SAN DIEGO -- The latest boats and accessories will take center stage -- along with the vibrant marine community of Shelter Island and Point Loma -- during the inaugural Shelter Island Boat Festival, Aug. 4-5 at Nielsen Beaumont Yachtworks, 2420 Shelter Island Drive.            

The festival is designed to celebrate the boating culture, marine businesses and maritime background of this area. Shelter Island is not only the boating heart of one of the nation’s top pleasurecraft destinations, it is also home to internationally known yacht builders, and some of the marine industry’s top craftsmen and riggers.            

Festival attendees will get an opportunity to become immersed in all things boating, in one convenient location -- with an in-the-water showcase of new and brokerage sailboats and powerboats, along with the latest services and accessories spotlighted in exhibits on shore. Experts will be available to answer festival-goers’ questions about boat buying, rigging and fitting out.            

Along with the festival’s display of yachts, attendees can enjoy the sounds of local musicians, food from local restaurants, sailboat rides and a wide array of activities.            

Festival hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free.            

The festival is presented by Shelter Island Boat Festival Inc. For more information, visit shelterislandboatfest.com or call Amie Huebner at (410) 271-6058.