21 Gift Ideas From Charleston That Locals Love

Are you planning a trip to the Holy City and wondering what to bring back? As someone who spent many years in Charleston, South Carolina, I’ve seen the tourist traps and the true treasures and know the difference well!

Every time I return to the Lowcountry, I leave a little extra room in my suitcase for these 21 finds that capture the history, flavor, and soul of the Deep South.

Get ready to pack a few extra indulgences; bring a bit of Carolina back to family and friends – and remember to treat yourself, too!

1. Benne Wafers

These thin, nutty sesame cookies date back centuries. They are the ultimate “I was in Charleston, and I loved it!” snack.

• Where to Source: Grab a bag at Charleston Specialty Foods. Look for the traditional gold-and-brown boxes.
• Expert Tip: They offer drop shipping online, perfect if you’re traveling with only a carry-on!

2. Charleston Tea Garden Hand Cream

An emollient blend of glycerine and fine tea grown right on Wadmalaw Island. The Mango Green Tea scent is a local obsession.

• Where to Source: Found at the Charleston Tea Garden gift shop.
• Expert Tip: If you aren’t checking a bag, buy a few of the travel-sized tubes instead of the large 6-oz size!

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3. Cheese Straws

Savory, buttery, and with a bit of “bite,” these are a staple at every Southern cocktail party or around the holidays. I dare you to try to eat just one!

• Where to Source: Look for the Charleston Favorites brand for the most authentic sharp cheddar flavor.
• Expert Tip: Skip the wacky “fusion” blends and go straight for the cheese.

4. Pecan Pralines

Sweet, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth perfection, pralines are a decadent treat for any confectionery connoisseur.

• Where to Source: River Street Sweets in the shops along the Charleston Market. Look for the red awning on Market Street.
• Expert Tip: I’ve been coming here for free samples since I was a kid. They are delicate treats, so if you’re flying, carry them on board carefully!

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5. Sweetgrass Baskets

These aren’t just souvenirs; they are handwoven, functional pieces of Gullah history and art available in a myriad of shapes and sizes.

• Where to Source: Buy directly from the charming, talented artists at the Charleston City Market
• Expert Tip: Look for tight, uniform weaving and the “sweet smell” wafting from inside these heirloom-quality pieces.

6. Rainbow Row Tea Towels

A cheerful way to bring Charleston’s most famous street into your kitchen.

• Where to Source: Historic Charleston Foundation Shop
• Expert Tip: Your purchase here helps fund local historic preservation efforts, so stock up. Look for 100% linen towels to prevent lint that lingers.

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7. Charleston Gate Jewelry

Elegant silver or gold pieces inspired by the city’s iconic wrought-iron scrollwork.

• Where to Source: Polly’s Fine Jewelry carries the most detailed gate motifs available in square, rectangular, and round options.
• Expert Tip: Find a pattern that resonates with your style, be it mildly ornate or wildly winding!

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8. Rice Beads

Long, shimmering strands of tiny rice-shaped beads with a nod to Charleston’s “Carolina Gold” rice history.

• Where to Source: Check out The Vault on King for modern versions by local designers, available in sterling silver or pure gold.
• Expert Tip: Be sure to note to admirers that your beads are from Charleston, as they’re often confused with similar ones from Italy.

9. Carolina Gold Sauce

The “Gold” refers to the mustard base of this tangy, bright, and strictly South Carolinian Barbecue sauce, perfect for dipping and marinating.

• Where to Source: Queen Street Grocery or Lowcountry Olive Oil.
• Expert Tip: Don’t be surprised if you start slathering this on everything. It has been known to become an addictive condiment!

10. Boiled Peanuts

The “Caviar of the South.” Just as their name implies, these are soft, salty versions of regular peanuts, cooked in the shell and totally addictive.

• Where to Source: Hyman’s General Store sells them in travel-ready jars, or opt for the less expensive cans by Peanut Patch in grocery stores!
• Expert Tip: Also called goober peas, adventurous palettes know that cajun-flavored boiled peanuts are a flavor for the brave!

11. Dried Okra

If you dislike okra because it’s slimy, try the dried version. It’s a crunchy, salty, mildly healthy snack you can take on the go!

• Where to Source: Charleston Specialty Foods. Dried okra is lightweight and won’t break in your bag, but still, pack it with care.
• Expert Tip: Again with the cajun flavors, but most dried okra lovers stick to the original flavor, which has a somewhat sweet finish.

12. Stone-Ground Grits

Don’t you dare even think about buying “instant” grits. These come in rustic cotton bags and taste like a Sunday morning.

