South Carolina has no shortage of beautiful towns worth visiting, but this one is one of the state's best-kept secrets. Dolphins breach the crystal-clear waters as golf carts whisk past centuries-old live oaks. Picture a place where flip-flops meet fine dining, historic bunkers have been transformed into chic libraries, and every sunset feels like a private show.

This slice of paradise isn't just another beach town – it's where Southern charm and coastal luxury combine, creating an enclave that would make even California's elite raise their eyebrows in appreciation. These are just some of the awesome things a traveler can experience in South Carolina, and this exclusive island town offers all of them and more.

In South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills, there are no hotel towers blocking ocean views, no rowdy tourist crowds – just a few lucky residents who've discovered what might be the East Coast's best-kept secret. Welcome to Sullivan's Island, South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills, where multimillion-dollar homes peek through maritime forests and the Atlantic whispers tales of pirates and poets.

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Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, Is The Ultimate Coastal Sanctuary

Sullivan's Island won't be on the list of the most affordable islands to retire to in the US, but it has a depth of pedigree behind its opulence. Step onto Station 18 1/2, where waves lap against pristine shores and resident artists capture the morning light.

The same beaches that once inspired Edgar Allan Poe now showcase nature's daily performance – from pelicans diving for breakfast to kitesurfers dancing with the wind. Modern mansions hide behind century-old palms while longtime residents cruise to local haunts in golf carts, embodying the island's perfect blend of luxury and laid-back coastal living.

Sullivan's Island's beaches aren't just comparable to Florida's—some would contend they are better. While Florida may have more sunshine, Sullivan's Island is more secluded, allowing visitors to truly experience the coastline uniquely.

It's not a place where thousands of people show up on the beach, but it's ideal for those who want to enjoy the coastline in a more private setting or a quieter environment.

When travelers think of Beverly Hills, they think of fancy buildings and breathtaking views. Sullivan's Island has both, and it's one of the most exclusive zip codes in South Carolina. Not only is it exclusive, but also quite expensive.

Sullivan's Island remains one of the most expensive places in South Carolina, showing how similar it is to California's most opulent neighborhood.

Visit Fort Moultrie, The Historic Fort That Saved America

This particular historical site is one of the many good reasons to visit South Carolina. Fort Moultrie is a testament to American resilience, where palmetto logs once absorbed British cannonballs like sponges.

Today, visitors walk the same grounds where Colonel William Moultrie's troops secured a pivotal victory in 1776, helping birth a nation. The fort, transformed over three centuries of coastal defense, offers an extraordinary glimpse into military history, with each chamber and cannon telling tales of courage under fire.

Sullivan's Island Is A Foodie's Paradise Without Pretense

Sullivan's Island is another one of the least crowded spots in South Carolina worth visiting, and its culinary lineage is a good reason. Along Middle Street, South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills reveals its tastiest secrets.

Local chefs transform fresh-caught seafood into culinary masterpieces, while historic buildings house restaurants where reservations are as precious as beachfront property. The island's dining scene perfectly balances upscale offerings and casual coastal fare, where flip-flops are always welcome.

While there's a case for visiting Sullivan's Island at any time of the year, the best time for most travelers is in spring or summer. In spring, Sullivan's Island showcases its breathtaking flora and fauna, and its temperatures are ideal for exploring all over the island.

Summer offers the perfect setup for beach activities; the sun is ideal for a picnic on the beach or one of the island's meadows. Winter and fall are the low-season for the island, so visitors are not likely to see a lot of others in the area. They still offer some spectacular sights for dedicated travelers.

Edgar Allan Poe's Literary Legacy Meets Modern Luxury On Sullivan's Island

Edgar Allan Poe's spirit lives on in a former military bunker turned library. Streets named Raven and Gold Bug commemorate the famous author's time stationed at Fort Moultrie, while modern authors continue finding inspiration along these shores.

South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills proves that cultural richness and coastal luxury aren't mutually exclusive.

Sullivan's Island Is A Paradise That Defies Definition

Some might call Sullivan's Island South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills, but that comparison barely scratches the surface. There's more to this gorgeous spot than the pristine coastline, the fancy houses, or the historical significance.

