Crystal Lagoons Brings Beach Life to South Carolina with Innovative Oak Hills Development

Published on December 19, 2024

Columbia, the vibrant capital of South Carolina, is set to redefine urban leisure as Crystal Lagoons introduces an idyllic beach destination in the heart of the city. Famous for its groundbreaking technology, the Miami-based multinational company has chosen Columbia for its first South Carolina venture, marking a milestone in its U.S. expansion.

This venture, spearheaded by Crystal Lagoons, adds to the company’s growing portfolio of over 275 U.S. projects at various stages of development. The Oak Hills project is a testament to the company’s vision of bringing coastal experiences to inland locations, revolutionizing urban lifestyles.

The Vision of Oak Hills: A Beach in the City
The Oak Hills project will feature a sprawling 4.8-acre crystalline lagoon surrounded by pristine white sandy beaches. Designed as a hybrid complex, the development includes both private and public zones. Residents and tourists staying at an on-site luxury hotel will enjoy exclusive access to private areas, further boosting the hospitality industry’s footprint in the region. Simultaneously, the public section will operate on a ticketed entry basis, offering accessibility to all.

The public area follows Crystal Lagoons’ celebrated Public Access Lagoons® (PAL®) model. It includes a rich assortment of entertainment and recreational amenities such as terraces, restaurants, parks, a dedicated children’s play zone, and even a wedding peninsula. Additionally, the site will host commercial spaces and sports facilities, making it a vibrant social hub for the community.

A Collaboration to Transform South Carolina
The Oak Hills development is a collaborative endeavor between Crystal Lagoons, Contender Development, Broadstreet, Inc., and Blue Lagoon Development LLC. The consortium plans to establish three more similar complexes in South Carolina, signaling significant growth for the region’s leisure and tourism sectors.

Joseph Baldassarra, president of Broadstreet, emphasized the community benefits of the project, saying, “The Crystal Lagoons® at Oak Hills will provide exceptional, safe, and enjoyable recreational spaces for all ages. This destination will enhance the quality of life for residents and become a focal point for the entire region.”

Ivan Manzur, Senior VP of Sales at Crystal Lagoons US Corp., added, “PAL® developments and Crystal Lagoons® technology have become highly attractive projects worldwide. We are confident this complex will be a resounding success.”

Sustainability at Its Core
A hallmark of Crystal Lagoons’ technology is its commitment to sustainability. PAL® projects reduce tourism-related carbon footprints by over 40% by minimizing travel to distant coastal destinations. By bringing beach experiences closer to home, such projects are not only eco-friendly but also promote local economic growth.

The crystalline lagoons are engineered to be resource-efficient, using up to 100 times fewer chemicals and just 2% of the energy required by conventional swimming pools. Verified by Bureau Veritas, a global certification leader, these lagoons consume 33 times less water than golf courses and 40% less water than parks of the same size. They can also utilize fresh, brackish, or even seawater, significantly reducing environmental impact.

A Growing Legacy of Innovation
Founded by scientist Fernando Fischmann, Crystal Lagoons is renowned for its innovation. With over 2,900 patents in 180 countries, the company continues to lead in creating sustainable, large-scale crystalline lagoons. This revolutionary concept has not only redefined urban recreation but also attracted global attention for its scalability and efficiency.

A New Era for Columbia’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry
The Oak Hills project is expected to stimulate Columbia’s tourism and hospitality industry, creating a destination that appeals to both locals and tourists. With luxurious accommodations, unique recreational opportunities, and eco-conscious design, Oak Hills will elevate South Carolina’s profile as a premier travel destination.

As the first of several planned developments in the state, Crystal Lagoons’ innovative approach is set to transform South Carolina, proving that the allure of coastal living is no longer confined to the coast. The Oak Hills complex will offer a slice of paradise, accessible to all, while setting new standards for urban leisure and sustainability.