NAB CORONADO
NAVY
Coronado, CA
United States
NAB CORONADO
NAVY
Coronado, CA
United States
NAB Coronado
Base Essentials
Home of Naval Special Warfare Command and the SEAL training center (BUD/S) — on Coronado Island across the bay from San Diego. A premier Navy expeditionary posting with Pacific beaches, year-round perfect weather, and tight West Coast Navy community.
Base Details
Type
Naval Station
Branch
NAVY
Command
CNIC
Status
Active
Est.
1944
Acres
2,804
Active Duty
—
Civilian
—
Population
3,300,000
Economic Impact
—
NAB Coronado History
Naval Base Coronado encompasses several facilities on the Coronado peninsula and nearby areas in San Diego Bay. It is home to Naval Special Warfare Command (the SEALs), Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, and helicopter and special warfare training facilities. Coronado is the center of gravity for Navy special operations on the West Coast and supports some of the military's most elite units.
Units Stationed
Unit
Nickname
Type
Naval Special Warfare Command
—
—
Naval Amphibious Base Coronado
—
—
Historic Timeline
1917
Naval Amphibious Training Station Established
1943
Naval Combat Demolition Units Trained Here
1987
Naval Special Warfare Command Established
—
View Key Moments
(3)
1917
Naval Amphibious Training Station Established
The Navy established an air station on the Coronado peninsula in 1917, which evolved over decades into the Naval Amphibious Base Coronado — the primary West Coast hub for amphibious warfare training and special operations.
1943
Naval Combat Demolition Units Trained Here
Naval Combat Demolition Units — the predecessors of today's Navy SEALs — began training at Coronado in 1943 to clear beach obstacles for amphibious landings in WWII. The brutal training pipeline evolved into Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training, which has been conducted at Coronado ever since.
1987
Naval Special Warfare Command Established
Naval Special Warfare Command was established at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado in 1987, consolidating all Navy SEAL and Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewman units under a single command. Coronado remains the institutional home of Naval Special Warfare.
Phone Directory
Key phone numbers for NAB Coronado.
NAB Coronado Base Gates
Entry points, hours, and access requirements for NAB Coronado.
Gate hours can change suddenly during special exercises, holidays, and operational periods. We always recommend confirming details before you travel.
Latest News
Recent articles and updates from NAB Coronado.
Information
Naval Base Coronado: In-Depth Welcome Center
Read
Military Spouse & Family
Coronado Schools Are Some of the Best In California
Read
Recreation
Things To Do In Coronado Island Near Naval Base Coronado
Read
Entertainment
Seven Mouthwatering Coronado Restaurants You Need to Try
Read
Military News
Malmstrom AFB PCB Levels Raise Cancer Risk for Missileers
Read
PCS & Newcomers
Everything you need to know for your move to NAB Coronado.
Welcome Center
Coming soon
In-Processing
Upon arrival with PCS orders, report first to your gaining command. Contact your sponsor before arrival to confirm the quarterdeck location and reporting time. The main gate at Tarawa Road is staffed 24 hours. Ensure you have your military ID and orders ready; base access may require pre-enrollment in the DBIDS system for those without a CAC.
The Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) is located at Building 515, East F Street. PSD handles pay records, travel claims, CAC/ID processing, DEERS enrollment, and passports. Hours: Mon–Fri 0730–1600, with Wednesday opening at 0830. Phone: (619) 545-0509. For after-hours lodging, contact Navy Gateway Inns and Suites at (619) 545-9551.
The Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) provides relocation assistance and family services at (619) 522-7222. On-base family housing is managed by Liberty Military Housing; their Silver Strand office can be reached at (619) 435-2933. Naval Base Coronado main line: (619) 437-3860.
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Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Open PCS Checklist (14 Items)
Trusted Base Intel. Since 1966.
Join 200,000+ personnel for base news, PCS tips, exclusive discounts, and critical benefits info.
Always free. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sponsor Program Information
Temporary Lodging Details
Housing & BAH
On-post housing, cost of living, and BAH info for NAB Coronado.
Local Market
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Cost of Living Around NAB Coronado
160
60% Above National Average
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Schools & Education
K-12 schools, colleges, and education resources near NAB Coronado.
School Liaison Officer
School Liaison Officer
Education Resources
Notes, tuition & more
Education Benefits
Check Your GI Bill Eligibility
Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and more.
Where To Live
If you are looking for things to do in Coronado Island, you are in the right place! This article will take you through various activities suited for all ages. The island is also home to the Coronado Naval Base.
Coronado Island is located in the San Diego Bay, and is technically a peninsula. Some of the things to do in Coronado Island are exploring beaches, resorts and soaking up that small-town feel. There are plenty of things to do from historical activities to adventurous ones. Read on to find out more!
Suggested read: Seven Mouthwatering Coronado Restaurants You Need To Try
Recreation and Outdoor Activities
1. Coronado Beach
Coronado Beach, Coronado, CA 92118, United States
Coronado Beach is known as one of the finest beaches in the nation. Not only does it have a pristine coastline but there are plenty of activities to enjoy. You can swim, sunbathe, surf, and more.
