Ron Rice, the founder of Hawaiian Tropic, began his career with little more than ambition and a homemade tanning oil blend. In the mid-1960s, while working as a high school teacher in Daytona Beach, Florida, Rice mixed coconut oil and other ingredients in his garage, creating a product that stood out for its tropical scent and effective formula. He sold his first bottles to lifeguards and beachgoers, quickly gaining a loyal following. By 1969, Rice officially launched Hawaiian Tropic, turning his side project into a full-fledged business. His hands-on approach and charismatic marketing—like sending models to promote the brand at events—helped Hawaiian Tropic grow into a household name.

Rice’s rise to fame was fueled by his knack for branding and relentless hustle. He capitalized on the booming sun-care industry by positioning Hawaiian Tropic as more than just sunscreen—it embodied a carefree, tropical lifestyle. Rice’s bold advertising campaigns, including iconic bikini contests, amplified the brand’s visibility. His ability to connect with consumers through sensory appeal—think coconut fragrance and vibrant packaging—set Hawaiian Tropic apart from competitors. By the 1980s, Rice had built a multimillion-dollar empire, proving that a simple idea, paired with smart marketing, could turn a small venture into a global success.

Ron Rice’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Ron Rice’s estimated net worth is around $300 million. This figure reflects his earnings from his successful career in the surf and lifestyle industry, along with smart investments. While exact details aren’t publicly disclosed, his wealth stems from decades of business growth and brand expansion.

Ron Rice’s Career

Ron Rice is best known as the founder of Hawaiian Tropic, a globally recognized suncare brand he started in 1969. His entrepreneurial vision turned a small operation into a multimillion-dollar empire. Rice’s career also includes ventures in marketing and philanthropy, solidifying his reputation as a savvy businessman.

Ron Rice’s Other Ventures

Beyond Hawaiian Tropic, Rice has invested in real estate and other lifestyle brands. He’s also been involved in motorsports, sponsoring racing teams. His diverse portfolio showcases his ability to spot opportunities outside his core industry, further boosting his financial success.

Ron Rice’s Assets

Rice owns multiple properties, including luxury homes in Florida and Hawaii. His asset portfolio likely includes high-value vehicles, art, and private investments. While specifics are private, his lifestyle and business track record suggest substantial holdings in tangible and intangible assets.

Ron Rice’s Annual Income

Rice’s annual income fluctuates based on investments and business performance, but estimates suggest it ranges in the millions. Revenue streams include royalties, real estate, and residual earnings from his brands. His financial stability is reinforced by passive income and smart wealth management.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Ron Rice

1. Who is Ron Rice?

Ron Rice was the founder of Hawaiian Tropic, a popular suncare brand known for its tropical-themed products and beauty pageants. He built the company from scratch and turned it into a multimillion-dollar business.

2. What was Ron Rice’s net worth at the time of his death?

At the time of his death in 2020, Ron Rice’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 million, primarily accumulated through his successful business ventures, including Hawaiian Tropic.

3. How did Ron Rice make his money?

Ron Rice made his fortune by founding Hawaiian Tropic in 1969. He started the company with a small investment and grew it into a globally recognized brand, later selling it for a significant profit.

4. Did Ron Rice sell Hawaiian Tropic?

Yes, Ron Rice sold Hawaiian Tropic to Playtex Products Inc. in 2007 for an undisclosed amount, though reports suggest it was a multimillion-dollar deal.

5. What other businesses was Ron Rice involved in?

Aside from Hawaiian Tropic, Ron Rice was involved in real estate investments and owned several properties. He also had interests in motorsports and sponsored racing events.

6. How did Ron Rice start Hawaiian Tropic?

Ron Rice started Hawaiian Tropic by mixing his own suntan oil in trash cans and selling it locally in Florida. His marketing strategy, including beauty pageants and tropical branding, helped the company grow rapidly.

7. Was Ron Rice involved in philanthropy?

Yes, Ron Rice was known for his charitable contributions, including donations to children’s hospitals, cancer research, and local community initiatives in Florida.

8. What was Ron Rice’s early life like?

Ron Rice was born in 1940 in Pennsylvania and later moved to Florida. He worked as a teacher and lifeguard before launching Hawaiian Tropic, which became his life’s biggest success.

9. Did Ron Rice face any legal or financial challenges?

While Ron Rice enjoyed immense success, he faced some legal disputes over trademark and branding issues related to Hawaiian Tropic. However, these did not significantly impact his overall wealth.

10. What is Ron Rice’s legacy?

Ron Rice’s legacy lies in building Hawaiian Tropic into a household name and pioneering innovative marketing strategies in the beauty and skincare industry. His entrepreneurial spirit continues to inspire many.