Car Accident Attorney inSullivan's Island, SC

Visiting South Carolina is like stepping into a welcomed tapestry of history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. From the charming cobblestone streets of Charleston to the breathtaking vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this vibrant state offers many experiences for every type of traveler. With its vibrant cities, quaint towns, and welcoming locals, South Carolina invites visitors to embrace its Southern charm and create memories that will last a lifetime. With a state with as much diversity and offerings as South Carolina, it’s no wonder we’ve chosen one of its small towns to feature in our Small Town Getaways series. Are you ready to explore all of the things to do in Sullivan’s Island?

Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, is a quaint barrier island at the entrance of the Charleston Harbor with just shy of 2,000 residents. There is such a refreshing variety of things to do, you’ll never have a dull moment. Originally named O’Sullivan’s Island, this captivating destination harmoniously blends the rich heritage of the South with the idyllic charm of a coastal getaway. As soon as you step foot onto these shores, you’ll be captivated by the beauty and serene nature that encapsulates the island.

Do you love visiting and learning all about America’s small towns? Take our interactive quiz to discover which Small Town Getaway you should take this year.

Weekend Getaway To Sullivan's Island, South Carolina

Is Sullivan’s Island Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Sullivan’s Island is definitely worth visiting for its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and relaxed coastal vibes. Once you figure out what to do on Sullivan’s Island, there will never be a dull moment.

How To Get To Sullivan’s Islan

Getting Around Sullivan’s Islan

Best Time To Visit Sullivan’s Island

While the best time of year to visit Sullivan’s Island depends on personal preference, we’re here as your premier Sullivan’s Island travel guide to help you choose what season is best for you. No matter the season, activities in Sullivan’s Island are aplenty, so let’s get to it!

Where To Stay In Sullivan’s Island

Whether you’re seeking beachfront properties with stunning views or a quaint getaway with a touch of Southern hospitality, Sullivan’s Island has options to cater to various tastes. As far as Sullivan’s Island attractions go, sometimes it’s the accommodations that take the cake. What’s unique about choosing where to stay when on Sullivan’s Island is that there will be minimal if any, hotel or motel options. Your best bet is finding a charming home-away-from-home through VRBO.

Day One – A Few Local Favorites

Whether you’re taking a day trip to Sullivan’s Island or staying a weekend, we’ve come up with the best itinerary for you to consider. From finding out “what is Sullivan’s Island known for?” to exploring the beauty of the downtown Sullivan’s Island area, we have two full days of fun, sun, and delicious eats.

Day Two – Exploring The Coast

Visiting Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina is an experience of a lifetime. From sun-soaked days on the shore to immersing yourself in the island’s unique heritage, this small town offers a memorable coastal getaway for all who venture its way. Whether you’re strolling along its pristine beaches, exploring its historic landmarks like Fort Moultrie, or indulging in the local cuisine, the island offers a delightful escape from day-to-day life.

Also, you can keep learning about Sullivan’s Island courtesy of The Charleston Life’s YouTube video:

Are you ready to plan a day trip to Sullivan Island, South Carolina? Do you have your own list of things to do on Sullivan’s Island that you want to share with fellow travelers? Sound off in the comments section! Or if you want to keep learning about the best Small Town Getaways across the country, we have so many more for you to consider visiting.

Several Sullivan’s Island dog walkers and regulars are speaking up about their personal experiences with coyotes.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - Several Sullivan’s Island dog walkers and regulars are speaking up about their personal experiences with coyotes.

This comes a day after town officials reported five coyote-led attacks involving dogs within the month of August.

They say the wild animals has been approaching people, dogs and roaming open areas of the beach more often than usual.

The Jourdan family says they experienced a too-close encounter with a coyote over the weekend.

“They were out halfway to the water, from the dune, so middle of the beach. And they were attacked by coyotes,” Jourdan said.

Five-year-old Willie Nelson, the Jourdan family dog, was taken by two coyotes early Saturday morning while on a walk with a babysitter.

Jourdan says it happened in broad daylight and in the middle of the beach.

He adds the family was devastated by the loss of their “wonder dog.”

“I was trying to get closure for my family’s sake, for Willie, because we weren’t even there. Which was frustrating. I crawled on my belly for over four miles between stations 26 and 28,” Jourdan said.

The attack occurred at Station 27, a part of the beach several residents have called a “breeding ground” for coyote packs.

Officials with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources say the breed has been approaching people, dogs and roaming open areas of the beach more often.

They add that mid-summer and fall are peak active times for these animals, meaning it is when coyotes migrate to new spaces, feed and have young.