• Where to Source: Adluh Flour Store. Look for the blue-stamped sacks.
• Expert Tip: While gold is the preferred color of traditional grits, they also come in natural colors like blue, red, and pink, depending on the corn.

13. Lowcountry Art Prints

Brighten your walls with whimsical prints of recipes for She Crab Soup and Okra Stew, local flora and fauna, or landmarks like St. Phillips church.

• Where to Source: Artist & Craftsman Supply or the City Market.
• Expert Tip: Dig deep into the bins of print stores to find collectible, vintage folk art prints by Samuel Ravenal Gaillard.

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14. Artwork by Local Talent

For something more modern, seek out local artists like Tiel Duncan, Tate Nation, and Molly Wright, who define the “New Charleston” aesthetic with bold colors, bottle caps, and abstract style.

• Where to Source: Atelier Gallery or online. Search the artists’ names for locations and times of studio visits.
• Expert Tip: Original art is an investment! Don’t hesitate to go big or go home, especially when you purchase a unique piece.

15. Palmetto Flag Webbed Belts

Part of the quintessential “Charleston Uniform,” these preppy fabric belts with brass buckles feature the state’s iconic palmetto tree and crescent moon.

• Where to Source: The Charleston Angler or Ben Silver.
• Expert Tip: While they are available in local athletic team colors or sassy pink and green, nothing beats the classic look of navy and white.

16. Oyster Shell Home Decor

Gilded edges and floral patterns turn local oyster shells into beautiful jewelry, dishes, and home décor. Repurpose and refashion!

• Where to Source: Celadon or the Charleston Farmers Market.
• Expert Tip: Look for functional pieces to use, rather than just decorating a surface. Think candle holders, lamps, or jewelry trinket dishes.

17. Old Whaling Co. Soap

Handmade sea-inspired soaps, lotions, and other apothecary that make your skin soft and your whole bathroom smell like a beach vacation.

• Where to Source: Their flagship store is on Meeting Street.
• Expert Tip: Try the popular, addictive “Sie la Vie” scent in the irresistible, generous tub of body butter. ¡Magnifique!

18. Zipper Koozies

Designed to hug your glass bottle, these keep your drinks cold in the humid Lowcountry heat.

• Where to Source: Palmetto Moon or Southern Tide.
• Expert Tip: Buy several of these neoprene novelties; they’re a hit with party crowds and make great host gifts!

19. YETI Mugs in Lowcountry Colors

While you can get YETI mugs anywhere, Charlestonians live by them for boat days and tailgates.

• Where to Source: Half-Moon Outfitters
• Expert Tip: Look for “limited edition” colors inspired by the local coast or with southern phrases on them, like “Beach, please” and “Hey, Y’all!”

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20. Pimento Cheese

The “Paté of the South”, no fridge is complete without this thick, chunky concoction of cheddar cheese, salt, mayonnaise, and tangy red pimentos.

• Where to Source: Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit sells their exclusive version, or pick up a plastic tub of Price’s in the refrigerated foods at Harris Teeter
• Expert Tip: Go out on a limb and make your own! Be sure to use top-quality cheddar cheese and a Southern mayo like Duke’s. It’s got twang!

21. Redneck Horseshoes

Based on a game that uses real glass bottles, this soft version, patented by Jimmy Mazyck from James Island, is the official toss game of the Lowcountry

• Where to Source: Palmetto Moon or visit the website and order online
• Expert Tip: More portable than cornhole! Bring these back to friends from your next trip to Charleston and be the hit of the party!

Bonus Tip: The Ultimate Insider Secret: Tomlinson’s in Summerville

If you want to skip the downtown crowds and shop like a true local, take a 30-minute drive to “Flowertown” (Summerville). where you’ll find Tomlinson’s, a hometown gem that carries almost everything on this list under one roof.

• Head to: 525 Bacons Bridge Rd, Summerville, check the website for days and hours of operation
• Expert Tip: The staff provides world-class Southern hospitality, making this store a must-see. On my visit, I met Dana, a knowledgeable fellow traveler who blogs about adventures with her twin sister, Deanna.

Wrap Up: Charleston is Calling

If you’re planning a trip to Charleston, I’ve got you covered with the best recommendations on places to stay, things to do, and how to make the most of your Southern getaway.

Check out 78 Southern Phrases That Will Blow Your Hair Back for a little local lingo and browse everything under the Carolina tag on Cocameca for a deep dive into the Deep South!

Charleston is waiting for you! Come for the charm, stay for the sunsets, and leave with your heart like your luggage… full!