Third Coast Surf Shop opens new location in New Buffalo

Kathy Jennings | Thursday, May 22, 2014

Third Coast Surf Shop got its start in New Buffalo in 2005. It moved to a second, larger location to accommodate growing business in 2012 and now has moved to its third spot in New Buffalo, a place that's in a better location to attract shoppers.

The latest location offers 1,500 square feet and six full-time employees work there during the high season (which has already begun this year). The store at 110 N. Whittaker St. features more gear than has been offered in previous stores, says owner Ryan Gerard.

Beach wear, including clothing, sandals, sunglasses, surfboards, skateboards, stand-up paddleboards, and accessories all are found there.

Stand-up paddle boards especially have proven to be a big hit among Gerard's customers. So many have purchased then that Gerard says he believes his store is one of the top selling retailers of the boards in the United States.

Rental business also is on the rise as the store has increased its rental options. Third Coast Surf Shop now has four rental sites for kayaks and paddleboards and in Southwest Michigan: the Galien River on Red Arrow Highway in New Buffalo, New Buffalo City Beach, the Paw Paw River on Graham Ave. and Jean Klock Beach in Benton Harbor.

Third Coast Surf Shop also offers kids' beach camps and surfboard and paddleboard rentals and lessons in Southwest Michigan. Beach Camps are available for kids ages 8-12, and provide an opportunity to spend quality active time at the beach. They learn surfing, build sand castles and might even play soccer. The New Buffalo Camp takes place at New Buffalo City Beach and our St. Joseph Camp is held at Jean Klock Beach in Benton Harbor.

And another recent addition to the lineup is paddleboard yoga at the Paw Paw River and on Jean Klok beach, depending upon weather conditions.

In 2011, he added a store in St. Joseph where business now is going well with the support of local residents there.

Third Coast also has a thriving online store. For more information, check here.

Source: Ryan Gerard, Third Coast Surf Shop