Naval Base Coronado
Naval Base Coronado PCS Guide
Military Base History
Coronado, Calif. (May 4, 2023) An aerial view of a Navy Enterprise Tactical Command and Control (NETC2) tent configuration used by Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 1 during a Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Integrated Exercise (NIEX) at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, May 4, 2023. A...
Naval Base Coronado began as a strategic coastal installation supporting naval aviation and amphibious operations. Established in the early 20th century, its original mission focused on training and supporting Navy personnel, especially aviators and amphibious forces.
The base's location on the Silver Strand in California provided ideal access to both open ocean and protected bays. This unique geography enabled efficient training and deployment for a variety of naval missions.
During World War II, the base underwent rapid expansion to meet the demands of the Pacific Theater. Construction included new runways, barracks, and training facilities to support increased activity.
Coronado became a hub for naval aviation, hosting carrier-based squadrons and serving as a launch point for amphibious assaults. The base also supported the development and training of Underwater Demolition Teams, the forerunners of the Navy SEALs.
Throughout the Cold War, Naval Base Coronado adapted to changing military needs. It became home to elite units such as the SEAL Teams and Special Boat Teams, as well as key aviation commands.
The base expanded to include multiple outlying fields and annexes, forming a complex of facilities under unified command. In 1997, the installation was officially designated as "Naval Base Coronado," consolidating several previously separate facilities, including Naval Air Station North Island and Naval Amphibious Base Coronado.
Today, Naval Base Coronado serves as a critical support center for the U.S. Navy's Pacific operations. It hosts over 30 tenant commands, including major aviation, special warfare, and logistics units.
The base plays a vital role in regional security, military readiness, and the local economy. Naval Base Coronado maintains its legacy as a cornerstone of naval power projection on the West Coast.
Major Units & Training Programs
240606-N-TO792-1067 CORONADO, Calif. (June 6, 2024) A Navy SEAL briefs teachers and administrators from Arizona and New Mexico during a tour of Naval Special Warfare Basic Training Command on Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. The purpose of the visit was to give educators a greater understanding...
Major Units
Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC)
Serves as the headquarters for all U.S. Navy SEALs and Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen (SWCC), overseeing global special operations and training.
Commander, Naval Air Forces Pacific (COMNAVAIRPAC)
Provides oversight, training, and readiness for all U.S. Pacific Fleet naval aviation units, ensuring operational effectiveness and safety.
Helicopter Sea Combat Wing, Pacific (HSCWINGPAC)
Manages and supports helicopter sea combat squadrons, providing search and rescue, logistics, and special operations support to the fleet.
Training Schools
Naval Special Warfare Basic Training Command (NSWBTC) – BUD/S
Overview
Conducts Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training, preparing candidates for the physical and mental demands of Navy SEAL service through intense physical conditioning, water competency, and small unit tactics.
Course Length
24 weeks
Who Attends
Navy SEAL candidates
Arrival & In-Processing
Capt. Chris Bolt, commanding officer of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), “America’s Flagship,” speaks with guests after the annual Coronado Speed Festival award ceremony hosted in the ship’s hangar bay. This festival was created in 1997 to honor the military while...
Welcome to Naval Base Coronado! Arriving at a new duty station is an exciting time, and being well-prepared helps ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. Knowing the required steps and documents before you arrive can make your check-in process much faster and less stressful. For more details, visit the official Naval Base Coronado website.
Naval Base Coronado's main entrance is the Main Gate, located at the northern end of the base. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel and vehicles. All personnel must show a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued credential at entry. Family members and visitors must have a valid REAL ID-compliant driver's license or passport. The base enforces 100% ID checks and may conduct random vehicle inspections to maintain security. If you are sponsoring a visitor or family member, stop at the gate and follow instructions for obtaining a temporary pass. All guests must be vetted and registered before entry. The security team maintains a vigilant posture to protect all personnel and assets on base.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates (for dependents)
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (if arranged in advance)
Naval Base Coronado offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in quickly. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's administrative office or use the online sponsor request form available through your command. Sponsors provide local guidance, answer questions, and assist with in-processing.
Report to the Welcome Center (Building 678), located near the Main Gate, for in-processing. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 0730–1600. Key steps include check-in with Personnel Support Detachment (PSD), Finance, Housing, Medical/Dental, and your assigned unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your situation and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturday, 0800–1200. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsoring non-DoD visitors. All visitors must be accompanied by a sponsor and present valid identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Ronald Jackson and Marsha Whitmire, quality assurance inspectors with the 72nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, inspect a moldy pallet at the business location of a local moving company. The company had received the pallet in less-than-desirable condition and immediately notified the Personal Property and Passenger Movement Section.
When you receive PCS orders to Naval Base Coronado, start by reviewing your official orders and contacting your local Transportation Office. They will help you understand your move options, including a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), sometimes called a DITY move. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment. DPS is your main tool for managing your move, so set up your account early.
You may qualify for entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps cover lodging costs while you search for permanent housing, and DLA helps offset relocation expenses. Review your eligibility and keep receipts for all expenses. Naval Base Coronado is a high-demand area, so plan ahead and communicate with your sponsor and base housing office as soon as possible.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to get local insights and support.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents in a safe, accessible place during your move.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess fees.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Contact base housing as soon as orders are received; waitlists can be long.
- Plan for pet transportation and quarantine requirements early.
- Avoid peak PCS months (May–August) if possible for easier scheduling.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule, manage, and track your PCS move.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other allowances.
Access relocation tools, checklists, and support services.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.
Find local resources and base-specific information for newcomers.
Schools & Childcare
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Naval Base Coronado does not have DoDEA schools on base. Military families rely on local public and private schools in the greater San Diego area. School quality varies by district, but many nearby schools are highly rated and offer specialized programs like STEM and the arts. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your main point of contact for navigating school enrollment, understanding California education requirements, and connecting with local resources. The SLO can help with school transfers, special education, and provides updates on district changes. Reach out early to the SLO for personalized support and to ensure a smooth transition for your child.
Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC) – Naval Base Coronado
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care. The center is NAEYC-accredited and provides age-appropriate curriculum for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
School Age Care (SAC) Program
This program offers before- and after-school care, homework help, and summer camps for school-age children. Accredited and designed for military families.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC providers offer care in certified homes on or near base. Flexible options include full-time, part-time, and hourly care. All providers meet Navy standards and receive regular inspections.
Local Schools
Coronado Unified School District
Coronado Unified serves the island and is known for strong academics, small class sizes, and a supportive community. State test scores and graduation rates are above the California average. GreatSchools.org often rates its schools 8/10 or higher.
Silver Strand Elementary School
Located near the Silver Strand housing area, this elementary school is praised for its military-friendly environment and high parent involvement. GreatSchools.org rates it 8/10.
Coronado High School
Coronado High offers AP courses, strong arts and athletics, and a safe campus. The school boasts high graduation rates and is well-regarded in the region.
Sacred Heart Parish School
This private Catholic school serves K-8 and is known for its nurturing environment, strong academics, and values-based education. It is popular with military families seeking a faith-based option.