Beach Bums returns to Punta Gorda with new location

Beach Bums, a popular gift shop that closed at Fishermen’s Village more than five years ago, reopened in Punta Gorda with a new location and updated concept. 

Owners Cathy and Bob Perry celebrated the return of Beach Bums Coastal Gifts & Decor with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Feb. 12 hosted by the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce and the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce. The store is now located at 150 Laishley Court, Suite 112. 

The Perrys previously operated two successful businesses at Fishermen’s Village for many years. Shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic, Cathy Perry decided to semi-retire and close Beach Bums, while Bob Perry continued producing fudge and popcorn for another year at their Simply Sweet confectionery shop. 

Cathy Perry said retirement did not prove fulfilling, prompting her to explore creative pursuits. She began making all-season wreaths, which quickly gained attention among friends and customers. 

As interest in her creations grew, she began considering a storefront where she could display and sell her work. She eventually found a vacant space at Laishley Court, leading to the reopening of Beach Bums in a new form. 

The redesigned shop features Perry’s custom wreaths alongside a range of coastal-themed merchandise, including home decor, nautical gifts, jewelry, sunglasses, purses and souvenirs. The store also offers beach-inspired art, greeting cards and baby gifts. 

Many visitors to Punta Gorda seek mementos of their trip, while local residents and new homeowners often look for decorative items with a coastal theme, Perry said. The store is designed to appeal to both audiences. 

To enhance the shopping experience, the store includes a Children’s Cove play area where children can gather while adults browse the merchandise. 

When developing the concept for the new store, the Perrys conducted research to better understand the preferences of residents and visitors. They aimed to create a space filled with distinctive items that are not commonly found elsewhere. 

Although many of the wall art pieces are not original works, the Perrys said they carefully select items they believe offer a unique appearance. The collection includes metal ships, mirrors, musical instruments and images of marine life, such as turtles and fish. 

Turtle-themed items are currently among the most popular products, Cathy Perry said, adding that demand has made them difficult to keep in stock. 

The couple brings years of business experience to their latest venture. They met while working at Cathy Perry’s family-owned automotive and towing business in Massachusetts. After marrying, they relocated to Florida, where they continued their work as business owners. 

Cathy Perry said growing up in a family business made the transition to operating her own company a natural step. 

The store has drawn steady interest since reopening, with customers visiting shortly after doors opened Feb. 19. 

Beach Bums Coastal Gifts & Decor is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.