It's one of the places in South Carolina that feels like home, no matter how long you visit. It's a place where luxury doesn't mean pretense, history lives in every grain of sand, and the simple pleasure of a sunrise still outshines any material wealth.

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Sometimes, small towns leave a lasting mark bigger and better than the world's most sought-after destinations.

Greeted with “how ya doin‘?” instead of “keep it movin” where you feel like just another face in the crowd, the South is teeming with hidden gems and quaint getaways that will have you coming back again and again.

For example, when I visit Texas on occasion, I often find myself seeking out the small towns of Grapevine, Gruene, and Socorro, depending on where I am in the state, but certainly not Dallas or Austin.

Same goes for any state, but in this case, you may want to skip out on the tourist crowds of ever-so-trendy Charleston in favor of an idyllic, pint-sized island just 20 minutes away.

Practically a stone's throw from one of the South's most popular cities to indulge in rich history, epic eats, and timeless charm is Sullivan's Island, offering many of the same delights without hordes of visitors and overpriced menus.

This 3.5-mile-long barrier island is nestled along the Atlantic between numerous neighboring islands and, yes, Charleston.

Typically, you might hear of most vacationers making their way to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina's renowned coastal vacation spot lined with beachside resorts and a buzzing boardwalk, but Sullivan's Island has gotta be the state's best-kept secret.

Those seeking a tranquil beach getaway should look no further than Sullivan's Island, boasting a very walkable rustic downtown easy to peruse local shops, galleries, and bar-hop if you please.

While you may not see restaurants run by acclaimed chefs featured by the Food Network, among others, as you will in Charleston, you will discover homey southern comfort foods intermixed with “catch of the days” straight from the source.

Better yet, you won't have to spend a fraction of your paycheck on a cup of coffee since there's no Starbucks, a small example portraying the island's far less touristy vibes without the eyesores of chain restaurants ruining the townscape's character.

Originally named O'Sullivan Island after early settler Captain Florence O'Sullivan, the “O” has since been dropped, but many historic sites remain.

Having played a significant factor through multiple wars, including ground zero for the Battle of Sullivan's Island in 1776, tourists can visit preserved structures like Fort Moultrie, holding intriguing exhibits and sweeping views of the surrounding scenery.

Fort Moultrie also overlooks Fort Sumter, another significant site, but you'll need to detour back to Charleston to be able to reach the ladder via ferry.

While it may be tempting to grab a bite to eat in one of the country's most popular foodie cities, Sullivan's Island's food scene is nothing to sleep on, with exceptional seafood and mouthwatering barbecue that will have you asking for extra napkins.

Southern Living hyped up a few different spots, depending on your palate. If you're up to slurping down oysters, check out The Longboard's ‘Happy Hour'.

If you're the type to nibble every last bit of ribs, then Home Team BBQ is just for you. But, if it were me, I'd be feasting on a burger at Poe's Tavern, an establishment dedicated to famed poet Edgar Allan Poe, who was stationed on Sullivan's Island as a private in the Army in the 1800s.

Who woulda thunk it?

As delightful as Sullivan's Island's main strip and as fascinating and photo-worthy as the numerous historic sites may be, at its core, this island is a year-round beach destination.

Sullivan's Island Beach holds an impressive 4.7 Google Rating, largely in part due to so much open space, unlike, say, Myrtle Beach.

Station 18 Beach is also a tranquil spot, boasting white sand and calm waves, just like Sullivan's Island Beach.

One of the most underrated aspects, once you leave Charleston proper, is the ability to island-hop the region.

Next to Sullivan's Island, just past a small canal inlet, is Isle Palms Beach, well worth a day trip to see what it's all about with equally scenic beaches.

But where should you stay? You won't find name-brand hotels here. Sullivan's Island is all about cozy rentals.

Lining the shores from Sullivan's Island through next-door Isle of Palms are rows of beachside cottages.

You can book in a variety of ways, such as Airbnb, Booking.com, or by searching local agencies.

There's still plenty of occupancy to cap off winter with a relaxing getaway. I scoured the interwebs for the perfect seaside cottage, and this one is my favorite.

Costing only $410 for a weeklong stay, it's located directly next to the aforementioned Fort Moultrie and with immediate beach access and walkable to Sullivan's Island's Nature Trail.

Plus, who would say no to free wine at check-in?!

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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