Sullivan’s Island
Once home to maritime forests and military installations, the island now features well-preserved houses and lush gardens
Insider’s Garden Tours are designed for garden enthusiasts and are guided by local professionals such as landscape architects, garden designers, and horticulturalists. In addition to visiting some of the area’s most beautiful private gardens, guests will also learn about subjects ranging from the latest gardening trends to Charleston’s vast horticultural history, and its diverse flora and fauna. Each tour includes a unique set of 4 – 5 gardens and lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with complimentary refreshments included.
Sullivan’s Island, with its coastal breezes and sandy soils, offers a distinctive setting for Lowcountry gardening that blends natural beauty with historic charm. Once home to maritime forests and military installations, the island now features well-preserved houses with lush private gardens that reflect a deep connection to native flora, salt-tolerant plantings, and sustainable coastal design. Join us to learn how island gardeners and landscape designers creatively adapt to the unique challenges of seaside horticulture while honoring the island’s rich ecological and cultural heritage.
Tour Information:
- Check-In: Check-in takes place on-site at the beginning of the tour. There are no physical tickets, and printed confirmations are not required. All guests will be checked in will-call style at the beginning of the tour using the first and last name on your order. Addresses are not published in advance of the tour. Ticket holders will receive instructions via email 3-5 days prior to the tour.
- Restrooms: Restrooms are not available in the private houses and the nearest public restrooms may be a considerable walking distance away, please plan accordingly.
- Photography: Photography is not permitted on private property, inside or out. In accordance with South Carolina state law, photography is only permitted from the public right of way.
- Weather: Tours go on rain or shine. Prepare for inclement weather, if forecasted. The Preservation Society reserves the right to cancel the tours if threatening or unpredicted conditions arise. If the tour is cancelled by the PSC, all ticket holders will be contacted and refunds will be available.
- Other: High-heeled shoes are not permitted. We suggest wearing flat, comfortable walking shoes. In some cases, plastic shoe coverings may be required for entry and will be provided. Food and drink, other than capped water bottles, is not permitted inside.
- Cancellations and Refunds: All sales are final. Refund requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis until September 1. After September 1, guests who notify the office in advance may either exchange their tickets for a comparable tour if space is available or convert their ticket purchase to a tax-deductible charitable donation. Most tours do run waitlists once sold out – if you are no longer able to attend, please let us know so your space may be released.