Plumbers in Sullivan's Island, SC

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - After around eight months of closure, the Edgar Allan Poe Library on Sullivan’s Island will officially reopen Tuesday morning with a brand-new look.

The library has been closed for renovations as part of the $108.5 million referendum project passed by Charleston County voters back in 2014 to build five new libraries and renovate all existing branches. This library is the last branch to be renovated before work begins on the Main Library in downtown Charleston.

The renovations to the Edgar Allan Poe Library include refurbished bathrooms with new flooring, all new paint and furniture and upgraded IT systems.

The building has been around for almost 120 years, so it was in definite need of a refresh.

As part of the renovations, the library was completely rewired with all new outlets, so library leaders say they are excited that there will no longer be any dead zones in the library and the Wi-Fi will reach every corner.

The branch manager for the library, Delores Schweitzer, says they have also given their collection a complete refresh, so patrons can expect to see a lot of brand-new books.

The library was named after Edgar Allan Poe who was stationed on Sullivan’s Island with the U.S. Army in the 1800s.

Schweitzer says she can’t wait to continue sharing the fun stories and history of the library.

“I think what I’m most excited about is to see our patrons and our visitors again. We get so many people that come in and wander into our building because they just are really intrigued by the building, or they see that it’s got Edgar Allan Poe on it and they know that there’s a story there and we are a place of stories,” she says. “This building itself being as old as it is, it has lots of stories to tell and we get to share those here so that makes it really fun.”

For Schweitzer, it means the world to her that county taxpayers have chosen the libraries as a priority, as the libraries offer so many things beyond books.

The libraries include all kinds of technology and resources and programs for county residents to enjoy. She says she loves to see people enjoy the new, refurbished libraries.

“I think it is just the delight in the faces of the people from the county that come in and they see refreshed spaces, better functionality, excited staff who are happy to share programs and services with them and they’re able to do that easier now because of the investment that the county taxpayers have made for us. It’s been phenomenal to see that kind of excitement in libraries that they just, you know, buzz with energy when you go into any of our libraries,” Schweitzer says.

Schweitzer says she has missed being in the library after it was closed for such a long period of time. She is eager to open it back up and to continue engaging with the community. She says she can’t wait for everyone to see all the new parts of the library that they can enjoy.

“I think you know a lot of our programs that we run here, like our memoir and poetry groups and our book clubs and all they celebrate stories and so we get a chance to share stories with people but also engage and hear their own and so that’s one of the things I’m really excited [about]. I’ve missed that a lot in the last several months not being able to do that. So, I’m glad to be back for it,” she says.

The grand reopening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the renovated Edgar Allan Poe Sullivan’s Island Library will take place at the library’s location, 1921 Ion Avenue, Tuesday at 9 a.m.

Speakers from Charleston County government, elected officials and the library will all be in attendance to honor the grand reopening with a special guest appearance from Owlbert, the library mascot.

Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.

With spring right around the corner, South Carolina residents can feel the days growing warmer and the sun shining brighter. If this wonderful weather has gotten you in the mood to travel, you will not have to go far. In fact, some of the state’s most incredible destinations are right in your backyard. Whether you want to savor fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, chase waterfalls in the mountains, or spot rare birds in a coastal wildlife refuge, these seven vacation spots promise an unforgettable getaway this year.

Edisto Island

Although Edisto Island is just over 40 miles from Charleston, it offers a complete change of pace, filled with serene beaches and rustic shops. Edisto Beach State Park, for example, is one of the state’s quietest beach parks, spanning 1,255 acres and featuring beautiful beaches and trails that stretch through maritime forests, salt marshes, and palmetto trees. Those looking to camp can do so at the park’s Live Oak Campground as well. Botany Bay, a coastal wildlife management area, is a great place to watch wildlife, home to species like the threatened least tern, loggerhead sea turtles, and neo-tropical songbirds. While Edisto Island does not have a shopping district, there are several local shops worth checking out. For a souvenir made by a local artisan, travelers can stop by With These Hands Gallery, which sells paintings, pottery, jewelry, vases, and more.

