One of North Carolina’s premier vacation destinations, Goldston’s Beach at White Lake, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary this year with a major facelift and new name, The Grand Regal at Goldston’s Beach. The Grand Regal is a collaborative project to include Regal Resort Campground, Carolina Bay, The Venue, Goldston’s Motel, and Goldston’s Beach. The thriving business of Regal Resort, Carolina Bay, and The Venue was purchased by Jenna and Dean Hilton from Susan and Ronald Inman. Late Harry Womble’s daughter, Mollie Womble Owen, his grandson Jake Womble and the Hilton’s have invested in Goldston’s Motel and Beach. This new vision between these business partners will lead the resort into the future.
“We are thrilled that Goldston’s Beach is continuing into the fourth generation with Jake at the helm. I think my Dad would be proud and we are happy to carry on his legacy with this exciting and ambitious project,” said Mollie Womble Owen, Partner.
“My grandfather spent more than 80 years creating smiles and memories on this property. My vision is to build on that tradition. In some respects, COVID was a blessing for us. We’ve used this time to clean, paint, and modernize nearly every part of this property including upgrading our accommodations. We’ve also expanded to offer new amenities like kayak and paddleboard rentals, outdoor games, and more,” said Jake Womble, COO.
The vision of The Grand Regal is to implement more modern components that complement the nostalgia everyone has loved around the property. Goldston’s will continue to offer its video arcade, Putt-Putt golf course, vintage 1947 Allan Herschell Carousel, Dairy Queen, and iconic piers including a new pier for boaters to dock and enjoy the facility.
“Some of the rides had been on the property for decades. We hated to see them go, but I’m sure our guests will understand it was time for a change. Moving forward, we do plan to partner with some amusement companies and offer newer rides this summer,” Womble added.
Day parking passes will continue to be offered for local guests to enjoy swimming and the beach area beginning in May. The Grand Regal has also transformed what was once the Bingo Hall into The Glass Bottom, a relaxing place for adults to enjoy live music, food, and beverages overlooking White Lake’s 1,200 acres of crystal clear water and magnificent sunsets.
The Grand Regal has also partnered with The Presley Group to offer a new shopping and dining experience. Goldston’s Gift Shop will now be called The Wake Zone and will include more recreational items like wakeboards, swim gear, and brand attire. The Landing Place will offer daily seafood and dinner options while The Dive Sandwich Shop will include specialty burgers and sandwiches.
The Venue at The Grand Regal, an 8,000 sq. foot wedding and corporate meeting space, is already becoming a popular waterfront wedding destination.
“I’m excited to use my background in interior design and hospitality management to help brides visualize their dream weddings. With the renovation of our cottages, we’re able to offer our couples and their guests’ accommodations in addition to the catering and event supplies they would need for a full-service experience,” said Jenna Hilton, The Venue at Grand Regal, Owner.
Planning is underway for the 100th Anniversary celebration on June 26, 2021, with live music and family fun activities. Concerts and events are also planned for this fall.
“We’re excited about this new endeavor. There’s a lot to offer here at White Lake and we’re anticipating an eventful summer,” said Dean Hilton, Grand Regal Partner.
A new website was also launched: thegrandregal.com.
