About Point San Pablo Harbor
Point San Pablo Harbor is a rustic waterfront venue on the San Pablo Bay in Richmond, California. It’s a functioning marina and event complex tucked at the end of a winding coastal road, described by visitors as a “hidden gem” that blends art, nature, and community spirit (point-san-pablo-harbor.wheree.com ). Arriving at the harbor feels like an adventure – passing old wine castle ruins (Winehaven) and giant, graffiti-covered molasses tanks along the hillside before suddenly emerging by the bay (www.pspharbor.com ) (www.pspharbor.com ). The approaches are steep and occasionally one-lane, authentically “pirate-y,” reflecting its nickname as a “pirate harbor.” The history runs deep: Captain Raymond Clark, founder of the Richmond-San Rafael Ferry, created the harbor breakwater by scuttling nine old ships in 1939 (reviews.birdeye.com ) (blog.postcardtravelers.com ). In its heyday the harbor was a bustling shipping and whaling port (America’s last whale processing station operated here into 1971) (www.pspharbor.com ), and even served as a movie set (“Blood Alley” with John Wayne was filmed here) (www.pspharbor.com ).
After decades of decline, new owners took over in 2016 and began transforming the harbor into a vibrant community destination (www.pspharbor.com ). Today the site is dotted with goats, chickens, and interactive sculptures on the meadow (www.pspharbor.com ), adding to its eclectic character. There’s an emphasis on art – large-scale pieces reminiscent of Burning Man dot the lawn (point-san-pablo-harbor.wheree.com ) – and sustainable touches like an on-site vegetable garden. The renovated facilities include a casual restaurant (now Sailing Goat), a covered outdoor pavilion, a clubhouse (the “Knot Club”) with a lakeside deck, and the quirky Crimson Crow event bus. In short, Point San Pablo Harbor is known for its scenic waterfront views, relaxed bayside vibe, and unique blend of history and creativity that make it special to Richmond’s community (point-san-pablo-harbor.wheree.com ) (www.pspharbor.com ).
Events and Programming
Point San Pablo Harbor is best known today for its live music and event programming, especially the summers-only “Live on the Waterfront” concert series and one-off festivals. From spring through early fall the harbor hosts eclectic concerts almost every weekend. Genres range widely – past shows have included brass band, funk and soul (the LowDown Brass Band), Latin/Afro-Brazilian (SambaDá and Los Nadies), classic rock & roll (Glory Dayz with a former Sha Na Na singer), improvisational variety shows (busload), and more (www.pspharbor.com ) (www.pspharbor.com ). Other events include benefit galas like the YES Nature-to-Neighborhoods “Down By The Bay” dinner (complete with SambaDá dancing) and themed community events like a spring boat-parts sale. The harbor is also home to occasional one-off festivals – for example, October 2025 will bring the first BreakFEST overnight camper music festival with two stages and on-site camping.
These events typically draw Bay Area indie, folk, jazz, world music and tribute bands, often with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. Kids under 12 are usually free at outdoor concerts (www.contracostalive.com ). Shows generally run from late afternoon or early evening into the night (doors often open around 6–7pm for an 8pm show). Many performances come with food and drinks available on site: the Sailing Goat Restaurant often cooks bay-area style seafood and pizza for events, and local craft beers and wine are sold in the beer garden (www.pspharbor.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ). Overall, the programming schedule focuses on weekend evenings, featuring a mix of local Bay Area bands and touring acts. Notable recent lineups include samba groups, New Orleans-style brass bands, jam bands, and classic rock cover bands (sf.funcheap.com ) (www.pspharbor.com ). While ticket prices vary, most concerts are in the $20–$35 range (with advance-sale discounts) (www.pspharbor.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ). Community events like the newsworthy “Marina Yard Sale” (free admission local boat-parts sale) and special benefit shows also punctuate the calendar (richmondstandard.com ). In every case, the harbor’s lakeside meadow stage and club define the casual concert scene, with events often announced via the venue’s newsletter and local media (www.pspharbor.com ) (richmondstandard.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Point San Pablo Harbor shows are generally sold online through the venue’s official channels or associated event sites. There is no traditional box office to visit; instead, ticket links are shared on the harbor’s website and social media. Advance tickets often feature a lower price (typically $20–$25) with day-of-show tickets slightly higher (around $25–$35) (www.pspharbor.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ). Popular events can sell out, so it’s recommended to buy early. Subscribing to the harbor’s newsletter or following their live-event calendar is the best way to know when tickets go on sale and what arts and music events are coming up. Note that many nights in the clubhouse are 21+ show venues, while the outdoor Meadow stage concerts are generally all-ages and even advertise that “kids 12 and under are always free” (www.contracostalive.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ). Because events often provide on-site dining and drinks, outside food or alcohol is explicitly prohibited (www.pspharbor.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ). In short, plan to purchase tickets online well in advance, arrive early on show nights, and enjoy the on-site offerings.
