Myrtle Beach’s Iconic Regency Towers Celebrates 50 Years of Memories
The sun-kissed shores of Myrtle Beach have always been a hotspot for vacationers, but one landmark has been a steadfast feature on the oceanfront for five decades—the majestic Regency Towers. Located near 25th Avenue South, this stunning 18-story building boasts 120 condos, with 35 three-bedroom and 85 two-bedroom options, making it one of the largest and most beloved resorts on the Grand Strand.
A Piece of History
Regency Towers opened its doors in October 1974, becoming the very first high-rise on the south end of Myrtle Beach. Back in those days, the area was mainly home to small mom-and-pop operations and older beachhouses. Jim Body, a forward-thinking developer from Roanoke, Virginia, had a vision that paved the way for this iconic structure. Interestingly enough, while the building was originally set to stand 23 stories high, plans were altered due to aviation regulations, resulting in the beautiful 18-story landmark we see today.
The Condo Life
These condos are not just mere vacation spots; they’re homes filled with joy, laughter, and family memories. Most units are privately owned, with just 11 permanent residents in the building. With the remaining condos serving as vacation rentals or personal retreats, it’s no wonder that many families return year after year. In fact, Steve Musselwhite, president of the Regency Towers board, expressed how the community feels more like family than just a collection of owners and guests: “We’ve seen a lot of our friends’ children grow up here, and now we see their kids,” he shared. A solid testament to the building’s allure!
Weathering the Storms
Of course, no coastal haven is without its challenges. Over the years, Regency Towers has weathered strong storms, with memories of Hurricane Hugo in 1989 particularly lingering in the minds of many. The building not only survived but became a symbol of resilience, highlighted by its structural integrity after the storm. The proactive boards of directors have consistently focused on maintenance and improvement, ensuring that Regency isn’t just a “Band-Aid” resort but rather a well-cared-for family destination.
Long-Term Employees Make It Feel Like Home
Supporting this welcoming atmosphere is a dedicated team of long-standing employees. Among them is Lynette Goss, who has worked at Regency Towers for an astonishing 37 years. “I started when I was just out of school,” Lynette said with a smile. “One day, the supervisor just walked out, and they asked me to step in. I was young and a bit scared but took the plunge, and I’m still here!” Her unwavering commitment is matched by General Manager Brian Barker, who has held his position for 17 remarkable years. “I love coming to work,” he stated. “We’re a family resort and I’ve gotten to know all of our owners and many visitors who come back year after year.”
Community Spirit and Charity
The spirit at Regency Towers extends beyond its owners and guests; it resonates deeply within the greater Myrtle Beach community. The resort is proud to provide a hospitality room for local law enforcement during busy bike weeks and hosts a Community Crime Watch group. It also partners with Jacob’s House, a wonderful organization offering vacation accommodations for children facing serious medical conditions and their families.
A Bright Future Ahead
This year marks a special milestone for Regency Towers, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The festivities have garnered attention, including a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of this historic occasion. There’s a spirit of optimism surrounding the building’s future. With ongoing renovations and upgrades, including a new roof and state-of-the-art elevators, many believe that Regency Towers will remain a popular and cherished destination for years to come. “I don’t see why we can’t continue to be a popular resort for many more years to come,” Barker confidently stated.
As Myrtle Beach continues to grow and evolve, one thing is certain—Regency Towers will remain a beloved fixture on the landscape, bringing countless families together and creating memories to last a lifetime. Here’s to another 50 years of “home away from home” vibes in beautiful Myrtle Beach!
