Hyperbaric Chamber Therapy in Sullivan's Island, SC

Jason Stanhope has spent the last 17 months establishing a strong culinary identity at Lowland in Charleston.

The restaurant inside The Pinch boutique hotel, where he was hired to be executive chef in September 2023, went through multiple menu iterations after it debuted two months later.

Eventually, Stanhope found a way to fit his style of cooking, which he honed over 15 years at FIG, into Lowland's three-story former private residence that dates to 1834. Several favorites have emerged, from his fresh pasta, biscuits and crispy quail to a delightful celery salad with dates, walnuts and long shavings of Prairie Breeze cheddar.

The chef, who won a James Beard Award while working under Mike Lata at FIG, had found a new home at Lowland. But he's about to start a job at different restaurant in the Charleston area.

He wasn’t looking for another venture, but the right opportunity — one that enabled him to be a part-owner for the first time in his career — is pulling him away from the George Street restaurant and out to a familiar destination on Sullivan’s Island.

“I feel like I’m leaving while the party is just getting good,” Stanhope said. “The concept has come a long way since day one.”

Stanhope said Lowland is in a strong position with its current team. Randall Cook, CEO and co-founder of Lowland operator Method Co., echoed that sentiment.

"Chef Jason Stanhope has been instrumental in making Lowland into the incredible place it is today — a cherished neighborhood establishment as well as a nationally acclaimed restaurant," Cook said in a statement. "We deeply appreciate his leadership and the passionate and talented team — both in the kitchen and the front of the house — that he has cultivated and who are ready to usher Lowland into its exciting next chapter."

In the coming months, Stanhope will transition into his new role as executive chef and partner at Sullivan’s Seafood & Bar, originally opened as Sullivan’s Fish Camp in 2022. Current operators Ben and Kate Towill — who transformed the former island staple Sullivan’s Seafood Restaurant into a breezy establishment with a 1970s-inspired beachside aesthetic — are no longer involved in the restaurant.

Sullivan’s is owned by Wes and Betsy Fuller, Jeremy Graves and, now, Stanhope.

“Renovating Sullivan’s was such a privilege for us, and Kate and I are thrilled that Jeremy and Jason are taking it over and on to its next chapter,” Ben Towill said in a statement. “I know Jason shares our deep love and respect for Charleston’s incredible farmers and fishermen, and we cannot wait to come back with our family as guests.”

Stanhope consulted with Lata, owner of FIG and The Ordinary, and well-known chefs like Ashley Christensen and Pat Martin, before making the decision.

The 2015 James Beard Award winner realized that the Sullivan’s Island establishment gave him a sense of place and framework for cooking the kind of locally inspired food he’s passionate about. He also envisions his kids, 4 and 7, growing up with the restaurant.

“This felt like an opportunity for me to truly be in control of my own destiny,” Stanhope said.

The restaurant will transition back to its fish camp roots, Stanhope said, though he anticipates upcoming shifts to happen gradually. He eventually envisions a place where guests can order a basket of expertly fried fish next to light, bright plates filled with local vegetables.

“I’m excited to do some fish camp classics,” Stanhope said. “But I’m also excited to take what people think a fish camp is and show them that it can evolve, like everything.”

As for the restaurant’s ambiance and décor, patrons can expect little to change under Stanhope’s watch. The chef credited the Towills with building “an amazing dining room” with a functional and visually appealing design.

Sullivan’s Island diners can look forward to seeing Stanhope roam that bright dining room starting this spring.

Sullivan’s Fish Camp will continue to operate as it has during the transition. For more information, visit sullivansseafoodandbar.com.

A Victorian tale of revenge comes to life from March 12-15 at the Battery Gadsden Cultural Center on Sullivan's Island, as the Holy City Arts & Lyric group (HALO) promises to deliver an evocative and enduring performance.

The Stephen Sondheim score will feature a 22-piece on-stage orchestra in this portrayal of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. The story revolves around an exiled barber thirsting with vengeance against those who have crossed him, according to HALO Artistic Director Dimitri Pittas.

In describing what to expect from this four-night production, Pittas explained that most people would commonly refer to it as your classic musical and/or Broadway show.

"And that's the thing with HALO, we don't put ourselves in boxes. You know, we will do La Traviata or Rigoletto in the fall and follow it up with something like Steven Sondheim. It's the same art form; it's just a different period in which it's being presented. The Italian word for opera (opera d'arte) is really just a work of art," said the New York City-born tenor.

What's more, buying a ticket to a HALO event means being an active participant in the theatrical showcase. Spectators, continued Pittas, are encouraged to interact with the on-stage talent through much of every performance.

Since 2019, Pittas and his wife Leah Edwards — an opera singer and pianist — have operated HALO in response to an intense clamoring for live stage entertainment in the Charleston metro area. As an Italian tenor who had galivanted the entire world over two decades, Pittas had no plans to launch his own performance company.

But as fate would have it, Pittas and Edwards fell in love with Charleston, also known as the birthplace of opera in North America. The Holy City, in fact, was the setting for the premiere of Flora in 1735.

Upon relocating from the Big Apple in 2015, the husband-wife duo quickly caught on to Charleston's connection to opera and musical theater.

HALO's September 2019 debut, however, hit a setback — much like many other businesses — only months later with nationwide COVID lockdowns going into effect in March of 2020. But about a month or two into the early stages of the pandemic, the artistic couple began staging concerts from their driveway with music playing from a pickup truck.

"That basically like was the phoenix rising out of the ashes for our organization because everything got turned upside down. We ended up doing 100 concerts between April and November that year."

Since then, HALO has gone on to produce large-scale productions annually at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park or at Battery Gadsden, among other Lowcountry venues.

Being a nonprofit, recounted Pittas, and the challenges it presents in terms of raising money, has been a rewarding experience for the well-traveled entertainer. On that note, the peripatetic opera singer commutes three days week to New York City to serve as a member of the voice faculty at the Manhattan School of Music.

One of the greatest joys Pittas derives from assembling a cast is watching talented individuals of varying experience levels collaborating seamlessly before a live crowd.

"There are artists who come down from New York, that come from all over the world. And the great thing that we do is we put them on stage with people who are looking for those opportunities in Charleston," he observed. "That's great because at the end of the day, it's all about creating a level of art we aspire to."

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.holycityarts.org. To stay up to date with HALO happenings and to find out how you can be involved, sign up to receive the newsletter. For individual and corporate sponsorship opportunities, please call the office at (843) 388-3243.

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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