carolina Day.

For a great deal of time, Moultrieville, on the southwest half of the island, was the primary community on the island. Moultrieville later merged with another community, Atlanticville, to form the Town of Sullivan's Island.

A lighthouse for the modern era, Charleston Light, was erected in 1962. To get to the top of this 140-foot-tall triangular building, one must take an elevator instead of the typical spiral staircase.

The Town of Sullivan's Island made headlines in 2006, becoming the first South Carolina municipality to ban smoking in all public places.

Sullivan’s Island Local Events

There are a variety of local events on Sullivan’s Island. This picturesque Lowcountry enclave is the perfect backdrop to these family events. Check out this list of Sullivan’s Island events.

For a complete list of events in the area visit the events calendar by clicking here

Sullivan’s Island Attractions

Sullivan’s Island is rich in history, and the attractions on Sullivan’s Island reflect its pivotal role in many of this nation’s conflicts from American Revolution and Civil War, to World War II. Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan’s Island, is a part of Fort Sumter National Monument. Accessible by car, Fort Moultrie’s facilities include a visitor center where you can learn about the history of American seacoast defenses.

For more information on Sullivan's Island SC visit the official website by clicking here

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