As we reflect back on the last 20 months, it is easy to focus on the challenges we have faced individually and collectively. It doesn’t take much to remember the hardships that COVID-19 has brought to each of us, but as we approach Thanksgiving, let’s think about the ways that our lives have been impacted positively in these times.

Families haven’t spent this much time together in decades! Many families made the most of it by working on projects together, doing home improvement, learning new skills, and building roller coasters in their backyards. Technologies grew and evolved rapidly to allow us to communicate more effectively with friends, family and co-workers. Business technology has made it easier for consumers and businesses to interact. People moved away from crowded cities to give their families space. Many people learned that they can do their jobs effectively from anywhere in the world and chose to find comfortable and secluded places to enjoy lockdown. 

The Nick’s Cove crew was honored to be the home away from home for people looking for a clean and safe place to quarantine. We are so thankful that so many people truly consider Nick’s to be their second home.

As we enter the season of Thanksgiving, we hope that you will consider joining us for a meal. We are open until 5pm on Thanksgiving to give our crew time to spend with their families. Our delicious Thanksgiving special includes a traditional turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, & cranberry sauce. Spiced pumpkin mousse will top off this satisfying meal. All of our normal counter service options will be available as well.

One of the best ways to experience Tomales Bay is from the seat of a kayak. Close proximity to the water and minimal disruption to the natural environment allow for a unique perspective into this stunning ecosystem. Blue Waters Kayaking allows paddlers to get up close and personal with the phenomenon of bioluminescence. Bioluminescence occurs when tiny microorganisms called dinoflagellates are disturbed by fish or other underwater predators. Schools of fish and their seal predators bump into these tiny creatures in the water causing them to emit a tiny flash of light leaving behind a cloud of glowing phosphorescence.

Viewing these natural light shows requires both the sun and moon to be set. Blue Waters Kayaking takes out evening tours on nights when it is likely for bioluminescent events to happen. Kayaking excursions leave from Miller Boat Launch next to Nick’s Cove. Come in and join us for a fresh and delicious seafood dinner before heading out to enjoy the natural beauty of the Tomales Bay.

Sometimes only locals know the best kept secrets: a hidden swimming or fishing spot, the best boutique wineries, or the best restaurant that’s off the beaten path. While Nick’s Cove may not be the best kept secret, it certainly has one little gem available that much of the public may not know about. I’m talking about a part of many people’s childhood summer adventures and a staple of camping trips: S’mores! With fluffy handmade marshmallows, buttery handmade graham crackers, and local Tcho chocolate sometimes the best memories are newly made. You can take them to-go, or enjoy them in one of our 12 cottages, each with their own wood-burning stove. Now the only question left is whether you keep the secret or tell your friends!

Dustin Moore

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PS: Until Marin County lifts mask restrictions, we are not allowing fires in the restaurant fireplace or the boat shack fireplace to encourage masking whenever not at a socially distanced table.

PSS: Nick’s Cove donates $5 from each sale of handcrafted S’mores to the Mentor Me program based out of Petaluma.