If you have no time for a summer vacay, here are some beaches to visit for a staycay. Enjoy Summer Cocktails of the Farmer’s Market for a mid-week great cause, and then head to the summer’s biggest hit, a ginormous indoor Putt Putt course. The intriguing life and art of Frida Kahlo is once more observed in the Mission with a variety of events that celebrate this original feminist artist.  So much to do tomatoes…go for it!

Beach Time

The sun is out and oh right, we live on the coast. Sunscreen – check, chilled beverages – check, umbrellas and towels – check. Where to hit the beach? Not crowded Stinson, Baker or Ocean again.  How about these beaches, all within an hour of SF…

Pacifica Beach

Surfers delight in this crescent-shaped beach, especially beginners who aren’t ready for Mavericks. It’s a great spot for picnicking and sunbathing – if Karl the fog is out of town.  Make sure to check the surf cam before going to avoid bringing your parka instead of your bikini! 17 miles from SF. Find out more.

Montara State Beach

This mile –long beach is home to some intense waves and watching the experienced surfers is awe inspiring. Also taking the breath away are the sandstone cliffs behind the beach – photo opps aplenty. Fido can join the fun as well – on a leash! Whales have also been sighted (sadly not by me!) Nestled above is the fabulous restaurant I wrote about a few months back, La Costanera and right up the road is the Point Montara Lighthouse hostel (and they do have private rooms!) Find out more.

Kirby Cove 

Just a quick 20 minute drive north brings you to Kirby Cove where you will be standing right below the Marin Headlands. Golden Gate Bridge is in front of you and the SF skyline featured just beyond. It does require a mile hike down, but the privacy and skyscape is worth it. Find our more.

Picnic On The Plaza

We need to enjoy the long days and evening sunshine during the summer, and on July 27^th, you can attend a city-style picnic in front of the Ferry Building. Benefiting CUESA, the organization that manages the Farmer’s Market, they create links between us, the urban dwellers, and our local farmers. They are all about creating a healthy world nourished by delicious, socially just food systems. I just love the colors and vibrancy of the bounty displayed at the market.  This is a lively way to taste craft cocktails from local bars, and taste delicious bites featuring fresh summer produce. Foodie themed lawn games, signature cocktails and a view of the waterfront. I say yes, please! Get tickets.

Putt Putt at Pier 70

You may have gathered that this tomato loves activities so when I stumbled upon this custom Putt Putt course, I grabbed my golf shoes and shouted hooray. Ok, well not the golf shoes part, but I am excited.  This is not your windmill spinning, dragon eating miniature golf course. The 18 courses are uniquely created by local artists and this one of a kind experience highlights the history of San Francisco. Such a fun date/friend night, but parking is a tad challenging.  If your tummy starts to growl, there are bites by Madam Zola’s Café and a Full Bar onsite. Check out the details.

Frida Kahlo

Not only did this Mexican artist have love affairs with men and women and a tumultuous marriage to Diego Rivera, she had a love affair with our beautiful San Francisco. Each year Kahlo is celebrated in the Mission District (and in Oakland this year) with events recognizing her art and life. On Sunday Frida’s Closet at 3473 25^th St, brings the SELFrida challenge back to it’s storefront. Last year, they had 36 Fridas taking selfies all at once. This year, they plan to break that record and are taking selfies in front of the new Friday Kahlo mural. Other events such as Poetry Open mic take place later this summer. The recognition culminates on August 12^th in Oakland with a curated exhibit at Jingletown Art Studios – “Over Forty Fridas” . If you are not familiar with her story, you will be fascinated by this tomato who died way too young. Get more details.