Fresh air and ocean views – that’s the life. Being by the seaside offers plenty of chances to enjoy a slower pace of life. But if you’re an entrepreneur, it also offers a stream of business opportunities. Here are five ideas perfect for seaside entrepreneurs.
Beachwear and accessories boutique
People visit the seaside for sun, sand, and fun, and they often want the clothes and accessories to match. You could start a boutique selling stylish swimsuits, flip-flops, sun hats, and sunglasses. Try to find unique, locally made items, or sustainable and eco-friendly products to stock – these will help your place feel special and somewhere worth revisiting. For a broader customer base, combine your physical store with an online shop. Tourists who visit your boutique can shop again when they’re back home, and locals can check out your products year-round.
Beachside café or restaurant
When people visit the coast, good food and refreshing drinks are often high on their list. A When people visit the coast, good food and refreshing drinks are often high on their list. A beachside café or restaurant can serve both locals and tourists. Relaxing with a hot drink or fresh seafood while enjoying the ocean is the kind of atmosphere that sells itself. To stand out, you could focus on creating a unique menu using local ingredients or seafood specialities. Try to create a signature dish or a coastal twist on a classic recipe.
However, running a food business comes with its share of risks. From foodborne illnesses and accidents in the kitchen to liability concerns related to customers and employees, having the right insurance coverage is essential. General liability insurance can protect against claims related to customer injuries or property damage, while business interruption insurance helps cover lost income in case of unexpected closures due to extreme weather or supply chain issues.
Additionally, Employment Practices Liability Insurance – aka, EPLI insurance – is crucial, covering claims related to wrongful termination, harassment, or discrimination. Given that hospitality businesses often have high employee turnover, this type of insurance safeguards your café or restaurant from potential legal challenges, ensuring long-term stability and peace of mind.
Paddleboard and kayak rentals
The water itself is a great asset for a seaside entrepreneur. Offering paddleboard and kayak rentals attracts adventure-seekers and nature lovers. These activities are perfect for people wanting to explore the coast, whether it’s a calm paddle on a still day, or venturing out to see wildlife. You could start small by purchasing a few paddleboards and kayaks and some proper safety equipment (life jackets, whistles). You could add guided tours as an extra service, giving visitors a unique way to experience the area.
Boat tours and charters
If you have a boat or the means to buy one, boat tours, and charters can be a lucrative and rewarding business. If you enjoy being out on the water, this could be the dream business. You could help other people explore the ocean, whether it’s a sunset cruise, fishing charter, or wildlife spotting adventure. Think about some tailored trips you could offer, whether romantic sunset cruises for couples, family-friendly outings with fun activities for kids, or eco-tours for people to learn about marine conservation. Check out sites like Tripadvisor if you want to partner with a guide who can share interesting facts and history about the area.
Surf lessons and equipment rental
The seaside and surfing go hand in hand. If you’re a passionate surfer, or know someone who is, starting a surf school or rental business could be the perfect venture. Beginners love the opportunity to learn, and more experienced surfers might need a place in your town to rent boards and gear. Surf lessons can be offered individually or in groups. You could host surf camps and weekend workshops during the holidays. Rent out surfboards, wetsuits, and other gear to top up the revenue. You could partner with a team of certified surf instructors to provide quality instruction and ensure the safety of everyone who surfs.
Keep in mind
You might be excited about starting a seaside business, but just keep a few things in mind:
Whether you’re serving up delicious meals or helping beginners catch their first wave, your seaside business could become a beloved part of the community.
