As businesses across San Diego seek innovative ways to boost employee satisfaction and productivity, a new trend is making waves: replacing traditional gym memberships with memberships to a collective of beach rental shops. This aptly named “Corporate Fun Membership” is a groundbreaking program spearheaded by local entrepreneur Matt Gardner, and offers employees unlimited access to recreational beach equipment at several San Diego rental shops all for an affordable monthly fee. From bikes and surfboards to stand-up paddle boards and beach chairs, employees can embrace the San Diego coastline while staying active, reducing stress, and creating lasting memories with their family, friends and co-workers.
Unlike conventional gym memberships that often confine exercise to indoor routines, this beach rental collective taps into the unique allure of San Diego’s “blue spaces”—environments like beaches and oceans proven to enhance mental and physical well-being. Studies, such as a 2020 report from the Journal of Environmental Psychology, show that time spent in blue spaces reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts cognitive function. Another study by the University of Exeter found that coastal proximity correlates with lower rates of anxiety and depression, offering a compelling case for this wellness shift.
“This program is about leveraging the best of San Diego’s coastal lifestyle to enrich our business community and support employee wellness,” said Matthew Gardner, founder of the beach rental collective. “We’re not just offering exercise—we’re fostering joy, relaxation, and a deeper connection to the workplace through unforgettable experiences.”
The collective’s model is simple yet transformative. Companies enroll their employees in the program, granting unlimited access to rent bikes, surfboards, bodyboards, skate equipment, beach chairs, umbrellas, and paddle boards at any of the three locations. Employees can hit the beach after work, on weekends, or during team-building outings, blending physical activity with the therapeutic benefits of the ocean. For businesses, the program delivers a high-impact, low-cost benefit that enhances workplace culture and retention. For employees, it’s an invitation to embrace a stress-free, fun-filled lifestyle.
A Win for Businesses and Employees
The benefits of this program extend beyond physical health. By encouraging employees to unwind at the beach, companies are fostering a happier, more engaged workforce. “Employees return to work refreshed, with stronger interpersonal bonds from shared beach outings,” Gardner explained. “These experiences create memories that employees associate with their employer, building loyalty and a positive company culture.”
Jorge Monraz, CEO of TMC Engineering, an early adopter of the program, has seen its impact firsthand. “Our team loves the beach rental membership,” Monraz said. “It’s not just about staying active—it’s about giving our employees a way to de-stress and connect with each other in a setting that’s quintessentially San Diego. We’ve noticed improved morale and even better collaboration since we started offering this benefit.”
Richard Bailey, former Mayor of Coronado and an investor in one participating rental shop, sees the program as a game-changer for the region’s business landscape. “San Diego’s beaches are our greatest asset, and this program harnesses their power to revolutionize employee wellness,” Bailey said. “As an investor, I’m thrilled to support a model that promotes health, happiness, and community while showcasing our coastal identity.”
Employees, too, are raving about the program. Valerie, a bank branch manager and frequent user, shared her experience: “This membership has been a lifesaver. After a long day, I grab a paddle board or bike and head to the beach. It’s relaxing, fun, and keeps me active without the monotony of a gym. I feel more connected to my coworkers when we go together, and I’m so grateful my company offers this.”
The Future of Employee Wellness
The beach rental collective’s program is poised to redefine corporate wellness in San Diego and beyond. Unlike gym memberships, which can feel like a chore, this initiative prioritizes enjoyment and mental health alongside physical activity. Employees surf, cycle, or lounge under umbrellas, all while soaking in the restorative effects of the ocean. The result? A workforce that’s not only healthier but also more inspired and loyal.
The cost of this program may surprise you as well. Despite involving several businesses with different ownership structures, the collective has maintained a pricing at, or often below, market rates for typical gym memberships. This allows companies the flexibility to consider this program alongside their gym membership or replacing it if increasing costs are a concern. Although this program is new to San Diego’s business community, program directors are estimating a powerful ROI estimation. Citing a Harvard study on corporate wellness programs, and including conservative estimates on employee retention, the membership designers estimate an ROI of 300%.
As businesses increasingly prioritize holistic wellness, the beach rental collective’s model offers a forward-thinking solution. By tapping into the science-backed benefits of blue spaces and the cultural heartbeat of San Diego’s coastline, this program is setting a new standard for employee benefits. With early adopters like TMC Engineering already reaping the rewards, it’s clear that the future of workplace wellness is sandy, sunny, and full of fun.
For more information about the beach rental collective and its corporate membership program, contact matt@sandiegobikerentals.com.
