Owner/managers perceptions on the influence of the accommodation sector on tourism and local well-being in Coffee Bay

This research focuses on the role that the accommodation sector plays in the overall development of the tourism industry in the rural town of Coffee Bay, South Africa. Specifically, the study considers the extent to which the accommodation sector contributes to tourism development in Coffee Bay, and how the local community benefits from the accommodation sub-sector in the area. To achieve this, the study employed a qualitative research design in the collection of the primary data. A purposive sampling technique was used in targeting the accommodation sector managers/owners in the community of Coffee Bay, with a semi-structured interview schedule. Key findings from the study reveal that, the accommodation sector superiors of Coffee Bay view the sector as playing an important role in the development of tourism in the area. Moreover, there is evidence that the accommodation sector provides employment opportunities for the local community, while also contributing to the general upliftment of the lives of the local people. The research concludes that the accommodation sector is an important cornerstone for any future developmental agenda that seeks to leverage tourism opportunities for local citizens, especially in the rural context where there is dire need and high unemployment.