Sullivan’s Island, one of South Carolina’s most beloved barrier islands, is located just a 10-mile drive from Charleston, making it the perfect destination for a day trip from the city. Here, long afternoons can be spent lounging on the island’s 2.5 miles of beachfront, savoring fresh seafood at one of the top restaurants, exploring the historic sites, and hiking through maritime forest. Settled by the British in the 17th century, Sullivan’s Island is part of many chapters of early American history, from the island’s role as a quarantine stop for ships during the slave trade to its military fort used during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Due to the number of historic structures that can be found here, Sullivan’s Island Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places.