Welcome to Vandenberg SFB! Your New Duty Station Guide

Welcome to Vandenberg Space Force Base, home to Space Launch Delta 30. Space Launch Delta 30 supports launch activities for the Air Force, Department of War, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, national programs, and some private industry contractors. The base, located on the central coast of California in Santa Barbara County, covers more than 98,000 acres and about 44 miles of the Pacific coastline. Almost 4,000 people live on base, and over 15,000 servicemen and civilians work here.

Where Is Vandenberg Space Force Base?

Address: 747 Nebraska Ave., Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Base Operator: (805) 606-1110

Procedures for Entering the Base

Whether you’re coming to Vandenberg Space Force Base for a PCS or just to visit, here is some information to help your arrival go smoothly.

Getting to Vandenberg Space Force Base From Popular Cities

Vandenberg Space Force Base is within an hour from the Santa Maria Airport in Santa Maria, California. Other major cities and drive times are listed below.

Santa Barbara: Drive time from base to Santa Barbara area is about 1 hour.

San Luis Obispo: Drive time from base to San Luis Obispo area is about 1 hour.

Gates & Hours of Operation

Vandenberg Space Force Base has many different gates, but the primary gates are the Santa Maria Gate and the South Gate. Other access points are listed below.

Santa Maria Main Gate

The Santa Maria Gate is the main gate to Vandenberg Space Force Base. The Visitor Control Center is located just outside this gate and is where visitors may obtain a pass for entering through all other gates unaccompanied.

Location: 6 California Blvd., Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

VCC Hours: Monday through Friday, 0600-1800

VCC Phone: (805) 606-7663

South Gate

Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Solvang Gate

Hours: Daily, 0600-2000

Lompoc Gate

Commercial Traffic ONLY: Daily, 0600-1200

All Traffic Hours: Daily, 1200-1800

Incoming Personnel

All service members reporting to Vandenberg Space Force Base will report to assigned units. Vandenberg Space Force Base offers a 10-day program for first-time service members reporting to their first duty station, covering essentials for success.

Coming to Vandenberg Space Force Base? Here’s What You Need For Base Access

Anyone visiting with a Department of Defence (DoD) Common Access Card and/or retired military ID can access the base through any gate.

If visitors (18+) do not have a DoD Common Access Card or retired military ID, they must go to the Visitor Control Center (VCC) with a US ID in the form of a Real ID and/or Enhanced Driver’s License.

If visitors do not have a Real ID/Enhanced driver's license, a retired military ID, a DoD Common Access Card, or a service-connected Veterans Card, they must bring another form of US ID, such as a passport, Social Security card, or birth certificate to the visitor control center.

Visitor Control Centers

Vandenberg Space Force Base has one Visitor Control Center that can help visitors gain access to the base.

Location: 6 California Blvd., Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Friday, 0600-1800

Phone: (805) 606-7663

What ID Do You Need For Base Access?

Anyone with a valid DoD-issued ID card is permitted onto the base. To access the installation as a guest of a valid DoD ID holder, you are required to present one of the following:

• U.S. Military ID (all members of the U.S. Armed Forces, military retirees and dependent ID card holders, Gov't Civilian CAC card holders)
• Veterans Health Identification Card issued by the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• U.S. Passport
• U.S. Passport Card
• State-issued Identification, such as a driver’s license or identification card issued by a state that meets the REAL ID standards or an Interim Driver’s License issued by a state that meets the REAL ID standards

Base Amenities & Facilities

Vandenberg Space Force Base has all the amenities you need to make this new duty station your home. Below are some of the key resources you’ll want to be familiar with.

Medical

The 30th Medical Group serves three primary care clinics (Family Health, Pediatric, Space Medicine), offering acute care, routine care, preventative care, and minor procedures. Also available are pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, and a health and wellness center.

Address: 338 South Dakota Ave., Building 13850, Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA 93437

Hours: Hours vary by clinic. Check your assigned home clinic for detailed information.

