Naval Base Point Loma
Naval Base Point Loma PCS Guide
Military Base History
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Naval Base Point Loma began in the early 20th century, when the U.S. Navy saw the strategic value of San Diego Bay. The Navy first developed the site in 1901 as a coaling station, then expanded it to support submarine operations.
The base’s location on Point Loma offered natural protection and deep-water access. These features made it an ideal site for naval activities and helped shape its future role in the region.
During World War II, the base expanded rapidly. New piers, barracks, and support facilities were built to handle more personnel and vessels.
Submarine operations became the central mission during the war. The base served as a key training and deployment hub for Pacific Fleet submarines, and its importance continued to grow during the Cold War.
In the Cold War era, the base supported advanced undersea warfare research and hosted several specialized commands. This period marked a shift toward technological innovation and strategic operations.
Over the decades, the installation’s name and structure changed. Originally called Naval Submarine Base San Diego, it was consolidated and renamed Naval Base Point Loma in 1998.
The 1998 name change reflected integration of multiple commands and facilities on the peninsula. This included the Submarine Base, Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center, and various research and support units.
Today, Naval Base Point Loma is a critical hub for undersea warfare, communications, and research. It hosts major tenant commands such as Submarine Squadron 11 and the Naval Information Warfare Systems Command.
The base supports fleet operations, advanced technology development, and serves as a vital economic and community partner in the San Diego region.
Major Units & Training Programs
250404-N-SS900-1065 NAVAL BASE POINT LOMA (April 4, 2025) Capt. Will Wiley, commander, Submarine Squadron (CSS) 11, presents the Battle “E” unit award to the floating dry dock ARCO (ARDM 5) during an awards-at-quarters at the Roncador Memorial onboard Naval Base Point Loma, April 4, 2025....
Major Units
Commander, Submarine Squadron 11 (COMSUBRON 11)
Oversees operations, training, and maintenance for assigned Los Angeles-class submarines, ensuring combat readiness for undersea warfare and strategic deterrence missions.
Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR)
Leads the development and support of advanced information warfare and command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) systems for the U.S. Navy.
Naval Special Warfare Group 1 (NSWG-1)
Organizes, trains, and equips West Coast-based SEAL Teams and support units for global special operations missions.
Training Schools
Naval Submarine Learning Center Detachment San Diego
Overview
Provides specialized technical training for submarine crews, focusing on submarine systems, operations, and maintenance.
Course Length
Varies by course (typically 2-8 weeks)
Who Attends
Submarine officers and enlisted personnel
Arrival & In-Processing
SAN FRANCISCO (Oct. 12, 2016) –The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine, USS San Francisco (SSN 711), transits under the Golden Gate bridge as it departs San Francisco Bay. San Francisco is returning to her homeport at Naval Base Point Loma in San Diego to officially conclude her final...
Welcome to Naval Base Point Loma! Arriving at a new duty station is an exciting step, and being prepared will help your check-in process go smoothly. Take time to review access requirements and gather all necessary documents before your arrival. For more details, visit the official Naval Base Point Loma website.
Naval Base Point Loma's main entrance is the Harbor Drive Gate, which is the primary access point for most personnel and families. The Harbor Drive Gate operates 24/7, ensuring access at any time, while other gates may have limited hours—check the base website for updates. All adults must present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or approved visitor pass. State-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates and be prepared for random vehicle inspections as part of the base's heightened security posture. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, report to the Visitor Control Center just outside the main gate with valid ID and your sponsor's information.
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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 available)
Naval Base Point Loma offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals transition smoothly. Contact your gaining unit or command to request a sponsor, or use the online request form found on the base website. Your sponsor will provide guidance on check-in, housing, and local resources.
Report to the Welcome Center, located near the Harbor Drive Gate, for formal in-processing. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 0730–1600. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan for in-processing to take 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and office wait times.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Harbor Drive Main Gate. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturdays from 0800–1200. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. Bring valid identification and your sponsor's contact information for assistance.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Then-Pfc. Justin Enzenbacher, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Kentucky, places his pub Ludo into his car for a ride in April 2022. Taking steps to prepare for a long road trip associated with a permanent change of station can reduce stress during a PCS move. (Photo by Ethan Steinquest)
PCSing to Naval Base Point Loma starts with receiving your official orders. Once you have orders, contact your current base’s transportation office to schedule your move and access the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). DPS is the DoD’s online tool for managing all aspects of your household goods (HHG) shipment or Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). Most service members choose to ship their HHG, but a PPM offers flexibility and the chance to earn reimbursement if you manage the move yourself.
You are entitled to several key benefits during your move. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover lodging and meals while you secure housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) offsets relocation costs. Carefully track receipts and know your weight allowance to avoid out-of-pocket costs. Naval Base Point Loma’s location in San Diego means high demand for housing, so start your housing search early and use base resources for support. For more on entitlements, see the DoD’s official allowance site.
Upon arrival, check in at the base’s Housing Office and connect with your sponsor if assigned. The base’s Transportation Office can help with HHG delivery and claims. Use Military OneSource and local resources for relocation support and area orientation.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with check-in and local info.
- Contact the Transportation Office as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Start your base housing or rental search as soon as possible; San Diego housing is competitive.
- Take photos of your belongings before packing for claims purposes.
- Label boxes clearly with room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Plan for pet relocation and quarantine requirements well in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Access and manage your PCS move online.
Check current DLA, TLE, and per diem rates.
Guides and support for your PCS move.
Local housing information and support.
Schools & Childcare
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Naval Base Point Loma does not have DoDEA schools on base. Instead, military families rely on local public, private, and charter schools in the San Diego area. The region is known for strong school districts with a variety of academic and extracurricular programs. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your key resource for navigating school enrollment, special education, and transition support. Contact the SLO early to discuss your family's needs and get personalized guidance on school choices.
Childcare Options
Naval Base Point Loma Child Development Center (CDC)
Full-day and part-day care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The CDC is NAEYC accredited and prioritizes military families.
Point Loma School Age Care (SAC) Program
Before- and after-school care, plus summer camps, for school-age children. Programs focus on recreation, homework assistance, and social skills.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
In-home care with certified providers, offering flexible hours and smaller group sizes. FCC homes are inspected and meet Navy standards.
Local Schools
San Diego Unified School District
San Diego Unified is one of California's largest districts, known for diverse academic programs, strong STEM offerings, and above-average graduation rates. Many schools in the district receive 7-9 ratings on GreatSchools.org.
Point Loma High School
Point Loma High is highly rated for its college prep curriculum, Advanced Placement courses, and strong athletics. GreatSchools.org rates it 7/10, and it is popular with military families.
High Tech High Point Loma
High Tech High is a respected public charter school emphasizing project-based learning and STEM. It is known for small class sizes and a hands-on approach. Admission is by lottery.