2. Yokohama Friendship Bell via Shelter Island - Shoreline Park Hike
1500 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, United States
This hike is one of the best things to do in Coronado as it is free and a relatively easy hike. Barely any elevation, and you can finish it in an hour. On top of this, you can see a cultural site at the end! The friendship bell that marked the end of WWII.
3. Biking Alongside the Bayshore Bikeway
Broadway Pier - Coronado Ferry, 1020 Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
This 24 mile loop is perfect for a sunny day or for just enjoy the scenery around you! You can rent bikes on the boardwalk or bring your own to the loop. It is mostly flat, so it is suitable for beginners. Another one of the many things to do in Coronado Island!
Free Things To Do In Coronado Island
1. Free Tours at Coronado Naval Base
300 Alameda Blvd., Coronado, CA.
The tours are available only by request of Veterans or Veteran family members who served at the NBC base. The rest who do not qualify can attend the air shows in October or March!
2. Stroll Down Orange Avenue
Coronado, CA 92118, USA
Orange Avenue is a perfect place to find a sweet treat if you are looking for things to do in Coronado Island. You can window shop throughout the street and still admire the beauty without spending a penny!
3. Art in the Park - Spreckels Park
601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, USA
Every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, this park features over 50 San Diego artists across various genres. The artists put their work on display for the public. A perfect Sunday activity!
4. Farmer’s Market
Coronado Ferry Landing, Coronado, CA, United States
Every Tuesday you can find the Farmer’s Market of Coronado Island, and wander around the stalls to see what you can acquire for dinner. Between 2:30 - 6:00 PM you can find all the fruits and vegetables your heart desires!
Cultural Picks
1. Tour the Historic Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, United States
This hotel is one of the most historical artifacts there is on the island! It was designated a national monument in 1977 and is an iconic spot on Coronado Island. It is a must see.
2. Visit a Sunken Ship
Coronado Beach, Coronado, CA 92118, United States
The SS “Monte Carlo” Coronado ship was known for gambling back in the day and was caught in a shipwreck. The boat drifted to shore due to an anchor misplacement in 1937. The remnants can be seen during low tide on Coronado Beach.
3. Wizard of Oz’s Coronado History
1101 Star Park Circle, Coronado, CA
This is one of the best things to do in Coronado. If you are a Wizard of Oz fan you might be surprised to know that the author wrote the iconic story in the island. L. Frank Baum even rented a yellow cottage that you can go visit!
4. Lamb’s Players Theater
1142 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, United States
If you love seeing shows, Lamb’s Players Theater is amazing for spectacular performances! The performances also highlight the history and traditions of Coronado Island.
Have Fun Exploring the Island
As you probably already realized, there are loads of things to do in Coronado Island. You can enjoy so many of these activities by yourself, with friends, or with family. This is only a snippet of the things to do. You’ll never get bored in Coronado Island!
Read next: National Defense Authorization Act Gives Servicemembers a Historic Raise
Taxes & Finance
State tax policy and financial info for service members at NAB Coronado.
State Income Tax
Has state income tax
Military Pay
Fully taxed
Retirement Pay
Fully taxed
Vehicle Tax Exempt
No
Spouse Income Tax
California taxes military pay if stationed in CA. Spouses may claim domicile elsewhere under MSRRA.
Vehicle Registration
Non-resident military can keep home-state plates but may owe use tax on vehicle purchase.
Property Tax
Disabled veterans may qualify for property tax exemption. Prop 13 limits assessment increases.
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Pet Policies at NAB Coronado
Pet policies, vet services, and resources at NAB Coronado.
Emergency Vet
Coming soon
On-Base Vet Clinic
Coming soon
Restricted Breeds
—
Prohibited Animals
—
Dog Parks
—
Boarding & Kennels
—
Pet Guidance
Coming soon
Coming soon
Facilities & Services
On-base services and facilities at NAB Coronado.
Commissary
1
Naval Base Coronado Commissary (North Island)
Exchange
NEX
Mon–Fri 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sat 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM; Sun 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Medical
1
Branch Health Clinic Naval Base Coronado — Branch Health Clinic
Childcare & Youth
Coming soon
MWR & Recreation
Employment & Education
Coming soon
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about NAB Coronado.
01
Are the base gates open 24 hours?
All 2 gates at NAB Coronado operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Access levels vary by gate — some are restricted to military and DoD ID holders only.
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02
How do visitor passes work?
Visitors must be sponsored by someone with base access and should contact the installation's Visitor Control Center in advance with their government-issued ID and vehicle info. Day passes are issued at the gate; extended access may require additional coordination.
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03
What is BAH and how is it calculated?
BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) is a monthly stipend based on your pay grade, dependency status, and the duty station ZIP code — it is not counted as taxable income. Rates are updated each January; use the BAH Calculator in the Finance section to see current figures for NAB Coronado.
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04
What should I do first after receiving PCS orders?
Contact the gaining installation's housing office and military transportation office (TMO/PPSO) immediately after orders are issued. Apply for on-base housing right away — waitlists at many installations run 6–18 months.
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05
Does TRICARE cover local providers?
TRICARE covers both the on-base military treatment facility and authorized civilian providers in the surrounding community. Use the provider finder at tricare.mil to confirm in-network options near NAB Coronado.
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Question
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Data & Methodology
How we source this −
Information is compiled from DoD publications, official installation websites, and reviewed by military personnel. Independent publication — not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.