How to Set Up and Optimise Your Google Business Profile in Watamu

Google Business Profile is free, and it's still the fastest way for a Watamu business to become visible on Google Search and Maps. Most owners either haven't claimed theirs, or claimed it years ago and never finished setting it up. Here's the full process.

Step-by-step setup

• Search your business name on Google — if a profile already exists unclaimed, claim it; if not, create a new one at google.com/business.
• Choose the most specific category available (e.g. 'Beach Lodge' rather than just 'Hotel') — specificity helps you rank for more precise searches.
• Set your exact service area — Watamu, and any surrounding areas you genuinely serve.
• Add your real phone number, website, and hours — and keep hours updated for holidays and seasons.
• Verify the listing — usually by postcard or phone, depending on what Google offers for your business.

Optimisation checklist

• Upload at least 10-15 real photos — exterior, interior, product/room shots, and a few with people if possible.
• Write a complete business description using natural language that includes what you offer and where you are.
• Turn on messaging so enquiries can reach you directly through the profile.
• Post updates roughly weekly — offers, events, new menu items — Google rewards active profiles with better visibility.
• Respond to every review, positive or negative, within a few days.

This takes an afternoon to set up properly and a few minutes a week to maintain. For most small businesses in Watamu, it's the highest return on time of anything on this list.