For more than 45 years, Hurst Harbor Marina has been a staple on Lake Travis, adapting to changes in ownership, infrastructure and customer expectations. Now under local ownership, the marina is undergoing a transformation—one that blends modern amenities with a long-term vision for the property’s future.

A lifelong passion for the water

Manager Nick Shepherd has spent nearly three decades in the marina industry, starting as a dockhand in high school.

“I started out emptying trash cans and cleaning bathrooms, and I have worked through the years to hone management skills,” Shepherd said. “It got in my blood. ... I stuck with it, and I really enjoy it. This has helped to develop a complete picture for management of the property.”

Marina in Lake Travis people sitting on boat

Investing in a modern marina

In addition to its dry storage, on-site boat maintenance services and competitive pricing, Hurst Harbor Marina recently completed a significant renovation of its boat slips. These updates replaced the older wooden structures with state-of-the-art steel-framed, concrete-decked slips, as well as improved electrical systems and fire suppression measures, ensuring a safer and more reliable experience for boaters. The project also included integrating private patios into each of the slips. The need for these updates were both practical and competitive.

“We were behind [our competitors],” Shepherd said. “This has brought us not only to par, but we’ve surpassed everyone else.”

Hurst Harbor Marina’s secluded cove location offers a well-protected environment for boats, but also poses a challenge when water levels decrease, an issue they are currently facing. In response, the marina has implemented a shuttle service, highlighting their dedication to customer service and satisfaction.

“We run the shuttle from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.,” Shepherd said. “I've got a crew that drives these shuttle boats back and forth to get people out to the docks.”

Kids jump off a dock at a marina on Lake Travis

A call to the community

With its combination of modern amenities, personalized customer service and a vision for the future, Hurst Harbor Marina is positioning itself as a premier destination on Lake Travis.

For those interested in touring the marina, Shepherd encourages them to visit in person.

“Come in at any time. I'm ready to serve and to do what I can to help people. There are some great incentives available right now for new clients. What we've built here is really special,” he said.

Call Hurst Harbor Marina at 512-266-1800, stop by at 16405 Clara Van St. or visit their website today to discover all they have to offer.

The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.