SCDNR officials say another reason for the increased interactions could be from them being opportunistic feeders, meaning they will be quick and take anything they need.

Others say they have been chased by coyotes in the past but escaped.

“We were walking in June when a coyote came out of the dunes and started chasing,” Sullivan’s regular Shelly Carson said. “I was able to chase it away, and it ran down the beach to chase a golden retriever.”

Now, they avoid the area altogether or take proactive measures to be able to walk safely.

“I’ve always known there are coyotes here,” Carson said. “Never seen one until this year. Really, March was the first time I had my first sighting and started carrying pepper spray on the beach. In June I started carrying a birdie alarm. And now I carry a stick with me too.”

Visitors are asking for help from officials to curb the problem.

“It’s close to our hearts, but the coyote system is unfortunately not something that is new, declining or lessened. Rather the opposite,” Jourdan said.

They ask for coyote population control, area management and listening to residential concerns.

Town officials say they do have systems in place to manage the problem, which include education, tracking, hazing and lethal control.

They ask anyone who experiences an encounter or sighting to report the problem immediately.

If you run into a coyote, you’re advised to react loudly, throw small sticks or cans or spray the animal with water.

For more information on coyotes along Sullivan’s Island, click here.

Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND — A newly formed development group plans to invest more than $30 million to acquire and renovate a 90-year-old, vacant private oceanfront club on this seaside enclave.

But elected officials want more details before signing off on allowing a commercial project in a residential area.

Sullivan’s Island Bathing Co. is asking the town to allow a members-only social venture called the Ocean Club at 1735 Atlantic Ave. as a conditional use in an area zoned for single-family homes.

Shep Davis, the development firm’s managing partner, pointed out last week that the property operated as a private club for close to a century without being open to island residents.

Under this latest proposal, they’ll have that option for the first time — at a cost of a $60,000 sign-up fee and an estimated $500 in monthly dues.

The property had been known for decades as the Sand Dunes Club. It was a private beachside retreat for employees of the former South Carolina Electric & Gas Co., which Dominion Energy acquired in early 2019 after the V.C. Summer nuclear plant debacle 18 months earlier.

The Richmond, Va.-based utility closed the property at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, and it never reopened, according to attorney Brian Hellman, a Sullivan’s resident who is representing the development group.

Built in 1933 for $14,000, the then 5,400-square-foot structure was called Jasper Hall, an officer’s club for military personnel stationed at nearby Fort Moultrie. SCE&G acquired it in the 1950s and expanded it over the years to just under 10,000 square feet.

Davis said the property has not been properly kept up for several years and is in disrepair.

One neighbor recently complained of the uncovered pool starting to smell and becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Hellman and Davis said the pool is being maintained.

$30 million-plus

Davis estimated it will take an investment of “in excess of $30 million” for his group to buy the property, overhaul the building and amenities and place a stormwater retention pond underground. Retrofitting the pool alone, he said could cost half a million dollars.

Real Estate

Improvement plans include offering separate pools for families and adults, upgrading the existing building and landscaping the parking area. The developers also would add a fitness center, dining terrace and gazebo along with a new entry area off a beach access path.

“We can preserve the building and re-create the club for its historical use,” Davis said.

Hellman said the current proposal comes after gathering input during several meetings with residents and town leaders over the past few months.

He said the private-membership venue will provide a place for homeowners to eat and exercise without having to drive off the island or jockey for tables with tourists at the restaurants in the town’s small business district.

“It will be a gathering place to socialize that won’t compete with beachgoers,” Hellman said. “Dining will not be open to the general public and will reduce the need for residents to leave the island.”

The 3.5-acre club site is owned by a company affiliated with Charleston real estate investor John Derbyshire, the former owner of the chain of Money Man Pawn shops. The firm paid Dominion $16.2 million for the property in 2022, according to Charleston County land records.

A large house is being built for Derbyshire, who plans to remain a partner in the project, on part of the property next to the club, according to Hellman.

Members matters

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The developer said the goal is that the Ocean Club will be open to all Sullivan’s residents who want to join. Davis estimated the venture will need at least 400 members to get the project off the ground.

The proposed Ocean Club would give priority to individuals and families who primarily reside on the island, said Jim Wanless, one of the partners. Off-island residents could join, too.

Real Estate

The proposed parking rules to allow a social club in a residential area require at least one parking space for every 10 memberships whose primary or secondary residences are within 2½ miles. Sixty percent of those spaces must be designated for golf carts and low-speed vehicles.

