South Carolina was important to the Confederacy during the American Civil War. The first state to leave the Union, South Carolina, put itself front and center at the start of the conflict. So it’s no surprise that Charleston Harbor was the first target of aggression. When the militia fired on Fort Sumter, the local (free) population cheered.
Today, this island and the ferry to reach it provide excellent views of the harbor and downtown Charleston.
It’s a perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon riding the waves, watching for dolphins, and scrambling over historic rocks.
While a visit does take quite a bit of time, it is worth the trip. Read on to understand why Fort Sumter consistently joins Rainbow Row and others on the list of Charleston’s top attractions.