The Grand Regal at Goldston’s Beach debuts this summer

WHITE LAKE — The Grand Regal at Goldston’s Beach will debut this year in the 100th anniversary celebration June 26 of the iconic Bladen County attraction.

The new name and partnership are a venture between Mollie Womble Owen, Jake Womble, and Jenna and Dean Hilton for properties that include Regal Resort Campground, Carolina Bay, The Venue, Goldston’s Motel and Goldston’s Beach. Owen is the daughter of the late Harry Womble, the former owner, and Jake Womble is his grandson.

A soft opening to the entire Grand Regal at Goldston’s Beach property is slated for May 8.

Continuing in the tradition of the setting will be a video arcade, putt-putt, a carousel with new rides, Dairy Queen, and a new pier. What was once a bingo hall will become The Glass Bottom, a place for adults to enjoy live music, food and beverages overlooking the 1,200-acre lake.

Access to the beach and lake will remain available through day parking passes. That begins May 1.

The Presley Group is partnering with the Grand Regal for shopping and dining experiences. The Wake Zone will replace Goldston’s Gift Shop, the Landing Place will offer seafood and dinner options, and the Dive Sandwich Shop will serve specialty burgers and sandwiches.

The Venue becomes the Venue at the Grand Regal, an indoor 8,000-square foot lakefront space for weddings, meetings and other affairs. It is already open and taking reservations.

Owners say the plan is to continue operations into the fall, including offering concerts.

All of those involved expressed optimism and appreciation in prepared statements included in a release.

“We are thrilled that Goldston’s Beach is continuing into the fourth generation with Jake at the helm,” Owen said. “I think my Dad would be proud and we are happy to carry on his legacy with this exciting and ambitious project.”

Jake Womble said the rides on the property were aged and needed to make way for new equipment.

“In some respects COVID was a blessing for us,” he said. “We’ve used this time to clean, paint, and modernize nearly every part of this property including upgrading our accommodations.”

Jenna Hilton said renovation of cottages creates an opportunity to provide better offerings to bridal parties.

Her husband Dean added, “There’s a lot to offer here at White Lake and we’re anticipating our guests enjoying an eventful summer at The Grand Regal.”