Welcome to South Carolina, where the sweet tea is sweeter, the coast is always calling, and the locals are proud of their heritage and hospitality. Whether you’re strolling through Charleston’s cobblestone streets or relaxing on a Lowcountry beach, there’s a surefire way to spot a true South Carolina local. Here’s how to do it—faster than you can say “Bless your heart.”
They Greet You With a “Hey, Y’all” (And They Expect You to Respond).
If you hear a warm, “Hey, y’all!” you’re talking to a South Carolina local. It’s the greeting of choice for just about any occasion, whether they’re waving to a neighbor or inviting you over for dinner. Bonus points if you respond with your own “Hey, y’all!”—they’ll love that you’ve got the Southern lingo down.
They’ll Correct You if You Call It ‘Carolina’ Without the ‘South’ Part.
A true local will never refer to their state as just “Carolina.” It’s South Carolina, thank you very much. They’ll make sure you know the distinction, explaining with pride that there’s no such thing as “North Carolina” in their world. It’s a rivalry thing, and they take it seriously.
They’re Always Talking About Their Favorite BBQ Joint—And It’s Probably a Hole-in-the-Wall You’ve Never Heard Of.
BBQ in South Carolina isn’t just a meal—it’s a way of life. A local will passionately tell you about their favorite BBQ joint, but it’s not going to be some big chain you can find anywhere. They’ll insist that the best pulled pork is served with a mustard-based sauce, and if you ask them where to find it, they’ll direct you to some hidden gem off a country road.
They’ll Be Wearing Flip-Flops (Even in the Winter).
Flip-flops are always in style in South Carolina, and locals wear them year-round. Whether they’re at the beach, in the grocery store, or even going to church (no judgment here), you can bet they’re rocking flip-flops. If you see someone wearing shoes during the winter, it’s because they’re heading to a fancy event—but it’s definitely not their first choice.
They’ll Tell You Exactly Where to Go for the Best Grits.
Grits are a staple in South Carolina, and if you want the best, a local will have a recommendation ready. Don’t even think about ordering “instant grits”—they’ll give you an entire lesson on why homemade, slow-cooked grits are the only real way to go. Expect them to brag about their grandma’s secret recipe.
They’ve Got a Deep Appreciation for Sweet Tea—And They’ll Judge Yours if You’re Not From Around Here.
Sweet tea is the drink of choice, and a true South Carolinian knows exactly how sweet it should be. If you ask for tea at a restaurant, expect to be asked if you want it “sweetened.” If you don’t know what that means, they might just bring you a glass with the perfect amount of sugar, along with a polite side-eye if you don’t appreciate it.
They Can Tell You the Best Beach for Any Occasion.
Whether you’re looking to relax on a quiet beach, catch some waves, or enjoy a lively atmosphere, a local will know exactly which South Carolina beach to recommend. They’ll tell you about the pros and cons of Folly Beach versus Isle of Palms, or why they personally prefer Hilton Head to Myrtle Beach. They’ll also let you know that Charleston’s beaches are just as beautiful as the ones down the coast.
They Know the Importance of the ‘Lowcountry Boil’—And They’ll Invite You to One.
The Lowcountry Boil is a South Carolina tradition, and if a local invites you to one, count yourself lucky. Expect a feast of shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn—all boiled in one giant pot and served on a table covered with newspaper. Don’t worry about fancy utensils; it’s a hands-on meal, and the mess is half the fun.
They Know Their Way Around Charleston—And They’ll Tell You About It (Repeatedly).
Charleston is the place to be in South Carolina, and locals are proud of their city’s history, charm, and beauty. They’ll tell you all about the best spots to eat, shop, and sightsee, including that hidden restaurant downtown that only the locals know about. Don’t even think about suggesting a touristy spot—Charleston locals will steer you to the spots that are truly “off the beaten path.”
They’ll Mention “The Porgy and Bess” or “The Battery” and Expect You to Know Exactly What They Mean.
If a South Carolinian mentions Porgy and Bess or The Battery, they’re referring to historical landmarks or events that are part of their everyday conversation. They’ll talk about it like you should already know, and if you don’t, be prepared for a crash course on Charleston’s role in American history.
And there you have it! With these 10 signs, you’ll spot a South Carolina local faster than you can eat a plate of shrimp and grits. From BBQ to sweet tea to the Lowcountry, life in South Carolina is all about family, food, and making memories in one of the most beautiful states in the South. So, next time you’re in town, be sure to say “Hey, y’all” and get ready to enjoy the true Southern experience!
