Families have been calling our sandy stretch of paradise their home-away-from-home since the 1960s, back when the area was known as Lake Arrowhead Campground. A lot has changed since those early days. What began as a charming coastal escape has grown into the Kingston Resorts you know today—a sprawling 145-acre Myrtle Beach vacation destination.

Take a glimpse into the past to discover what’s changed, what hasn’t, and why generations of families return to our slice of Grand Strand paradise year after year.

Back in the Day

Starting in the 1980s, Kingston Resorts entered an exciting chapter of growth and transformation. We’ve stayed true to our roots while introducing fresh experiences for our guests—from pickleball courts and Carolina-born dining to sustainability initiatives. And if you look closely, you can still see hints of our history, shaped by the British company Rank Hotels who maintained the property until 1996. 

This connection is why so many areas of Kingston Resorts feature names inspired by England. The condo towers—Margate, Brighton, Southampton, and Northampton—and the surrounding areas like Richmond Park and Windermere by the Sea all carry an English charm that has remained part of Kingston Resorts’ identity.

During this time of growth, Kingston Resorts flourished—expanding in both size and reputation. A major milestone was the opening of Splash! Waterpark—a family favorite that’s now reimagined as Currents Seaside Entertainment. 

Generations of Memories

Guests have been vacationing at Kingston Resorts for generations, drawn back year after year. One key reason? Room to breathe. With renowned hotel brands offering more spacious rooms and suites, families can stretch out and truly relax—a comfort not always found in standard hotel stays.

Nature lovers will find their place here, too. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-drenched beach or the shade of the park, there’s a perfect spot for you. Our property was carefully built around preserving the area’s century-old live oak trees, creating shaded nooks ideal for reading, picnicking, or simply unwinding.

For many, the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort is a cornerstone of their family tradition. When it opened in 1973, it was one of the first high-rises on the beach, known for its top-floor nightclub that shone like a beacon with a disco ball and flashing lights visible for miles. Guests often share memories of meeting their spouse here and now return with their own children to create new ones.

Splashing Through the Years

Another not-so-secret to Kingston Resorts’ decades of family fun? Happy kids mean happy parents. While the resort has evolved over the years, some things never change—kids always love an afternoon at the waterpark. When Splash! Waterpark opened in 2000, the main attraction was the six-foot dump bucket. Now, the reimagined Currents Seaside Entertainment offers two parks by the Embassy Suites Myrtle Beach hotel: one with larger slides for older kids and another designed for younger ones. 

Poolside relaxation also received an upgrade. For parents in need of a well-deserved break, there are over 350 new chaise lounge chairs, a hammock garden, daybeds, and new cabanas offering pool, ocean, or waterpark views.

Tap Into South Carolina Brewing History

Kingston Resorts continues to evolve, blending new experiences with the history of our resort and the state we call home. One delicious example? The opening of Black Drum Brewing in the spring of 2023, a laid-back gathering spot showcasing a true taste of South Carolina brewing tradition through local beer and fare. All 40 taps come from the states of North and South Carolina and the entire menu is Carolina-born and brewed. 

Beyond the taps, Black Drum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of brewing in the region, highlighting how these two states helped shape America’s craft beer landscape.

Sample pilsners and ciders to stouts and sours and more—all of which can be paired with delicious dishes—in the outdoor beer garden or ocean-view dining room.

Make New Memories

Whether you were here back in the day when the top of the Hilton Myrtle Beach Hotel was a nightclub or if you’re bringing your family to our waterpark for the first time, Kingston Resorts has a way of turning visits into traditions. Start planning your dream vacation today by exploring our offers and vacation packages.