South Carolinians are known for their Southern hospitality, deep-fried traditions, and unwavering loyalty to all things local. But just scratch beneath the surface of that polite smile and you’ll find a state brimming with very strong opinions—especially if you dare to bring up barbecue, beach towns, or how to properly pronounce “pecan.” Here are 11 things folks from the Palmetto State will argue about until the shrimp boils over.
1. Barbecue Sauce: Mustard, Vinegar, or Tomato-Based?
Welcome to the holy war of condiments. If you think sauce doesn’t matter, you’ve clearly never eaten pulled pork in South Carolina.
2. Clemson vs. South Carolina
You’re either a Tiger or a Gamecock—and there is no neutral ground. Families have split, marriages tested, and tailgates ruined over this eternal rivalry.
3. The Best Beach: Myrtle, Folly, or Hilton Head?
Every beach has its die-hard fans. Myrtle has the chaos, Folly has the chill, and Hilton Head has the golf carts and wine. Pick your coast—and prepare for the judgment.
4. How You Say “Pecan”
Pee-can? Puh-kahn? Someone’s about to correct you either way, usually with pie in hand.
5. Whether Charleston Is the Crown Jewel or Just Overrated and Expensive
Is it a charming, history-soaked gem or a tourist trap with overpriced biscuits? Depends how long you had to wait for brunch.
6. Best Grits: Shrimp & Grits, Cheese Grits, or No Grits at All
Some swear by them, some don’t understand them, but everyone will fight over how they’re made—and who makes them best.
7. Is Boiled Peanut Season a Blessing or a Curse?
To some, they’re a warm, salty tradition of summer road trips. To others, they’re soggy legumes that should’ve stayed in the dirt.
8. Who Has the Best Sweet Tea
It’s not just tea—it’s a religion. Every restaurant thinks they’ve perfected it. Grandma still makes it better.
9. North Carolina BBQ vs. South Carolina BBQ
This sibling rivalry is alive and smoky. Carolina vs. Carolina has nothing to do with borders—everything to do with bragging rights and pit technique.
10. Whether It’s Ever Okay to Wear Anything Other Than Flip-Flops to the Grocery Store
You’re either dressed for church or like you just came from the beach—sometimes both. The dress code is coastal chaos and opinions are strong.
11. Whether We Should Tell Tourists About the Good Spots
On one hand, “Welcome, y’all!” On the other: “Don’t you tell them about that hushpuppy place in Murrells Inlet. That’s ours.”
South Carolina may move at a slower pace, but don’t mistake that for a lack of passion. From barbecue rivalries to beach-town loyalties, the Palmetto State is full of people ready to defend their traditions—politely, of course, and preferably over a plate of shrimp and grits.
The post 11 Things People from South Carolina Will Argue About Forever appeared first on When In Your State.