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IT'SUGAR in South Carolina — Where to Find Massive Candy Selections and Novelty Treats

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What IT'SUGAR is and where to find it in South Carolina

IT'SUGAR is a candy chain that stocks thousands of sweets under one roof — everything from classic American brands to international candies, sour gummies, chocolate bars, lollipops, and novelty items shaped like oversized versions of real objects. The stores are designed as destinations rather than quick stops, with bright displays, themed sections, and a focus on visual appeal alongside selection. In South Carolina, IT'SUGAR has locations in Myrtle Beach and Charleston, both positioned in high-traffic shopping and tourism areas where visitors and locals can browse.

The Myrtle Beach location sits in the heart of the tourist district, making it easy to reach during a beach vacation or weekend trip. The Charleston store serves the downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods. Both locations operate year-round, though hours may shift seasonally, particularly in Myrtle Beach where tourism peaks in summer and around holidays.

Key Takeaways

  • IT'SUGAR stocks thousands of candy types including American classics, international brands, sugar-free options, and novelty items in themed sections.
  • The Myrtle Beach location is in the main tourist corridor; the Charleston store is downtown, both open year-round with seasonal hour variations.
  • Prices are higher than grocery store candy aisles because you are paying for selection, novelty items, and the in-store experience rather than bulk purchasing.
  • The stores cater to tourists, gift-buyers, and people looking for specific hard-to-find candies or oversized novelty treats.
  • Both locations accept standard payment methods and typically allow browsing without pressure to purchase.

What you will find inside an IT'SUGAR store

The stores are organized by candy type and theme rather than by brand alone. You will find sections for sour candies, gummies, chocolate, hard candies, lollipops, licorice, and sugar-free options. Many items come in bulk bins where you can select individual pieces or small quantities. Novelty items — giant lollipops, candy in unusual shapes, retro brands no longer sold in regular stores, and international sweets from Europe, Asia, and Latin America — take up significant floor space and often draw the most attention from first-time visitors.

IT'SUGAR also carries candy-themed merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, and small gifts. The visual presentation is intentional: bright colors, tall displays, and eye-catching arrangements make the store feel more like an attraction than a typical retail space. This approach appeals to tourists looking for a memorable shopping experience and to people buying gifts or party supplies.

Pricing and what affects the cost

IT'SUGAR prices are noticeably higher than what you would pay for the same candy at a grocery store or mass-market retailer. A single candy bar or package of gummies may cost two to three times the supermarket price. This reflects the business model: you are paying for the curated selection, the novelty items that are difficult to find elsewhere, the themed store experience, and the convenience of finding thousands of options in one location rather than shopping multiple stores.

Bulk bin items are priced by weight, so the final cost depends on what you select and how much you take. Novelty and oversized items carry the highest markups because they are not available through standard retail channels. If you are looking for everyday candy at everyday prices, a grocery store is more economical. If you want to explore unusual varieties, find a specific hard-to-locate brand, or purchase a memorable gift, IT'SUGAR's premium pricing reflects what you are getting.

Planning a visit to IT'SUGAR in Myrtle Beach

The Myrtle Beach location is positioned as a tourist destination and performs well during peak season (May through August) and around holidays. Parking is typically available in the surrounding shopping area, though it can be tight during summer weekends. The store itself is spacious enough to accommodate browsing without feeling cramped, even when busy.

Plan to spend 20 minutes to an hour depending on how thoroughly you want to explore. First-time visitors often spend longer because the selection and novelty items warrant attention. If you are visiting with children, budget extra time — the visual appeal and variety tend to hold attention. The store is air-conditioned and well-lit, making it a comfortable indoor activity during hot or rainy weather.

Planning a visit to IT'SUGAR in Charleston

The Charleston location serves both tourists and residents. It is positioned downtown, within walking distance of other shops, restaurants, and attractions, so it works well as part of a larger outing rather than a standalone destination. Street parking and nearby lots are available, though downtown parking can be competitive during peak tourist season and weekends.

The store follows the same format as Myrtle Beach — thousands of candies organized by type and theme — but the downtown location means you can combine a visit with meals, galleries, historic sites, or other downtown activities. Hours are consistent year-round, though you should check ahead during major holidays or special events when downtown traffic patterns shift.

What to bring and how to shop efficiently

Bring cash or a card — both locations accept standard payment methods. If you plan to use the bulk bins, bring or ask for a small bag to sample as you go; this helps you decide what to purchase without committing to full packages of items you have not tried. The stores do not pressure you to buy, so browsing is welcome even if you are just looking.

If you are searching for a specific candy or brand, ask staff — they know the inventory and can point you to sections or items quickly. If you are buying gifts, the novelty and oversized items make obvious choices, and staff can suggest popular items if you are unsure. The stores are designed for self-directed browsing, but staff are available if you need help navigating the selection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do IT'SUGAR stores carry sugar-free candy?

Yes, both locations stock sugar-free options in various categories — gummies, chocolate, hard candies, and lollipops. The selection is smaller than regular candy, but it is clearly marked and organized in its own section. Prices for sugar-free items are typically higher than regular candy because the ingredients cost more.

Can I buy individual pieces from the bulk bins?

Yes. Bulk bins allow you to select as few or as many pieces as you want and pay by weight. This is useful if you want to try something new without committing to a full package, or if you are assembling a custom mix for a gift or party.

Are the stores good for birthday parties or group events?

IT'SUGAR works well for groups interested in browsing and selecting candy together, but the stores are not set up for private events or large group purchases with special arrangements. For a birthday party, you could visit as a group activity and each person could select their own candy, or you could purchase novelty items ahead of time as party favors or gifts.

What international candies does IT'SUGAR carry?

Both locations stock candies from Europe, Asia, and Latin America, though the specific brands and products rotate. Common international sections include British chocolates and sweets, Japanese gummies and hard candies, and European licorice and chocolate. The selection varies by location and season, so what is in stock changes throughout the year.

Is there parking at both IT'SUGAR locations?

Yes. The Myrtle Beach location has parking in the surrounding shopping area. The Charleston location has street parking and nearby lots downtown. Both are accessible by car, though downtown Charleston parking can be more competitive during peak times.