The beach may be the centerpiece of fun on Sullivan’s Island, but there are plenty of other opportunities to play on and off shore whatever your age and interests. Here are some outdoor activities to add to your vacation itinerary:
Paddleboarding – Take a two-hour paddleboard tour of the marshes and creeks around Sullivan’s Island with Sealand Adventure Sports. During your paddle, you’re likely to see an array of wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins who feed in the local waters. The outfitter also offers rentals if you want to set out on your own.
Biking – Sullivan’s Island is known for its laid-back vibe and that extends to the streets of this South Carolina beach town. Enjoy a relaxing ride with the kids on the paved back roads from Fort Moultrie to the Breach Inlet bridge that crosses into the Isle of Palms. If you don’t have your own bikes you can rent a beach cruiser from Sealand Adventure Sports. These bikes are also great for riding along the shoreline. If you’d rather explore the island without pedaling, rent an electric power bike from the shop.
Fishing – Surrounded by water, Sullivan’s Island is a popular destination for saltwater fishing. Breach Inlet’s fish funnel and the marshes and creeks on the backside of the island are prime grounds for inshore game fishing with plenty of structures where fish feed. Several area fishing charters offer excursions to the Intracoastal Waterway, lush marsh estuaries and Charleston Harbor. Targeted species include redfish, spotted seatrout, flounder, sheepshead, black drum and sharks. Or simply take your rod out to the beach and try your luck at surf fishing.
Watersports – If you’ve ever watched a kiteboarder catch air off a wave and have dreamed of trying it yourself, Sullivan’s Island is the place to go for it. Sealand Adventure Sports offers a three-hour introductory course led by Pan American Surf Association (PASA) trained instructors. For more extensive instruction, try the six- or eight-hour class. Prefer a more traditional surfing experience? Sealand also has surfboards for rent.
Nature Walk – Located off Atlantic Street next to Station 16, the .6-mile Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail offers a boardwalk and sandy path through 190 acres of protected maritime forest that runs along the beach from Station 12 to Station 29. Along the trail, you’ll find quiet spots to meditate and observe nature, with the trail ending at a secluded beach.
Parks – Sullivan’s Island is home to several community parks where you can take the kids to burn off some energy. The biggest of these is J. Marshall Stith Park featuring a large playground and toddler park, tennis courts, a soccer field, a basketball court and the town’s iconic gazebo.
