Starting lifeguard pay is $12.00/HR + 2% of the revenue generated from your weekly chair rentals. First year guards can expect to make between $800 and $1000 for a 7 day work week. Checks are distributed weekly, usually Wednesdays before Surf School (training).
Cash tips are commonly awarded by renters, typically $5-20 for a weekly rental, usually given out at the beginning or end of the week. Tips can also be awarded at random by beach goers that appreciate your day to day work.