Murrells Inlet

Affectionately referred to as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina”, Murrells Inlet is the ultimate travel destination for food lovers. The MarshWalk is the perfect place to grab some fresh seafood, lined with waterfront restaurants. The Claw House, along the walk, features a waterfront patio and serves fresh oysters, shrimp, crabs, and other flavorful seafood dishes. Those wanting to lounge on the beach can visit Huntington Beach State Park, a 2,500-acre nature reserve with a pristine beach, 170 campsites, and three picnic shelters. For a waterfront stay, travelers can spend the night at Murrells Inlet Bed & Breakfast, which sits right along the inlet waterways. You may even spot an egret gliding by as you sip on your morning coffee on the porch!

Kiawah Island

Home to the famed Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island is the ideal vacation destination for a weekend of golfing, wellness, and relaxation. Those looking to spend their time golfing can choose from five resort courses which have hosted the prestigious 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships. The resort also offers 10 miles of private sandy shoreline, a highly rated spa, resort villas, and an oceanfront hotel so that you never need to leave the premises! However, if you want to explore other parts of the island, consider dining at one of its upscale restaurants, like FortyEight - Wine Bar & Kitchen, which has a selection of 48 wines by the glass, craft beers, and seasonal menus. For a taste of Kiawah Island’s art scene, travelers can check out the town’s event calendar, which includes events like piano bar performances, blues festivals, and film screenings.

Walhalla

Unlike coastal towns like Edisto Island and Murrells Inlet, Walhalla offers a mountain experience surrounded by forests and waterfalls. Waterfall lovers won’t want to miss Issaqueena Falls, a stunning 100-foot cascade fed by Cane Creek. The hike to view the fall is less than half a mile long. Next to the falls, Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park offers 14 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels. Even beginners can enjoy features like rollers, big berms, rock gardens, and tables. After exploring the area’s natural beauty, travelers can head back into town and take a stroll along Main Street before popping into one of the cozy local restaurants. Pete's Drive-In is a local favorite with a 1950s atmosphere, featuring records on the walls, checkered floors, and retro booths and chairs.

Travelers Rest

Located in the northwestern part of the state, Travelers Rest is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town is also one of the state’s most bike-friendly towns, so make sure to bring your bike! The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is the perfect place to bike, a 22-mile greenway that runs from Main Street to the neighboring town of Greenville. Along the trail, travelers will find trailside restaurants, park benches, and gazebos, giving you plenty of places to rest. The Poinsett Bridge is an interesting historic landmark to check out. This bridge, made of stone, is the oldest in the state, dating back to 1820. If you want to spend the night in town, consider reserving a night or two in the Swamp Rabbit Inn, a modern bed and breakfast that is located along Main Street.

Sullivan's Island

Sullivan’s Island, at the mouth of Charleston Harbor, is the perfect beach getaway for Charleston locals. For a day of swimming and sunbathing, travelers can enjoy Sullivan’s Island Beach, which offers 2.5 miles of sandy beaches. Fort Moultrie also lies on Sullivan’s Island, a Revolutionary War Fort that played a major role in defeating the Royal Navy in 1776. There are several local restaurants in town to try out. If you are craving seafood, Sullivan's Seafood & Bar is a great option, established in 1988 and serving everything from shrimp to snapper. If you're in the mood for South Carolina-style barbecue, Home Team Barbecue offers pulled pork, brisket, sausage, and wings.

Hilton Head Island

Known as 'America’s Favorite Island,' Hilton Head is one of the state's top travel destinations. In addition to spending the day on the beach, visitors can partake in a variety of water activities. Those wanting to go kayaking or paddleboarding can reserve a guided tour or rental with Island Water Sports. The Sea Pines Resort is another excellent way to appreciate the island’s nature, spanning 605 acres and featuring boardwalks, fishing docks, and bridges to explore the scenic wetlands. The island also has an exciting art scene to explore. If you enjoy live performances, make sure to check out the schedule for the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, which frequently hosts musicals and plays.

Final Thoughts

South Carolinians are fortunate to have so many beautiful destinations so close to home. Not only is the state home to some incredible islands, but towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains also offer ample places to go hiking or mountain biking. Whether you prefer to spend your vacation relaxing on a beach or hiking on a remote forest trail, you can rest assured that these vacation spots will leave you feeling rested and rejuvenated.

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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 $410-ish per night, 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 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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