I went to a beach... on a Tuesday. I read a book in sand that looks like glitter and watched the boats go by. The best part is, this isn't vacation. I live here. Some days it's hard to remember that.
No matter where you live, it is so easy to get caught up in life happenings that you forget how amazing your hometown is. You don't venture out. You stop exploring. You fall into a day-to-day routine where you take it all for granted. I feared I would fall into this state, so I vowed to myself that despite work, my to-do list, friends, or family I would make a point to "SEAs" the day and beach it at least once every couple of weeks.
Luckily, Charleston is surrounded by many phenomenal beaches. If you don't believe me, please refer to the map below! Pretty much any nearby town is either a peninsula or an island that requires a bridge or connector to get to. Honestly, the drive to the beach is just as beautiful as the beach itself! I was ready to spend some quality time under the sun and packed up my beach chair, and headed to Sullivan's Island.
Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
SULLIVAN'S ISLAND
Sullivan's Island is a local hidden gem. Its' charming 3.3 mile-long coast is almost completely residential, apart from a few short-term rental properties. There are no hotels, motels, or temporary lodging making it a perfect getaway to relax on a beach that is not so crowded.
There once was a trolley system that carried residents from one part of the island to the other, and so today the street names are all "station" numbers. We parked at Station 12, the last outlet that has public parking before the main road on the island runs out and forces you to turn around. Although all of the beaches on Sullivan's are breathtaking, this one has a unique and ever-so-spectacular view of Charleston's coast, the Ravenel bridge, and Fort Sumter.
The beach on Sullivan's is great to walk as there is so much to see! Sullivan's Island Lighthouse is a popular sight and is one of the most-modern lighthouses built on the east coast. It's triangular design is unique and can withstand hurricane winds up to 125mph. It stands at 140ft tall and has been a guide for the Charleston Harbor ships since its construction was completed in 1962.
When you've soaked in enough sun or exhausted your walking capacities, grab a thirst-quenching drink or delicious meal downtown at Poe's Tavern, Home Team Barbecue, The Obstinate Daughter, or any of the other finger-licking good restaurants. I personally love Home Team Barbecue. I'm not sure why, but when my day is done at the beach I CRAVE a good nacho, and Home Team has amazing barbecue nachos! They also have exceptional drinks. One of my favorites is their Game Changer, which has been featured in Southern Living Magazine. It's a refreshing blend of rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, coconut and is topped with fresh nutmeg. HOLY YUM.
Sullivan's Island is perfect for your beach getaway! I can't tell you how long I sat on the beach staring out at the horizon. I got lost in the beauty. My mind was still. My heart at peace.