For members living outside the 2½-mile range, which is basically anyone who doesn’t live on Sullivan’s, one vehicle parking space would be required for every five memberships.

The rules also would require one bicycle space — through a rack or corral — for every 20 memberships.

“For whatever the number will be of those living off the island, they most certainly would come by car,” Davis said. “On-island residents would have much less need for parking” since they’d have the option to come by golf cart, bike or foot.

Tentative plans call for 50 car parking spaces, at least an equal number of golf cart spaces and “adequate” bicycle parking spaces, Hellman said.

Though the membership will be open to all island residents, the developers don’t expect everyone to join. They also have not set a cap on membership.

“We are trying to come up with the right number of members for the club without excluding property owners,” Davis said.

Talking to the town

During a public workshop last week, where a standing-room-only crowd spilled into the hallway, the developers addressed a list of written questions from elected officials, including the benefit to the town if the club is allowed.

Davis said, under the current zoning, the property could be sold for residential development that would allow three to five homes that could be taxed at the 4 percent rate if they are primary residences. If the club use is allowed, the developers will pay the 6 percent commercial property tax as well as licensing and permit fees.

Real Estate

The developers also said they won’t allow corporate memberships or agreements with hotels to provide dining or other services. In addition, no reciprocal-use deals with other private clubs are planned.

The projected hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday for interior services, with the earliest morning hours set aside for fitness activities. The club would be open until midnight on Friday and Saturday. Outdoor activities would be allowed 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day except until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Some island residents see the idea as another amenity for Sullivan’s while others are concerned about increased traffic and noise a club would bring to a residential area.

In letters to the town, supporters pointed to the property’s long history as a site for dining, fitness, sports, recreation and cultural, educational and social events. They said those uses should continue to be allowed.

Others said they’re against the rezoning to allow a restaurant or for it to become a for-profit entity.

Town Council is expected to discuss the issue further and take public input during its meeting Aug. 15. Mayor Patrick O’Neil cautioned the developers not to expect a quick decision.

“This council proceeds pretty deliberately,” he said.

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South Carolina is known for many things, from its Southern cuisine to historic cities, and of course, the stunning beaches. With magnificent waves and sandy coves, kayaking and boating, fishing and whale watching, these idyllic South Carolina beach towns are some of the best in the country. Whether you’re looking to relocate to South Carolina or are one of the many South Carolinians looking for a beachside property, you have plenty of towns to choose from.

But if you’re not sure what beach towns in South Carolina to check out, we’ve got you covered. From Charleston to Myrtle Beach, Redfin has compiled a list of the top 10 beach towns in South Carolina. Let’s explore some of the state’s top beaches, listed in alphabetical order, and you might just be tempted to move there.

#1: Charleston

Median home price: $522,495 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,707 Charleston, SC homes for sale Charleston, SC apartments for rent

First up on our list of coastal South Carolina cities is Charleston. The city of Charleston is home to roughly 151,600 people and sees countless visitors throughout the year. While there aren’t any beaches in Charleston proper, you’ll find there are many picturesque oceanfront spots to explore or take a drive to one of the nearby beaches. If you’re moving to Charleston, you can also see the houses along Rainbow Row, visit one of the many historic sites like Fort Sumter National Monument, and check out the vendors at Charleston City Market.

Interested in moving to the area?

Median home price: $565,000 Edisto Beach, SC homes for sale Edisto Beach, SC apartments for rent

Another one of South Carolina’s great beach towns to consider buying a home in is Edisto Beach. There are just about 1,000 residents, but there are plenty of beaches to visit, like Edisto Beach or Gray’s Beach. You can also camp at Edisto Beach State Park or have a meal at a waterfront spot, if you’re looking to explore the town.

#3: Folly Beach

Median home price: $645,000 Folly Beach, SC homes for sale Folly Beach, SC apartments for rent

Folly Beach is home to about 2,100 residents. There are lots of beaches to explore on a sunny South Carolina day, like its namesake Folly Beach. If you find yourself moving to Folly Beach, make sure to stop by the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve or explore Dunes House.

#4: Hilton Head Island

Median home price: $662,000 Hilton Head Island, SC homes for sale Hilton Head Island, SC apartments for rent

Home to beautiful beaches like Bradley Beach, Burkes Beach, Coligny Beach Park, Fish Haul Beach Park, Folly Field Beach, Singleton Beach, and South Beach, there are countless places to spend a beach day. With roughly 38,100 residents in Hilton Head Island, make sure to also explore Audubon Nature Preserve, golf at one of the courses, or visit the Coastal Discovery Museum.