Appointments Phone: (805) 606-CARE​

Finance Office

The Finance Office is dedicated to making sure service members get accurate pay and resolving pay issues.

Address: 1031 California Avenue Building #11777, Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Friday (except Wed), 0830-1530; Wednesday, 1000-1530

Phone: (805) 606-4606

Legal Office

The Legal Office is available to service members, retirees, and family members. The office provides legal services such as Power of Attorney, notary, basic and living wills, and information on other legal matters.

Address: 747 Nebraska Ave Building #10577, Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA 93437

Hours: Monday & Wednesday, 0800-1600; Tuesday & Friday, 0900-1600; Thursday, 1200-1600

Phone: (805) 605-6200

Commissary

The Vandenberg Space Force Base Commissary is a grocery store on base offering cost-savings to service members and families.

Address: 135 Wyoming Avenue Building #14300, Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Friday, 0930-1900; Saturday & Sunday, 1030-1800

Phone: (805) 734-3354

Exchange

The Vandenberg Space Force Base Exchange is a chopping complex that aims to meet the needs of service members and families. You will find everything from department store items, a barber shop, On the Play Gaming, a food court, and more.

Address: 10400 Community Loop Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Friday, 0900-1800; Saturday & Sunday 1030-1800

Phone: (805) 734-5521

Post Office

The United States Postal Service has an office on base for all your mailing needs.

Address: 100 Community Loop #10373, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Friday, 0900-1230 & 1330-1600

Phone: (805) 734-2336

Transportation Office

The Transportation Office can oversee your property shipments and help your PCS run smoothly.

Address: 747 Nebraska Ave., Bldg. 10577 Room A-102, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 0900-1500; Students. 1500-1600; Fridays by appointment

Phone: (805) 606-0290/0902

ID/DEERs Office

The Vandenberg Space Force Base ID/DEERs Office is operated by the Military Personnel Flight and can help with getting or renewing military ID cards and enrolling or updating DEERs for service members, veterans, and families. You can schedule an appointment, utilize walk-in hours, or use the Online Card Renewal System.

Address: 747 Nebraska Ave. Bldg. 10577, Room A103, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Walk-In Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 0830-1500; First Fridays, 0900-1500

Appointment Hours: Tuesday, 0830-1500; Thursday 1100-1500

Phone: (805) 606-7756

Barber Shops

Make sure your hair is within regulation at any one of Vandenberg Space Force Base’s barber shops.

Main Exchange

Address: 10400 Community Loop, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Friday, 1000-1700

Phone: (805) 734-0400

Village Barber Shop

Address: 3734 Constellation Rd #H, Lompoc, CA 93436

Hours: Tuesday, 0800-1700; Wednesday through Friday, 0800-1730; Saturday, 0800-1300

Phone: (805) 733-2559

Oaks Barber Shop

Address: 3865 Constellation Rd #D, Lompoc, CA 93436

Hours: Tuesday through Friday 1000-1800; Saturday 0800-1700

Phone: (805) 733-2644

Kings Barber Shop

Address: 115 E College Ave, Lompoc, CA 93436

Hours: Tuesday through Friday 1000-1800; Saturday 0900-1600

Phone: (805) 743-4392

Force Support Squadron (FSS)

The 30th Force Support Squadron (FSS), in combination with Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), on Vandenberg Space Force Base offers a multitude of support to families calling the base home. From ID Cards, Child and Youth Services (CYS), to golf, fine dining, and everything in between, FSS wants to make sure you thrive at your new duty station. Check out their website to see all they have to offer.

Address: Bldg. 11777 (Corner of California & Utah Avenues), Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Hours vary by resource. Check out the list below for a few favorites.

Phone: (805) 606-6200

Library

Vandenberg Library has books, programs for patrons of all ages, and computers, making sure you have plenty to read while you’re here.

