Boyd Gaming Corporation today announced that its newest property, South Coast Hotel and Casino, opened to the public this evening.

Bill Boyd, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Boyd Gaming, commented on the opening, "South Coast is ideally located to attract a growing locals market, as well as a significant number of tourists, given its strategic location to both residential and tourist corridor patrons."

Located five miles south of Mandalay Bay on Las Vegas Boulevard and adjacent to Interstate 15, South Coast is the first major casino entertainment property to be located in the fast-growing southern Las Vegas area. The $600 million property offers affordable luxury in the way of beautiful accommodations, distinctive dining experiences and a wide array of gaming entertainment amenities. In addition to a spacious, fully-equipped 80,000 square-foot casino, the development also includes seven restaurants, a 16 screen Century Theatre complex, a 64 lane bowling center, and expansive meeting, exhibit and convention space. Unique to South Coast will be a world-class equestrian center with seating for 4,400 spectators.

A second hotel tower is under construction and planned to open in the second quarter 2006, adding 700 guest rooms and suites. Opening with the second tower will be a luxurious spa with more than 20 treatment rooms, a nightclub and showroom, and an outdoor recreation area complete with oversized swimming pool and sand volleyball courts.

Headquartered in Las Vegas, Boyd Gaming Corporation is a leading diversified owner and operator of 19 gaming entertainment properties, located in Nevada, New Jersey, Mississippi, Illinois, Indiana and Louisiana. The Company recently opened the South Coast Hotel and Casino, a $600 million development located in the growing southern part of the Las Vegas valley. Boyd Gaming press releases are available at www.prnewswire.com. Additional news and information on Boyd Gaming can be found at www.boydgaming.com .

CONTACT: Financial, Ellis Landau, +1-702-792-7210, or Paul Chakmak, +1-702-792-7212, or Media, Rob Stillwell, +1-702-792-7353, robstillwell@boydgaming.com, all of Boyd Gaming Corporation