Seating and Layout
This venue does not have fixed seats or numbered rows – almost everything is general admission. For outdoor concerts on the BIG ART Meadow stage, the setting is an open, grassy amphitheater by the water. The harbor provides only a handful of picnic tables (about ten) and a few Adirondack chairs, so attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets to sit on the grass (sf.funcheap.com ). Views from anywhere on the lawn are fairly clear, but the best vantage is close to the stage and in the open meadow area. Because of the bay breeze, it’s wise to have warm layers even on summer nights (the venue itself advises guests to “bring warm layers, blankets, and chairs” (sf.funcheap.com )). The covered 1800 sq. ft. Pavilion provides a roofed stage/platform(1800 sqft) that can host up to roughly 120 seated or 200 standing (www.pspharbor.com ), which helps if the weather turns. Inside the pavilion, seating (when arranged) is usually banquet/table style for private events or concert chairs for shows.
The indoor **Knot Club** (also called the Clubhouse) is a roughly 1800 sq. ft. hall with an 800 sq. ft. waterfront deck (www.pspharbor.com ). It can handle about 50 guests seated or 150 standing. This is typically used for smaller indoor concerts or private receptions. There is also a tiny outdoor stage by the Sailing Goat restaurant (capacity ~80 free attendees). In the Clubhouse, the stage area is right at floor level (no balcony), so closer tickets just stand near the front. Overall, every viewing spot is intimate – there are no real “bad seats” in the small club or pavilion, but the outdoors is unreserved. If you want a guaranteed table or shelter, arrive early and grab one of the picnic tables under the Pavilion roof. Otherwise the open lawn is the typical seating area. Acoustics are generally good given the open-air setting, though sound carries over the water better than into hills; proximity to the stage is the key to hearing well.
Getting There and Parking
The harbor’s address is 1900 Stenmark Drive, Richmond (ZIP 94801) (www.pspharbor.com ). By car from the East Bay, take I-580 West toward San Rafael, exit onto Stenmark Drive (right before the bridge toll), then follow Stenmark Drive 2.2 miles hugging the coast. On busy days the main parking lot on the hill (marked by signs) fills up, and overflow parking opens further around the point (follow signs past Terminal 4) (www.pspharbor.com ). Parking is plentiful and free at the harbor, with both a primary lot near the restaurant and secondary lots that open for large events (there is no paid parking fee). The road in is narrow and winding, so allow extra drive time. From Marin, you must first go over the Richmond–San Rafael Bridge eastbound and loop back around (no direct spur exists) (www.pspharbor.com ).
Public transit to this remote spot is limited. There is no nearby BART or free shuttle. The closest major transit hub is Richmond BART/Amtrak, about 10 miles away; local AC Transit buses do not run directly to the harbor. Visitors generally arrive by car or ride-share. If using a ride-hail service, ask to be let out at the harbor entrance (1900 Stenmark) and walk in – it’s a short walk along the waterfront to the restaurant and stage from the lot.
