Quick SEO Wins for Small Tourism Businesses
Simple steps you can take today to get found online.
Let’s be real — when you run a small tourism business, SEO probably isn’t high on your to-do list. Between managing bookings, updating your socials, and keeping guests happy, the idea of “search engine optimisation” can feel… well, overwhelming.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be an expert to make your website easier to find on Google.
Whether you run a boutique stay, local tour, winery, or experience-based business, these are a few quick and easy SEO wins that can make a big difference — no tech skills required.
1. Rename Your Image Files Before Uploading
Uploading photos named IMG_1234.jpg or screenshot-final-final.jpg? Google has no idea what that means.
Quick fix: Before you upload your images, rename the file using clear, descriptive language that includes your business type and location. Example: port-campbell-eco-cabin-exterior.jpg
Why it helps: Google uses image file names to understand what’s on your website — which helps your pages show up in search results (especially image searches).
2. Add Alt Text to Every Image
Alt text = a simple description of your image. It helps visually impaired users navigate your site, and yep — it also helps your SEO.
Quick fix: In your website builder (like Squarespace), make sure every image has alt text that explains what’s in the photo. Example: “Couple enjoying wine tasting at winery”
Why it helps: Search engines use alt text to better understand your content. It’s one of the easiest ways to boost accessibility and SEO in one go.
3. Use Local Keywords (The Way Real People Search)
If you only use generic words like “farm stay” or “walking tours,” you’re competing with every other similar business on the internet.
Quick fix: Use phrases that include your location and what you do. Think like your ideal customer:
“Pet-friendly accommodation near the 12 Apostles”
“Cheese tastings in the Otways”
“Guided rainforest walks in Victoria”
Why it helps: Using these kinds of location-specific keywords helps your website show up in local search results — exactly where your next booking could be coming from.
4. Tidy Up Your Page Titles and Descriptions
This is what shows up in Google results — so make it count.
Quick fix:
Keep your page titles short and clear (50–60 characters)
Write compelling meta descriptions (around 150 characters)
Include your business name, location, and what you offer
Why it helps: These small tweaks can improve your visibility and make people more likely to click when they see your site in search results.
5. Add Internal Links (Guide Your Visitors)
An internal link is just a link from one page of your site to another — and it’s a powerful way to keep visitors engaged.
Quick fix: Link to your FAQs from your bookings page, or add a “Related Blog Posts” section at the end of each post.
Why it helps: Internal links help Google understand your site’s structure and keep visitors exploring longer — both great for SEO.
6. Create (or Update) Your Google Business Profile
If you only do one thing from this list, let it be this.
Quick fix: Claim your free Google Business profile Add your contact details, open hours, location, and a few great photos Ask happy customers for reviews
Why it helps: When someone searches “wine tasting near me” or “places to stay near the 12 Apostles,” Google often shows local listings before regular websites. Having a strong Google profile means you’re more likely to show up there.
A Final Word (No Tech Degree Required)
I get it — SEO feels like a lot. But small, consistent steps really do make a difference. You don’t need to overhaul everything at once. Just pick one of these wins and start there.
And if you want help figuring out what to fix first?
Check out my Website Health Check — a quick, personalised video review covering SEO, user experience, and structure. It’s like having a second pair of eyes on your site (without the overwhelm).