Max Schneider, founder of Sand and Salt Escapes, crossing his arms and smiling towards the camera with a lush garden in the background

Hi, I’m Max!

MEET THE FOUNDER

For a decade, I built a career in consulting, guiding leaders and teams through transformation - helping them navigate change, strengthen connections, and find clarity in the midst of complexity.

But in my own life, I found that the moments of deepest clarity and connection didn’t come from strategy meetings or boardrooms. They came from slowing down - being in nature, sharing meaningful conversations, and creating space to reflect. This realization led me to launch Sand and Salt Escapes, blending my expertise in facilitation with my passion for curating immersive experiences that bring people closer to themselves and each other.

Whether it’s lifelong friends reconnecting or families deepening their relationships, I believe that time together - when approached with intentionality - has the power to be truly transformative. And I believe that the best investment we can make is in the relationships that matter most.

My goal is to make it effortless for you to step away, be present, and return home feeling more connected - to yourself and the people who matter most.

I’m fortunate to love what I do for work, but when I’m not working, you can find me hiking, playing board games, or reading the latest NatGeo.

Authenticity

Bring all of yourself - your successes, struggles, and aspirations. Our retreats create a space where being real is celebrated.

Our Values

Exploration

Be open to discovering new experiences, perspectives, and ways of being - within yourself and with others.

Simplicity

Step away from the noise and embrace what truly matters: presence, connection, and peace.

Kindness

Approach every moment with thoughtfulness and compassion, creating deeper connections through empathy.

What We Believe

OUR DNA

Icon of nature with trees, water, mountains, and sun

Nature Restores Us

Breathtaking landscapes - the ocean, the desert, the mountains - have a profound impact that reminds us of what truly matters.s..

Icon of someone sitting with a lotus flower blooming behind them

Presence is the Greatest Gift

The most valuable thing we can give - to ourselves and others - is our full, undistracted attention.

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Memories Matter the Most

Years from now, it won’t be the accomplishments we remember. It will be the experiences we shared with the people we love.

Plan Your Escape

Aerial shot of a man floating in a plunge pool surrounded by plants

We pride ourselves on curating highly-tailored experiences.

Reach out to start a conversation and learn how we can craft an unforgettable retreat for you and your group.