For those coming by boat, be extremely cautious: the approach to Point San Pablo Harbor is deceptively shallow. A sunken shoal and wreck litter the channel, and the basin can have as little as 1 foot of water at low tide (www.pspharbor.com ). Only attempt docking at high tide and if you know the charted entrance channel. Experienced boaters typically tie up at one of the slips near the restaurant, and mariners are advised to call the Harbor master in advance for advice (510-233-3224) (www.pspharbor.com ). There is also a public kayak launch and floating restrooms near the dock for small craft (blog.postcardtravelers.com ).
Inside the Venue
On arrival, you’ll find a laid-back, eclectic atmosphere both indoors and out. The marina area is open to the bay breeze day and night. Expect to see goats grazing on the hillside (they live on-site to manage vegetation) and chickens wandering the meadow (www.pspharbor.com ). The fully renovated Sailing Goat Restaurant sits right on the lawn, serving wood-fired pizzas, seafood (like fish & chips and shrimp), salads, vegan/gluten-free options, plus local beer and wines (sailing-goat-restaurant.res-menu.com ). The restaurant’s outdoor patio is casual and covered by picnic tables (first-come basis), with scenic sunset views over the water (sailing-goat-restaurant.res-menu.com ) (www.pspharbor.com ). (Dogs are even welcome at the restaurant on a leash (sailing-goat-restaurant.res-menu.com ) (www.sailinggoatrestaurant.com ).) Indoor restrooms are located in the restaurant building - despite some rumors, the venue does have regular indoor facilities rather than just porta-potties (sailing-goat-restaurant.res-menu.com ). A small gift counter by the restaurant may offer event merch or snacks during shows.
Security is relaxed but professional for ticketed events. Expect a quick check of tickets/IDs at the door. Outside food and drink (and pets inside performance areas) are not permitted during shows (www.pspharbor.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ). Inside seating is limited so the venue often uses portable chairs and tables as needed. Coat-check is not generally offered, but umbrella stands and lockers are not provided. Mobile coverage is usually fine out on the lawns, and some events may provide basic Wi‐Fi, though connectivity can be spotty out on the bay and no special guest Wi-Fi is advertised (bring phone chargers if needed).
Food and drink service at shows is a highlight: for concerts the Sailing Goat or food trucks typically remain open until showtime (www.pspharbor.com ), and a beer/wine bar operates both inside (Clubhouse) and outside (Meadow). If you get hungry during a performance, grab a meal or snack at the restaurant or bar tent. The kitchen usually stops serving about an hour after a show starts. (For example, at the LowDown Brass show the Sailing Goat was open until 8:00pm (www.pspharbor.com ).) Beer from East Brother Brewing Co, plus non-alcoholic sodas, are frequently on tap. Finally, note that the vibe is very casual – concertgoers often hang near the picnic tables, stroll among art installations before the music starts, or gaze out at the sunset (which is spectacular). The harbor even has a few secluded fire pits on the far lawn for evening gatherings, depending on the event.
Nearby Amenities
Because Point San Pablo Harbor is fairly isolated, there are few options within a short walk besides what’s on site. The Sailing Goat Restaurant is the only dining spot right at the harbor (www.pspharbor.com ), serving brunch and dinner on weekends. Beyond that, visitors typically drive to nearby Point Richmond (about 4 miles west) or to the larger Marina Bay/Downtown Richmond areas. In Point Richmond you’ll find a handful of bars, cafes and pubs (Americano, Colette’s, Tomatina, etc.) suitable for pre- or post-show drinks. The Richmond main downtown (6-7 miles away) has hotel-style restaurants, and countless fast-food options along San Pablo Avenue if needed. There are no hotels immediately adjacent to the harbor – lodging is mainly available at town inns or the historic East Brother Island Lighthouse B&B, which sits on a small island nearby. (The harbor’s owners even run boat trips to that ornate 1873 light station.)
For convenience, don’t skip the on-site farm pond and goat barn between shows. Children visiting love to feed the chickens and see the goats up close. The harbor grounds are also a popular hiking/picnic spot; you can stroll onto the old breakwater “trails” made of the sunken ships (warning: the rocks are uneven). Parking just steps from the lawn makes it easy for families to bring blankets, coolers or picnic baskets – though remember outside alcohol still isn’t allowed.
