Beachside watersports hire kiosk

Tourists and holidaymakers, locals on weekends, and visitors staying nearby who want a spontaneous activity.

Hourly and daily hire fees, wetsuit and accessory add-ons, and extras such as lessons, guided paddles and small retail items like sunscreen.

• Customer service and upselling
• Water safety awareness
• Managing staff, rosters and stock
• Basic equipment repair

• Lease, licence or permit terms for foreshore and public land, which can be competitive and vary by council and state
• Council approval for the premises or kiosk and any signage
• Public liability insurance for hire and any lessons, plus workers compensation once you hire staff
• Water safety obligations, life jacket rules and first aid training. Check with your state's maritime or marine safety authority
• Very seasonal income and weather risk, so plan cash flow for the quiet months
• A working with children check if you run lessons for under 18s, with requirements depending on your state

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on the premises or shed, how many kayaks, boards and wetsuits you stock, and fit-out. Get quotes before committing to a site.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on location, season, weather and how much gear you hire out. Income is very seasonal, so plan cash flow for the quiet months.

Check lease, licence or permit terms for foreshore and public land, council approval for the kiosk and signage, public liability insurance, and water safety and first aid requirements. Lessons for under 18s may need a working with children check.