Sullivan's Island - Fort Moultrie

If you’re looking for something a little different, this harbor-side beach facing downtown Charleston might interest you.

While this beach really is a little different—it’s relatively small (and even nonexistent at high tide) and has dangerous currents unfit for swimming—it’s precisely that difference that makes it interesting.

The seawall that lines the Fort Moultrie property is uncommon for the area (the old wood and stone wall protects the property from erosion).  Jetties provide a perch for fishing, and dolphins often swim by.

Fort Sumter sits just across the channel off the coast of James Island.

Freighters, cruise liners and even warships pass nearby in the shipping channel on their ways in and out of port.  You get a real sense of scale as the gigantic container ships pass by.

And the fort itself is interesting for kids and adults alike.

This beach is better for a stroll than for sunbathing, but if you time the tide (go around low) you can find enough beach to lounge.

Parking anywhere near Fort Moultrie, make your way around the fort towards the beach and across the dunes.  Turning left on the beach will lead you around the mouth of the harbor to the oceanside.  Turning right will lead you into the harbor and towards views of downtown Charleston and the Cooper River Bridge.

From Charleston and Mt. Pleasant, cross the Ben Sawyer Bridge (swing bridge) and turn right on Middle Street.  Look for parking starting at Station 14.

From Isle of Palms, follow Palm Blvd. southwest to Sullivan’s Island.  Turn right immediately onto Middle Street and proceed a few miles to Station 14.

Our Charleston guide is a work in progress. Please bear with us.