Exciting Changes Coming to Surfside Beach: Former Water Park to Be Redeveloped!
Surfside Beach, S.C. is buzzing with excitement as the plans for the former Wild Water & Wheels water park are taking a new turn! This beloved spot has been part of the Surfside landscape for over 30 years, but it has sat empty since it closed its doors in 2022. Now, town leaders have given a thumbs-up to a preliminary subdivision plan that will transform the 16-acre property into nine separate lots. That’s right, folks—big changes are on the horizon!
What Happened to the Water Park?
Let’s take a little trip down memory lane. Wild Water & Wheels was a cherished destination for families, bringing splashes of joy for more than three decades. However, when it closed in 2022, many locals felt a wave of nostalgia but also concern about what the future held for the site. The owner, Mark Lazarus of Lazarus Entertainment, initially had ambitious plans for a high-density development boasting over 300 homes. This plan, however, was met with significant pushback from residents and town officials, prompting its cancellation.
New Plans for the Property
After listening to community feedback, Lazarus returned in July 2023 with a fresh approach. In his new proposal, he suggested the possibility of adding a convenience store, a gas station, and a car wash to the property. It appears that this revised vision has resonated with some local leaders as they now see an opportunity for new businesses to come to town! Mayor Robert Krouse has even indicated that there are interested buyers already eyeing the land, making the potential sale of individual lots a reality.
Potential Developments on the Horizon
But what could these changes entail for Surfside Beach? Aside from the obvious new businesses, the plans also include the construction of a new road that will branch off from 10th Avenue S. This could not only improve traffic flow but also make the area more accessible, which is something both residents and visitors will surely appreciate.
A Financial Peek
For those who love a good number, here’s a juicy tidbit: According to Horry County land records in 2022, the property was valued at a whopping $4 million! That’s a significant chunk of change, and it certainly reflects the potential that this area holds for future development.
What’s Next for Surfside Beach?
As the town eagerly anticipates what’s next, many residents are keeping their fingers crossed that these changes will breathe new life into the area. With the prospect of new businesses coming, the local economy may get a delightful boost. And, of course, this could mean more jobs for the community, which is always welcome news!
In a nutshell, the future is looking bright for Surfside Beach as the once vacant Wild Water & Wheels site gears up for a fresh start. Whether you’re a local or a frequent visitor, there’s no doubt that the changes ahead will have everyone buzzing with anticipation. So, stay tuned—Surfside Beach is on the cusp of a transformation, and you won’t want to miss it!
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.
