When your business relies on the great outdoors, Mother Nature — and local regulations — can throw unexpected challenges your way. Add in busy crowds, and handling a beach closure during peak season can feel like a major setback.
But a closure doesn’t have to mean lost revenue. With the right approach, you can pivot and keep your customers engaged — even without the beach.
Stay ahead with real-time beach closure updates
Beaches may close for various reasons, including rough surf, red tide, and crowd control measures. Knowing about these closures as soon as they happen is crucial.
- Leverage technology: Use live feeds, weather apps, or partner with local authorities to receive immediate updates.
- Keep customers informed: Set up email or text alerts to notify clients about changes.
- Stay proactive: Regularly check weather conditions, tides, and local regulations to anticipate closures in advance.
Keep up with your local city government and ordinances that may be in place during busy tourist seasons. Sign up for newsletters, join the chamber of commerce, or follow the city updates on social media.
For example, cities such as Miami Beach and Panama City Beach have stricter rules during spring break. Understanding these regulations can help tour operators plan accordingly and avoid disruptions.
Turn closures into new adventure opportunities
If the beach is closed, don’t think you’ll miss out entirely on generating revenue. Offering alternative activities that align with your tour company can redirect potential lost sales during beach closures.
If the beach is closed due to rough waves, city ordinances, or non-weather-related factors, offer inland adventures: Think kayaking or paddleboarding on nearby rivers or lakes.
Get off the water and onto land with educational opportunities such as nature walks or eco-friendly activities. Guests may love adventures such as a seashell walk, photography lessons, or creating art with natural materials.
Take your guests on guided hikes. Highlight the region’s natural beauty through scenic hikes or invite guests to learn about the history of the area’s beaches.
Boost bookings with creative partnerships
Building relationships with other local businesses strengthens your company year-round — and can be a game-changer when closures disrupt your usual operations.
Collaborate with tour guides, restaurants or adventure outfitters to create package deals. Offer joint promotions such as discounts on dining with a tour booking.
Pro tip: Use the FareHarbor Distribution Network (FHDN) to easily partner with other operators and boost your revenue.
Managing customer expectations and handling cancellations professionally
Should you have to cancel, notify your guests ASAP. Provide transparent communication and offer alternative solutions or rescheduled dates.
When possible, provide discounts or vouchers for future bookings to encourage customer loyalty and keep them coming back.
Be transparent about your cancellation and refund policies, but aim for flexibility where possible to ensure customer satisfaction.
Pro tip: Add Trip Protection to your book form to offer cancellation flexibility to your customers while boosting your bottom line.
Keep your business thriving — rain or shine
Beach closures may be unpredictable, but with a proactive strategy, you can turn potential disruptions into new opportunities.
By staying informed, offering alternative activities, and managing customer expectations effectively, you can keep your business running smoothly, even when the beach is off-limits.
