Friday Five
Spring is here and that means warm (okay, comfortable) temps, longer days, and more sunshine. Even better, San Francisco could soon be moving into the state’s orange tier and everyone is eligible for vaccines starting April 15. That means more openings and — maybe, just maybe — the start of the return of the vibrant city we all know and love.
While it may be a while until we can cram into those fully booked restaurants or brush shoulders with strangers at our favorite dives, we can still partake in some truly unique Bay Area activities. And that’s all thanks to some very creative locals who’ve put together some of their favorite experiences and are hosting them through Airbnb. We’re big fans of signing up for Airbnb Experiences while traveling, so why not do it at home?
Whether you’re looking for a Covid-safe adventure or a virtual night in, here are our top five choices for Airbnb experiences in the Bay Area that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.
1. Boozy Drag Bingo
We’ve really been missing our trivia nights and drag shows during quarantine, so here’s a virtual option that combines both. Tye, San Francisco’s self-proclaimed drag sweetheart, is hosting boozy drag bingo games. You don’t even have to worry about the bingo cards — it’s all online and she sends you the link. All you have to do is grab some friends, make some cocktails and pick a time. You can even place bets if you’re feeling spicy.
Boozy Drag Queen Bingo | Starting at $30 | Virtual
2. Silent Disco Yoga
This probably isn’t the first time you’ve heard of the silent disco yoga classes at Baker Beach. But did you know Outdoor Yoga SF is back? And with new locations across the Bay Area? Founder Julianne Aiello has gathered some of her favorite teachers to lead classes beyond the beach in other outdoor locales like Golden Gate Park and Oakland’s Lake Merritt. We even noticed one of San Francisco’s most sought-out yoga teachers, Janet Stone, is now on the list. If yoga’s not your thing, they are offering pilates now as well. On the more chilled out end of the spectrum, if you’re like us and it’s been a minute since you’ve worked out (thanks, pandemic), you can opt for the traditional Zen classes while grooving under the Golden Gate Bridge. Insider’s tip: Be sure to check the calendar! Some classes even include a live DJ.
Silent Disco Beach Yoga | Starting at $35 | In-person classes, multiple locations
3. Crabbing near the Golden Gate Bridge
Honestly, whether we’re walking across it, sailing underneath it, or staring at it from a scenic viewpoint, the Golden Gate Bridge will never get old to us. If you’re looking for a new way to experience the bridge, how about crabbing beneath it? That’s where “Uncle Dave” comes in. He learned how to crab from his Irish grandfather. Decades later, he’s teaching all of us around the Bay Area. Uncle Dave will also show you how to crack ’em and cook ’em. You have to get up early for this one, but we think the literal sea-to-table lunch is totally worth it.
Crab, Crack, and Cook | Starting at $62 | In-person
4. Winery Hop in a VW Van
Garrett and his crew at West Wine Tours converted some old-school buses into Instagram-worthy wheels to drive wine tasters around to different wineries in Sonoma and Napa. California wineries just reopened outdoors, so it’s the perfect time to sign up. Gather your roommates or significant other, grab your mask, and book a day to head up North. Don’t forget your camera, because you’re definitely going to want to post this on the ‘gram.
Bonus points: The majority of the drivers grew up in Wine Country. So they might be able to introduce you to some hidden gems!
West Wine Tours | Starting at $134 | In-person, Napa or Sonoma
5. Grab your dog and join a Nacho Party
Okay, this one is totally bizarre in the most joyous way. But seriously, where in the world could you find an event like this? Where in the world would people actually pay to do this? Santa Cruz, that’s where. Pre-Covid, Eden had hosted people from 27 different countries at her Airbnb in the Santa Cruz redwoods. Post-Covid, she’s become a virtual host. We love this option because it’s not only affordable and fun, but it involves nachos and doggos. Eden, along with her canine Buddy, will be your chefs. Obviously, your pup is encouraged to join. While the nachos are cooking, Eden will pass over the mic to all the canine guests. This is their time to show off any special tricks. If you don’t have a furry companion, fear not. Here’s your chance to meet some, while snacking. Oh, and it all ends with one big dance party.
Take the Dog to Family Nacho Party | Starting at $11 | Virtual