Address: 100 Community Loop, Bldg. 10343A, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 1000-1700; Thursday, 1200-1900; Saturday, 1000-1400

Phone: (805) 606-6414

Auto Hobby Shop

The DIY Auto Hobby Shop provides a space for auto maintenance and hobby work. Featuring work bays, hydraulic lifts, and computerized equipment, you will find everything you need to get the job done right.

Address: Bldg. 10260, Alaska Ave, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday, 1230-1930; Saturday & Sunday, 0930-1630

Phone: (805) 606-6013

Bowling

The Surf Lanes Bowling facility offers 16 lanes, league play, lessons, parties, Surf Lanes Grill, and more.

Address: 10366 Community Loop, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Tuesday & Thursday, 1100-2000; Wednesday, 0930-2000; Friday, 1100-2100; Saturday, 1300-2100

Phone: (805) 606-3209

Fitness Center

Duane G. Wolfe Fitness Center strives to meet the mental and physical needs of service members, retirees, and families by offering a diversified program that includes weight training equipment, fitness classes, outdoor fitness areas, basketball/volleyball courts, and more.

Address: 10130 Washington Ave, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Friday, 0430-2230; Saturday and Sunday, 0800-2000 (after-hours access registration available)

Phone: (805) 606-3832

Aquatics

Vandenberg Family Aquatic Center has all your water needs with two heated outdoor pools and a tot pool for the littles.

Address: Bldg. 10144 (Corner of California Blvd and Washington Ave, behind the A&FRC)

Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Lap Swim Hours: Monday through Friday, 0600-0830 & 1015-1215; Monday through Thursday, 1700-1830; Saturday, 0930-1130

Rec Swim Hours: Monday through Friday, 1230-1530; Saturday, 1230-1600

Phone: (805) 606-3581

Childcare

Vandenberg Space Force Base has a Child Development Center (CDC) offering hourly and weekly childcare for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. The program is certified and accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Address: 16177 Summersill Ave, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Phone: (805) 606-1555

Youth Programs

Vandenberg Space Force Base Youth Programs offers before and after school care, open rec, instructional programs, and more. Check the website linked above for a full list of services.

Address: 16170 Summersill Ave, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Phone: (805) 606-2152

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)

The Exceptional Family Member Program is designed to support those who are responsible for managing care and services for family members with special needs. The EFMP Medical Office is for enrollments and assignments. The EFMP Family Support Office can help with individualized assistance, workshops, and information about programs. EFMP at Vandenberg Space Force Base is located within the Military & Family Readiness Center.

Address: 706 Washington Ave, Bldg. 10122, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Appointment Hours: Monday through Friday, 0730-1630

Walk-In Hours: Monday through Friday, 0900-1500

Phone: (805) 606-0039

Vandenberg Space Force Base Dining Facilities

There are numerous ways to dine on base at Vandenberg Space Force Base in addition to traditional DFACs. Below are a few favorites.

Pacific Coast Center

Within the Pacific Coast Center, you’ll find a cafe for breakfast and lunch items and Space Bar & Grill for dinner and entertainment.

Address: 758 Nebraska Ave, Lompoc, CA 93437

Cafe Hours: Monday through Friday, 0645-1300

Space Bar & Grill Hours: Wednesday through Friday, 1530-2100

Cafe Phone: (805) 606-3330

Space Bar & Grill Phone: (805) 605-5806

Exchange Food Court

The Main Exchange Food Court has all your favorites from Cubanissimo, Subway, Domino’s, and more.

Address: 10400 Community Loop, P.O. Box 5668, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Restaurant hours vary. Check the website linked above for more information.

Phone: (805) 734-5521

Surf Lanes Grill

Get your favorites like burgers, pizza, and BBQ at Surf Lanes Grill located within the Surf Lanes Bowling Center.

