Bed Bug Concerns Rise in Myrtle Beach
MYRTLE BEACH — Just when you thought it was safe to check into the hotel for a sunny getaway, here comes some unsettling news. The Crown Reef Resort and Waterpark, a familiar face in our seaside escape, is facing yet another bed bug lawsuit. Yes, you heard that right. This marks the fourth lawsuit against the resort this year alone. Now, that’s a lot of buzz for a place that should be all about fun in the sun! 🎉☀️
What’s the Buzz All About?
According to court records, Crown Reef Resort has seen a surge in bed bug-related legal troubles, more so than nearly 100 other hotels across the area. They were first sued back in February, then again in June and September, with the latest lawsuit hitting the courts on October 16. Talk about a roll that nobody wants to be on! A representative from the resort wasn’t available for comment, but let’s hope they’re taking this matter seriously.
A Tough Battle Against Bed Bugs
Trevor Eddy, a personal injury attorney from Columbia, is representing plaintiffs in three of those four Crown Reef cases. He’s noticed that Myrtle Beach has been landing more than its fair share of bed bug complaints. He said, “There is a growing list of repeat offenders. I don’t get these calls every day for Charleston, Beaufort, or Hilton Head. It is just Myrtle Beach.” Well, that’s not exactly the badge of honor we want to flaunt, is it?
Bed Bugs: The Tiny Terrorists
For those who might not know, bed bugs are tiny little critters—flat, brown, and about the size of a quarter-inch—that can be quite the nuisance. They typically hide near the piping and seams of mattresses and box springs, nestled in the cracks of bed frames and headboards. While they don’t spread diseases, their bites can lead to allergic reactions and skin infections. Definitely not the kind of souvenir you want from a vacation!
It’s essential for hotel guests to be vigilant. The U.S. EPA recommends checking beds and carpets for signs of these unwanted guests—look for rusty stains, tiny eggs, or the bugs themselves. If you’re planning a stay at any hotel, a quick inspection could save you a lot of trouble down the line.
Agency Limitations Keeping Us in the Dark
Adding to the frustration, the South Carolina Department of Public Health doesn’t have much regulatory power regarding hotels and bed bugs. They do handle state-licensed healthcare facilities that get infested but stop short of tracking complaints in the hospitality sector. It seems like a bit of a gray area that could leave hotel-goers in a vulnerable position. So, travelers, be on the lookout!
Recent Lawsuit Details
The recent October 16 lawsuit brought by four parents claims their kids were bitten by bed bugs during a stay at the resort last summer. They reported that the infestation was found in their mattresses, bedding, and carpets. The complaint alleges that the resort’s management should have known about the issue and failed to act before the guests were affected. Ouch, that stings more than just a bed bug bite!
Tackling a Tough Problem
While bed bugs can hitch a ride on luggage or clothing, the executive director for the Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association, Victoria Tobin, maintains that cleanliness is still a priority for most hotels in the area. With approximately 18 million visitors annually, maintaining high standards is key. But as we’ve seen, some places fail to meet these expectations, which can really dim the sunshine vibe we all cherish.
The Bottom Line
While Myrtle Beach is a fantastic place to visit, it’s also evident that we need to stay informed about the potential for bed bugs—especially at some resorts. Remember to check your accommodations, and don’t hesitate to speak up if you notice something off. That way, we can all enjoy those golden sandy beaches and beautiful sunny skies without the pesky bugs tagging along!
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
