The Shack is Back!
Relax and Picnic at the Nick's Cove Boat Shack
Point Reyes is full of hidden hideaways, including the unassuming boat shack at Nick’s Cove. Quietly perched at the end of a public pier overlooking Tomales Bay, the shack is both a coastal landmark and a symbol of resilience following a tragic 2024 fire.
That’s the year the original shack burned down, along with decades of memorabilia and a beloved 70-year-old Burmeister upright piano. Thanks to a robust community effort, the shack has been rebuilt and reopened to the public.
Reach this coastal gem by walking the 400-foot pier to a spacious wooden deck with picnic tables ideal for watching fishing boats bob in the bay and kayakers paddle by. The shack itself is as charming as ever, now brighter and airier, with a large bay window overlooking Tomales Bay and out toward Hog Island. It’s also newly insulated for those famously blustery Point Reyes days.
Take a seat at the dining table or cozy up beside the gas stove. Musical types can try out the new piano and sing a song or three—though we can’t guarantee your performance will impress the pelicans gliding overhead.
The pier is open to the public at no cost, though we highly recommend grabbing a meal from Nick’s Cove Restaurant at the entrance. It’s a prime spot for waterside patio dining. Keep it classic with the signature fish and chips and a bowl of clam chowder (New England or Rhode Island style), or go for the High Tide Smashburger. Tomales Bay oysters are another local favorite.
Go shuck at the shack!
The Boat Shack and Nick’s Cove Restaurant are located at 23240 Hwy. 1, Marshall; (415) 663-1033. The boat shack is free and open to the public. Dog-friendly!