Address: 10366 Community Loop, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 1100-1930; Friday, 1100-2000; Saturday, 1300-2000

Phone: (805) 606-7500

Vandenberg Space Force Base Housing

Vandenberg Space Force Base offers unaccompanied housing and privatized housing.

Housing Office

The Vandenberg Space Force Base Housing Services Office can help you make decisions about where to live and how to apply.

Address: 602 Juniper St Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA 93437

Phone: (805) 734-1445

Unaccompanied Housing

Unaccompanied Housing (UH) is provided for single or unaccompanied Airmen in the ranks of E-1 to E-3 and E-4 with less than three years of service. Any unaccompanied E-4 with more than three years will move into housing in the local community.

Address: 347 S Dakota Ave Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA 93437

Phone: (805) 605-2048

Privatized Housing & Vandenberg Family Homes

Vandenberg Space Force Base has privatized families living on base. Vandenberg Family Homes partners with Balfour Beatty Communities to provide housing for military families of Vandenberg Space Force Base, responsible for management, maintenance, and construction. Vandenberg Family Homes offers 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom layouts, bike paths, parks and playgrounds, beach access, and so much more!

As soon as you know you’re coming to Vandenberg Space Force Base, get on the list to reserve your spot on base.

Address: 602 Juniper Street, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Monday through Friday (except Wednesday), 0800-1700; Wednesday, 0800-1800

Phone: (805) 734-1445

Off-Base Housing & Military Preferred Living Areas

Vandenberg Space Force Base is located on the sunny California coast. You’ll find lots of sun and sand, and a mix of small towns and big cities. Some popular cities include Lompoc, Santa Maria, and Santa Barbara. Smaller towns include Orcutt, Mission Hills, and Casmalia. We’re listing two of our favorite cities and two of our favorite towns below.

Lompoc, CA, Santa Barbara County

Lompoc is about 15 minutes from Vandenberg Space Force Base and home to nearly 40,000 residents. Lompoc has much to explore in terms of art, theater, and local wineries.

Median listing home price: $632,000

Median rental rate: $2,200

Schools: Lompoc Unified School District serves more than 9,000 students P-K through 12th grade across many schools across Lompoc, Vandenberg Village, Mesa Oaks, Mission Hills, Vandenberg Space Force Base, and surrounding rural areas. According to Niche, a popular school-ranking site, Lompoc Unified School District received a B- rating. Visit the Lompoc Unified School District website to find the schools you’re zoned for.

Santa Maria, CA, Santa Barbara County

Santa Maria is about 20 minutes from Vandenberg Space Force Base and home to nearly 100,000 residents. This city is known as the BBQ capital of California and is big into the film and tv scene (lots of movies and shows were filmed here).

Median listing home price: $650,000

Median rental rate: $2,300

Schools: Santa Maria-Bonita School District serves more than 17,000 students P-K through 8th grade across many schools around the city, and Santa Maria Joint Union High School District serves more than 9,000 high school students around the city. According to Niche, a popular school-ranking site, Santa Maria-Bonita School District received a C- rating, and the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District received a B rating. Visit the district websites linked above to find the schools you’re zoned for.

Orcutt, CA, Santa Barbara County

Orcutt is about 15 minutes from Vandenberg Space Force Base and home to nearly 35,000 residents. A smaller, unincorporated town near base, Orcutt offers small-town feels while still being close enough to bigger city amenities.

Median listing home price: $860,000

Median rental rate: $3,000

Schools: Orcutt Union School District serves more than 4,700 students P-K through 12th grade across 10 schools. According to Niche, a popular school-ranking site, Orcutt Union School District received an A- rating. Visit the district website linked above to find the school you’re zoned for.

Mission Hills, CA, Santa Barbara County

Mission Hills is an unincorporated town near Lompoc about 20 minutes from Vandenberg Space Force Base and home to nearly 35,000 residents. Away from the bustle of the city, Mission Hills offers a small-town community while still being able to access city resources nearby.

