Working at a beautiful beach resort sounds glamorous and of course, many of these exotic locales offer plenty of adventure, fabulous beaches, and a way to encounter a lifestyle you may not otherwise experience. However, before you take the leap, be sure you understand the realities of resort life from the hospitality side of the business.

You’ll certainly get to visit some of the most beautiful locations in the world, but keep in mind that you’ll be working. It’s possible you’ll be living in less-than luxurious accommodations with little privacy, but you’ll wake up to the same spectacular scenery the guests are paying to enjoy. If you can manage your work and play time well enough to take advantage of all the adventure and fun the beach life can offer, it may be just the opportunity you’re looking for.

Pros

• First and foremost, the travel opportunities to visit exotic locations with first-class facilities and an upscale environment.
• You’ll meet co-workers who value travel and adventure and build new relationships with like-minded people.
• If you love the beach, you’ll be working and living in your favorite surroundings while making a living doing something you enjoy, such as sports or activity director.
• You’ll gain some valuable work and life experience, especially if you take an international job.
• You may enjoy some of the facilities and meals (and maybe even housing) free or at a discount.
• If your job allows you to select shifts, you can enjoy a flexible work schedule to spend time on the water or with friends on an adventure.
• The work is often seasonal, so you needn’t make a long-term commitment if you choose not to stay.
• Depending on the type of job, there may not be any requirement for prior work experience.

Cons

• The hours are often long, and sometimes you’ll be assigned late or double shifts. You can get burned out more quickly with this kind of schedule.
• Depending on your position, you may receive tips (which can be generous), but for non-management jobs, the hourly pay can leave you living on a budget.
• Many of the jobs involve physical work – housekeeping, wait-staff, maintenance, etc. – and you have to be prepared to cover an additional shift at the last minute or during a rush period.
• You often work 7 days a week during the high season. There may not be a lot of time off to enjoy “paradise.”
• Even when you are off-duty, you are surrounded by co-workers and guests who still see you as an employee and you have to wear your “game face” when you’re out in public.
• You really need to be a “people person” since you’re surrounded by guests most of the time. When you’re on the property, you must be pleasant and approachable.
• It can be hard to establish boundaries away from work since you’re around the same people you work with all the time.

​How do you know if Resort Work is a Good Fit for You?

Clearly, there are parts of beach resort life you will love, but there are also certain parts you may not… it all depends on you. What do you need to know before you decide to take the plunge?

Resort work is a great fit for someone who is outgoing, loves to be around people, is enthusiastic, fun, and prepared to work really hard. For those with a great attitude and the stamina to handle long hours of physical work, it can be a very rewarding experience.

The best resort employees are focused on customer service and are interested in having an interesting experience in an amazing environment. You need to be very organized and prepared to solve problems quickly while remaining calm and patient.

So, before you apply for any resort position, be sure you understand the job, where you’ll be living, how you’ll be paid, and how many hours or shifts you’ll be working before you sign on the dotted line. If you find the right opportunity that aligns with your overall career goals, working in paradise can be one of the best experiences of your life!

Apply for hotel & resort jobs!