#5: Isle of Palms

Median home price: $1,925,000 Isle of Palms, SC homes for sale Isle of Palms, SC apartments for rent

The quaint coastal town of Isle of Palms has about 4,300 residents, making it another great place to add to your list. You’ll find beautiful beaches such as Isle of Palms Beach, perfect for spending the day outside. In Isle of Palms, you can take a fishing charter trip, golf, or have lunch at a waterfront restaurant.

#6: Kiawah Island

Median home price: $1,242,500 Kiawah Island, SC homes for sale Kiawah Island, SC apartments for rent

Kiawah Island has about 2,000 residents and is a quaint beach town to consider renting or buying a house in. Some beaches you can visit are Beachwalker Park, Seabrook Beach, and West Beach. Whether you visit parks and nature preserves like Marsh View Tower and Maritime Forest Reserve & Nature Trail, there are many cool things to do and see in this beach town.

#7: Murrells Inlet

Median home price: $508,775 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,450 Murrells Inlet, SC homes for sale Murrells Inlet, SC apartments for rent

With a population of about 9,300, Murrells Inlet is a magnificent coastal area to live in. There are plenty of beaches to explore, including Love’s a Beach. If you find yourself moving to this beach town, make sure to stop by the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk or take a sunset boat cruise.

#8: Myrtle Beach

Median home price: $271,500 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,666 Myrtle Beach, SC homes for sale Myrtle Beach, SC apartments for rent

Myrtle Beach has stunning beaches such as 3rd Ave Public Beach and Myrtle Beach, great for enjoying a sunny day. Be sure to take a spin on the SkyWheel, play mini golf or check out one of the museums, and see a show or dinner theater once you move to Myrtle Beach.

#9: Seabrook Island

Median home price: $800,000 Seabrook Island, SC homes for sale Seabrook Island, SC apartments for rent

Just about 2,000 people live on Seabrook Island, private to residents and guests, where you’ll find beaches like Seabrook Island Beach. You’ll truly be living in the lap of luxury as Seabrook Island is a private oceanfront community, where membership to the Seabrook Island Club is needed to buy a home on the island. Some other fun activities to do on Seabrook Island include hiking along the Hidden Oaks Nature Trail, golfing at one of the two different courses, and enjoying the club amenities that come with your membership like fitness centers, dining options, racquet sports, and more.

#10: Sullivan’s Island

Median home price: $7,000,000 Sullivan’s Island, SC homes for sale Sullivan’s Island, SC apartments for rent

This seaside town has a population of 1,900 and there are numerous beaches to enjoy a picnic at. On Sullivan’s Island, you can visit Station 18 Beach, Station 28 1/2 Beach, and Sullivan’s Island Beach. There’s plenty to do on an afternoon or weekend, like hiking Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail, exploring Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, and stopping by the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse.

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the beach towns in South Carolina. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during June 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com June 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD) – The South Carolina Circuit Court has ruled to preserve the Sullivan’s Island Maritime Forest. This comes after the town’s previous council approved a settlement agreement that would allow development to take place where the forest currently sits.

The circuit court ruled in favor of the Town of Sullivan’s Island’s request to invalidate the settlement agreement that was agreed upon by the previous town council.

“I was thrilled,” Sullivan’s Island resident Cyndy Ewing said. “It’s a monumental ruling.”

Many Sullivan’s Island neighbors and elected officials are pleased with the ruling that will protect the island’s 200-acre maritime forest from development.

“The judge agreed that that agreement was not legal under state law,” Sullivan’s Island Mayor Patrick O’Neil said. “And one main issue there was that one sitting council for a municipality may not tie the hands of subsequent councils for a municipality.”

The ruling, which was handed down earlier this week, gives Sullivan’s Island Town Council complete authority over the forest.

“They can talk about how we can manage this land for the safety and enjoyment of all the residents,” Ewing said. “It’s thrilling.”

Ewing is thrilled because she says without the forest, the island would be nearly uninhabitable.

“It actually holds the land,” she said, “the plants out here, hold our land together. It also protects us from storm surge and hurricanes and flooding.”

In addition to keeping the island whole, and protecting residents from storms, O’Neil says the maritime forest is special for another reason.

“This is land which has been growing,” he said, “it’s been accreting. Whereas nearly every other barrier island along the East Coast is eroding. So, our island is getting bigger.”

Town residents say after years of dispute, they’re elated the court finally saw the forest for the trees.

“What we are looking forward to is being able to celebrate this incredible resource that we’ve been given instead of having to fight to protect it,” Ewing said.