Median listing home price: $780,000

Median rental rate: $3,000

Schools: Lompoc Unified School District serves more than 9,000 students P-K through 12th grade across many schools in Lompoc, Vandenberg Village, Mesa Oaks, Mission Hills, Vandenberg Space Force Base, and surrounding rural areas. According to Niche, a popular school-ranking site, Lompoc Unified School District received a B- rating. Visit the Lompoc Unified School District website to find the schools you’re zoned for.

Vandenberg Space Force Base Schools

Base Schools (K-12)

Schools on Vandenberg Space Force Base are operated under the Lompoc Unified School District. The base hosts Crestview Elementary School for students in TK-6th grade. Middle School and High School students will attend Vandenberg Middle School and Cabrillo High School located off base.

Off-Base Schools (K-12)

Students residing in nearby communities off base will attend schools depending upon location. Check individual district websites to determine the schools you are zoned for based upon your address.

Local Employment Assistance & Resources

Employment Assistance Program

The Employment Assistance Program provides support to spouses and dependent family members seeking career development and job search assistance. Services are available through the Military & Family Readiness Center on Vandenberg Space Force Base by calling (805) 606-0039.

Local Employment Resources

City of Lompoc

Official job listings for the City of Lompoc.

Santa Barbara County

Official job listings for Santa Barbara County.

Lompoc Unified School District

See openings in Lompoc Unified School District.

City of Santa Maria

Official job listings for the City of Santa Maria.

Santa Maria-Bonita School District

See openings in Santa Maria-Bonita School District.

Santa Maria Joint Union High School District

See openings in Santa Maria Joint Union High School District.

Orcutt Union School District

See openings in Orcutt Union School District.

Vandenberg Space Force Base Civilian Opportunities

Federal Jobs

Federal employment opportunities are available at Vandenberg Space Force Base and are open to both military-affiliated applicants and the public. These positions often provide competitive benefits and long-term stability. You can find employment for NAF positions, Defence Commissary Agency (DeCA), Child Development Centers, and more. Find your federal job using the USAJOBS website here.

Enjoy Your Time at Vandenberg SFB!

Your transition to a new duty station is a major life event, but you are not alone in navigating it. Vandenberg Space Force Base, located on California's beautiful central coast, provides a unique experience to live and work where vital launch operations happen. If you are supporting Space Launch Delta 30's critical launch missions, or managing your family's needs, this installation offers exceptional resources and support. As you prepare for your Permanent Change of Station (PCS), make sure you check in at the Visitor Control Center, and if it is your first duty station, take advantage of the 10-day onboarding program.

Whether you live in the privatized community at Vandenberg Family Homes or off-base in Lompoc, Santa Maria, or Orcutt, reach out to the Housing Office early to explore your options. Remember to balance your responsibilities with relaxation by using the on-base amenities, such as the Surf Lanes Bowling Center, the Family Aquatic Center, and local recreational spots.

For ongoing support, the Military & Family Readiness Center and your unit sponsor are ready to assist. Enjoy the spectacular rocket launches from your backyard and make the most of the vibrant Central California lifestyle during your time at Vandenberg SFB!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I live on Vandenberg Space Force Base without children?

Yes, housing options on base are determined by rank and marital status.

Can I live on Vandenberg Space Force Base if I'm not married?

Yes, Soldiers E3 and below and E4 with less than 3 years of service are required to live in the barracks.

What are the PT hours for Vandenberg Space Force Base?

Vandenberg Space Force Base PT is managed at the squadron level, so PT times vary.

Can I use coupons at the commissary?

Yes. As part of the Defence Commissary Agency (DeCA), the Vandenberg Space Force Base Commissary will accept manufacturer paper coupons, print-at-home coupons, and digital coupons.

Is Vandenberg Space Force Base hands-free?

Yes. Vandenberg Space Force Base and State laws prohibit holding and using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.