The Beach Company, a leader in residential and commercial real estate, proudly marks its 80th anniversary this year. In celebration of this historic milestone, the company is ushering in a new era of leadership with the appointment of Dan Doyle as President. Doyle succeeds long-serving President John Darby, who will continue his role as CEO and chairman of the board.  

Founded in 1945 by JC Long, The Beach Company was established with the purchase of Isle of Palms, S.C. to build residential homes providing low-cost housing for veterans returning from World War II. Today, The Beach Company has built a legacy that spans generations, deeply rooted in the Charleston region and impacting more than 25 communities throughout the Southeastern U.S.   

Building a Legacy  

In 1975, Charles S. Way succeeded Long as President, igniting a period of growth for the company. A visionary leader, businessman and philanthropist, Way was known for his sharp business acumen and bold initiatives, such as the 1988 multimillion-dollar purchase of Kiawah Island. Another notable investment tied to Way includes Wild Dunes Resort on the Isle of Palms, South Carolina in the 1970s. Under his leadership, The Beach Company further solidified its reputation as a trusted name in residential and commercial real estate across South Carolina. His tenure saw the company revitalize Charleston’s downtown with the redevelopment of theater properties and expansion of its retail and residential portfolios in Isle of Palms and Mt. Pleasant, strengthening its foundation as a family-owned business and setting the stage for continued success.  

By 1999, John Darby, Long’s grandson, took the helm as President, driving the company’s growth through strategic expansion and innovation. At the time of Darby’s succession, The Beach Company operated with a dozen employees. Under his leadership, The Beach Company significantly expanded its portfolio to include Class A multifamily, mixed-use, commercial and industrial properties across 27 cities in the Southeastern U.S. One of its most notable projects is the redevelopment of the landmark Sergeant Jasper property into The Jasper, a luxury 12-story mixed-use building in historic downtown Charleston that serves as the company’s headquarters.  

In 2017, The Beach Company announced the residential development of Kiawah River, spanning 2,000 acres between its 100-acre farm and 20 miles of waterfront on Johns Island, S.C. The community seamlessly blends residential, retail and hospitality offerings with custom and semi-custom homes featuring innovative sea islands architecture, while also supporting multiple working farms, including a goatery, heirloom beef cattle and Rosebank Farms, a farmstand that provides fresh, local food to residents and the Johns Island community. Kiawah River is also home to The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection, among a number of other natural and planned amenities.   

Following Darby’s distinguished 33-year tenure as President, Doyle, who also serves as COO, assumes leadership with seasoned expertise, a proven track record in real estate and a significant contribution to The Beach Company’s success. With over 20 years at The Beach Company, Doyle brings vast experience and success working with all facets of the organization and is the company’s first President from outside the Darby and Way families. His vision for the future focuses on building upon the company’s history while exploring new opportunities and growth.  

An Expanding Presence  

As a fifth-generation, family-owned business, The Beach Company has played a pivotal role in shaping the Charleston region and extending into key Southeastern markets such as Columbia, Greenville, Nashville, Richmond, Chattanooga, Orlando, Charlotte and Huntsville. Over the course of eight decades, the company has contributed significantly to the region’s growth.   

Responsible for over 700 employees across its headquarters and subsidiaries including Kiawah River, The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection, Gulf Stream Construction, Beach Residential, Beach Commercial and Beach Real Estate Funds, The Beach Company has influenced the creation of iconic properties and communities, establishing itself as an industry leader. The company’s remarkable impact is rooted in its dedication to high-quality, sustainable development and a commitment to enhancing the lives of those who live and work in the communities in which it serves.