If your event run late, plan ahead because late-night transport options are limited. There is no late-night bus or shuttle; if you drove in, it’s safest to drive back immediately after. Ride-shares can be ordered, but the driver must navigate the unlit, winding road. The harbor is open until dusk, and events rarely run past 11pm, so most people depart by nightfall. In short, use the on-site restaurant or pack snacks, and stay into the evening only if you have a ride arranged or camp overnight (for multi-day festivals that allow camping, indoor restrooms and showers are available upstairs in the Clubhouse (www.pspharbor.com )).
What Makes This Venue Special
Point San Pablo Harbor’s charm lies in its one-of-a-kind setting and story. It feels “secret” because it’s far from city lights, tucked behind tanker terminals and a natural headland. The combination of a working marina, a fish-pizza shack, roaming livestock, dramatic art sculptures and panoramic bay vistas makes it unlike any typical concert hall. At sunset you can see the Richmond Bridge and Mt. Tam in the distance while listening to live music, a truly West Coast backdrop. The old breakwater built from 1890s steam schooners gives the shoreline an ancient aura – sometimes glassy stations made of sunken ships peek out of the water (even the movie Blood Alley shot scenes with a sinking ship here) (www.pspharbor.com ) (blog.postcardtravelers.com ).
The venue has a deliberately “handmade” vibe: inside, rooms are festooned with local art, and outdoors the grass-meets-concrete meadow hosts rotating installation pieces curated by local nonprofits. There are goats quietly nibbling brush and chickens clucking in the background; these farm elements started only after 2018 as part of a community eco-project (www.pspharbor.com ). Locals often point out little touches like the bright Mongolian yurt on the hill, or the makeshift barge patio by the docks. Every corner has a story – the grand old Winehaven castle ruins nearby (California’s first large winery) and the spray-painted fuel tanks remind you this was a working industrial bay, yet the harbor’s courtyard now feels playful and rustic.
Artists and performers love it for the scenery and intimacy: many touring bands rave about setting up on a floating dock stage with egrets fishing at low tide, then watching the sun slip behind the hills. Audiences remember that Midjourney Arts event or Groove Mob party for its surprise goat petting tractor! Even the location’s microclimate is a draw – it’s often ten degrees warmer than foggy San Francisco just down the highway. For residents of Richmond, the cultural value has been huge: the once-forgotten marina is now a symbol of creative renewal, helping bootstrap the waterfront arts scene in this former refinery town. In short, Point San Pablo Harbor matters because it links Richmond’s history, local art and adventurous outdoor lifestyle into one place that you really can’t find anywhere else. (blog.postcardtravelers.com ) (point-san-pablo-harbor.wheree.com )
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The harbor grounds are mostly flat grass and gravel, so wheelchair users can get around the main lawn and pier area. The restaurant and Clubhouse have ramps at the entrances, and there are accessible restrooms inside the restaurant. However, some paths (especially on the old breakwater) are uneven. If accessibility is a concern, it’s best to park in the main lot and stick to the near-shore areas around the restaurant and pavilion. Staff are generally very helpful if someone needs assistance.
Weather: Even on warm days, evening breezes off the bay can drop the temperature significantly. Dressing in layers is recommended for any outdoor event. The pavilion and Clanhouse provide cover in case of light rain (shows usually proceed rain or shine), but in a heavy storm concerts may be postponed. Check the forecast and the harbor’s social feed if bad weather is expected.
What to bring/do: For outdoor concerts bring a lawn chair or blanket (seating is grass & picnic tables only). Blankets or jackets for warmth, and closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven ground. Sunglasses or sunscreen for afternoon events. For family outings, snacks are fine (inside food/drink is not sold until event open, but you may bring water and snacks for daytime use). Removable layers, pet waste bags (if bringing a dog to the picnic area – dogs are welcome outside but keep them leashed), and a portable umbrella or ground cloth can be handy.
Prohibited items: No outside alcohol, no amplified sound equipment, no drones over events, and for safety kindly no fireworks. The venue has a friendly, casual vibe, so there is no formal dress code – casual attire is perfect.
Kids & Pets: Many events are kid-friendly (with free admission for young kids) and even have lawn games. Pets are allowed on the grounds (goats and chickens thrive there!), especially on the trails and picnic areas, as long as they’re leashed and cleaned up after. Smaller dogs often roam with their owners at quieter times, but crowded concerts might be overwhelming for pets.
Restrooms, Food and Drink: Yes – the Sailing Goat Restaurant has full indoor restrooms (alongside portable facilities during big events) (sailing-goat-restaurant.res-menu.com ). The restaurant also serves food on weekends and special event nights, plus there are usually a few food trucks or pop-up stands by major concerts. There is no coat check or phone charging station, so budget your battery. Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas, not in the crowd or near the stage.
Arrival Times: For concerts, doors often open an hour before showtime (6–7pm). Arriving early helps you get a parking spot close to the lawn or a good picnic table. It also gives time to grab dinner at the restaurant (which may close serving about an hour after show start). For private events or weddings the harbor staff will coordinate exact arrival info, but generally plan to arrive on time – events on the grass usually have plenty of space and no dress formalities.
Tickets & Payments: Credit/debit cards and Apple/Google Pay are widely accepted at the restaurant and bar. Some food trucks may be cash only, so carrying a small amount of cash is useful. If attending a free community event (like a yard sale), general parking and admission are free. Paid events will have posted prices and cover charges; check seating age policies (some Clubhouse shows are 21+).
Common Mistakes: Visitors sometimes underestimate the remoteness: don’t rely on cell signal to navigate, and fill up your gas tank before coming. Also, if you expect to camp or hang out late, know that the nearest convenience store is miles away. Leave valuables locked in your car if you plan to roam or swim, as the lots are open but away from the concert areas. And do not attempt to boat into the harbor without local knowledge – the NOAA charts warn of the shallow approach (www.pspharbor.com ).
FAQ Highlights: The harbor’s concert seasons, restaurant hours and special events are best checked on the official website or Facebook page. Family visitors love the goats and art park, and parking is usually easy (even at busy events, there’s overflow space). For emergency or last-minute info the harbor’s phone is (510) 233-3224. The staff is used to touring musicians and new visitors alike, and the community take pride in ensuring every event goes smoothly; many reviewers note the friendly, helpful nature of the Harbor team (point-san-pablo-harbor.wheree.com ).
Are children and families welcome at Point San Pablo Harbor events?
Yes. Many outdoor concerts and daytime events are family‐friendly, with free or discounted entry for kids (often under 12 or 13) (www.contracostalive.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ). There are lawn games and picnic tables for families. Be aware that some indoor “clubhouse” shows are 21+ only (usually noted in the event description).
What is the capacity of the venue’s event spaces?
Capacities vary by space: the outdoor Pavilion area (including the meadow) can accommodate roughly 120 seated or 200 standing people (www.pspharbor.com ). The indoor Clubhouse (Knot Club) holds about 50 seated or 150 standing (www.pspharbor.com ). The small restaurant stage area is about 80 cap. In practice, outdoor concerts often see a few hundred attendees on the lawn, while Clubhouse shows are kept to around 100–125 people.
How do I buy tickets for concerts at Point San Pablo Harbor?
Tickets are usually sold online in advance through the harbor’s event listings. Look for the official “Live on the Waterfront” concert announcements or the Sailing Goat Restaurant’s site. Buying early online is highly recommended. If a show isn’t sold out, you can often buy at the door for a slightly higher price (most advance tickets are $20–$25, with door prices around $25–$30 (www.pspharbor.com ) (sf.funcheap.com )). The venue does not have a traditional box office; check the harbor’s website or social media for tickets.
Is parking available, and is it free?
Yes. Point San Pablo Harbor has ample parking on-site, including a main lot accessible via the steep hill entrance and an overflow lot for large events (www.pspharbor.com ) (point-san-pablo-harbor.wheree.com ). Parking is free. Just note that on busy concert nights, you may have to park in the secondary lot farther around the point, which entails a short walk along the shore.
Can I take public transportation to the harbor?
Public transit is very limited. There is no local bus stop at the harbor. The closest transit hubs (e.g. Richmond BART/Amtrak station) are over 10 miles away. Most visitors drive. If you must use transit, take BART to Richmond or El Cerrito and then a cab/rideshare for the final leg. Otherwise a car or ride-share is the most practical way to get here.
What food and drink options are on site?
The on-site Sailing Goat Restaurant serves coastal comfort food – wood-fired pizzas, seafood chowder, fish-and-chips, salads and more (sailing-goat-restaurant.res-menu.com ). It operates weekends (Fri–Sun, plus on special event nights) (www.pspharbor.com ). During concerts and festivals you’ll find the restaurant open early, and often one or two food trucks. There is also a full bar selling local beers, wine and non-alcoholic drinks at events. (Outside food/drink is not allowed in event areas (www.pspharbor.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ).)
Does Point San Pablo Harbor have wheelchair access?
Yes. The main areas (restaurant, theater room, and docks) are accessible. The restaurant and Knot Club have ramps, and restroom facilities inside are ADA-compliant. Outdoor areas are mostly flat gravel and grass, which can accommodate wheelchairs with some care. However, the old breakwater rocks and remote corners can be uneven, so plan to stick to level paths. Email the harbor in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.
Are pets (dogs) allowed at the harbor?
Dogs on leash are welcome on the harbor grounds (for example, the Sailing Goat patio explicitly allows dogs) (sailing-goat-restaurant.res-menu.com ) (www.sailinggoatrestaurant.com ). They can stroll the outdoor areas but not inside the Clubhouse or event tents. Owners must clean up after their pets. Visitors often enjoy walking to see the resident goats and chickens.
What is the restroom situation?
At the harbor, there are regular indoor restrooms located in the Sailing Goat restaurant (sailing-goat-restaurant.res-menu.com ). During large events additional portable restrooms may be available. So you will have clean facilities; it is not just port-a-potties. Note that if you need a restroom during a concert, you will need to leave the concert area to use the restaurant’s facilities or designated restrooms.
What is the policy on outside alcohol or cannabis?
Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited in event areas (www.pspharbor.com ) (sf.funcheap.com ). Selling alcohol at events is licensed to the harbor’s vendors and bar, so no personal booze or cannabis is allowed at concerts or in tents. Recreational cannabis use is not permitted on the premises. You may bring bottled water and soft drinks.
Is swimming allowed in the harbor?
No. Point San Pablo Harbor is a working marina, not a public swim beach. There are boats and shallow channels full of piers and oyster beds. Recreational swimming is discouraged for safety (the harbor is shallow and has underwater hazards). Visitors should stay on land or in designated boating areas. The nearest safe swim spots are several miles away (e.g. Keller Beach in Berkeley or Tilden Park Lake).
Why does it say Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor on some signs?
“Point San Pablo Yacht Harbor” is simply an older name for the same place (used especially when the site was mainly a boat marina). The current branding is “Point San Pablo Harbor,” but you may still see the old “Yacht Harbor” name on vintage signs or maps. It’s the same location, and both names refer to this Richmond peninsula marina and event space.
How do I get to East Brother Island from the harbor?
The harbor offers guided boat trips to the East Brother Light Station (a historic B&B) during summer. If you’re a hotel guest of East Brother or just visiting, you must book a ferry via the harbor. Otherwise, general visitors cannot drop off by boat at East Brother without arrangements. The harbor road itself (Stenmark Drive) was named for the light station’s first keeper, and you can see East Brother Island from the harbor docks – it’s a short sunset boat ride across the bay.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress casually and in layers. Closed-toe shoes are wise on the uneven grounds. Even in summer evenings it can cool off, so a jacket or sweatshirt is smart. For outdoor shows, bring a camp chair or blanket, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for daytime. Rain is rare but occasionally causes cancellations, so you might carry a light waterproof layer if you’re flexible. Finally, bring a good time and an open mind – this isn’t a formal theater, and the dress code is beachy-camp style.
