About MCAS Miramar
Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, located in San Diego, California, is home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. The base serves as a premier location for Marine aviation units, providing support to a wide array of training and operational missions.
Known for hosting the annual Miramar Air Show, the base plays a key role in national defense by supporting air combat operations. Its strategic location allows for seamless coordination with other military bases in the region, contributing to the readiness and preparedness of U.S. military forces.
In this Article
MCAS Miramar Local Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar or planning a move to this historic base in San Diego, our veterans guide is here to provide all the information you need. From housing options on base or in nearby areas like La Jolla and Poway, to exploring the vibrant local attractions of San Diego, this guide ensures a smooth transition. Learn about housing, financial resources, military discounts, and support services available to veterans at MCAS Miramar.
Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (858) 577-1111
- Housing Office: +1 (858) 577-1234
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (858) 577-9999
- Family Support Office: +1 (858) 577-9988
- Legal Office: +1 (858) 577-9977
Address: Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, 45245 Miramar Way, San Diego, CA 92145, United States
Mission
MCAS Miramar’s mission is to provide support to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW) and other tenant commands, ensuring operational readiness and mission success. It serves as a base for aviation training, maintenance, and deployment preparation.
History
- Established: 1917 as Camp Kearny
- Evolution:
- Used as a training field during World War I and II.
- Became MCAS Miramar in 1996 after transitioning from Navy to Marine Corps operations.
- Significance:
- Former home of the Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN).
- Continues to be a hub for Marine Corps aviation.
Location
- Coordinates: 32.8684° N, 117.1424° W
- Website: MCAS Miramar Official Website
- Phone: +1 (858) 577-1011
- Hours of Operation:
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–4:30 PM; Closed on weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7
Base Location and Directions
Address:
Marine Corps Air Station Miramar
San Diego, CA 92145
Driving Directions:
- From San Diego International Airport: Take I-5 N to I-805 N, then exit onto Miramar Rd. Follow signs to the main gate (approx. 20 minutes).
- From Los Angeles: Use I-5 S and transition to I-805 S. Exit at Miramar Rd. and follow signs to the base (approx. 2 hours).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 12,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 3,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 9,000
- Total Population Served: Over 24,000
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: MCAS Miramar offers on-base housing managed by Liberty Military Housing. Off-base options are available in nearby communities such as La Jolla, Poway, and Mira Mesa. The Housing Office assists military families in securing housing. Contact them at +1 (858) 577-1234.
- Nearby cities like San Diego, La Jolla, and Poway offer a variety of rental homes and properties for sale.
- Current median home prices in La Jolla: $1,800,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: MCAS Miramar is located near Interstate 15 and Interstate 805, providing easy access to downtown San Diego and surrounding areas. Public transportation is available through San Diego’s Metropolitan Transit System (MTS).
- Medical and Emergency Services: Naval Branch Health Clinic Miramar provides medical services to active-duty personnel and families, including primary care and specialty care. For emergency services or more information, contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (858) 577-9999.
- Dining Facilities: MCAS Miramar has several dining facilities, including the Flightline Dining Facility and various fast-food options. Off-base, nearby areas like Mira Mesa and La Jolla offer a variety of dining experiences, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: The base features state-of-the-art fitness centers with cardio machines, weight rooms, and group classes. MCAS Miramar also offers outdoor recreational facilities, including sports fields and running trails.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: MCAS Miramar does not have any on-base schools, but children living on base typically attend schools in the San Diego Unified School District or Poway Unified School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base have access to schools in San Diego and the surrounding communities, including La Jolla and Poway. Higher education opportunities are available at University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and San Diego State University.
- Child Development Center (CDC): MCAS Miramar offers a Child Development Center for daycare and preschool services. Families can contact the CDC directly for enrollment details.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: MCAS Miramar is surrounded by outdoor activities, including hiking at Torrey Pines State Reserve, surfing at nearby beaches, and exploring local parks. The base is also close to Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a Navy Exchange and commissary for essential shopping. Off-base, Mira Mesa, La Jolla, and the greater San Diego area offer extensive shopping centers and restaurants, including Westfield UTC Mall and local farmers markets.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Veterans organizations such as the VFW and American Legion in San Diego offer resources and services for military members and veterans.
- Family Support Office: The Family Support Office provides deployment support, financial counseling, and other resources for military families. Contact them at +1 (858) 577-9988.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office provides services such as wills, powers of attorney, and more. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (858) 577-9977 for assistance with legal matters.
Base History and Mission: Established in 1917, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar has a rich history of supporting naval aviation and Marine Corps operations. Today, it serves as the home of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, providing critical air support to Marine and Navy forces worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the main mission of MCAS Miramar? | The base supports Marine aviation units and air combat operations for the U.S. Marine Corps. |
| Can civilians attend the Miramar Air Show? | Yes, the Miramar Air Show is open to the public and is held annually, showcasing military aircraft. |
| What units are stationed at MCAS Miramar? | MCAS Miramar is home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and several Marine aviation squadrons. |
| How large is MCAS Miramar? | The base covers approximately 23,000 acres of land in San Diego, California. |
| Are there housing options available on base? | Yes, military personnel and their families have access to various housing options on and near the base. |
| What amenities are available on MCAS Miramar? | The base has schools, medical facilities, recreational areas, and shopping centers for military families. |
| What aircraft are based at MCAS Miramar? | MCAS Miramar hosts various aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornets and MV-22 Ospreys. |
| How do I contact MCAS Miramar for general inquiries? | You can contact the base by phone at (858) 577-1011 or by email at [email protected]. |
| Does MCAS Miramar provide educational resources? | Yes, the base offers educational support and resources for military personnel and their families. |
| What is the role of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing? | The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing provides aviation support for ground and amphibious operations. |
All Military Bases in California
- Beale Air Force Base – Home of Advanced Reconnaissance Aircraft
- Camp Parks – Training Site for Army Reserve Personnel
- Camp Roberts – Comprehensive Training Center for U.S. Armed Forces
- Coast Guard Base Los Angeles/Long Beach – West Coast Support Hub
- Coast Guard Island – Administrative Hub for Pacific Operations
- Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma – Advanced Technical Training Facility
- Edwards Air Force Base – Air Force Testing and Development Center
- Fort Irwin – Home of the National Training Center
- Marine Corps Air Station Miramar – Base of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing
- Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton – Major Marine Corps Training Facility
- Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow – Logistics Support Hub for the Corps
- Naval Air Station Lemoore – Navy’s Largest Master Jet Base
- Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake – Navy’s Weapons Development Center
- Naval Base Coronado – Premier Training Center for Naval Operations
- Naval Base San Diego – Major Navy Operating Base
- Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach – Ordnance Support Facility
- Presidio of Monterey – Defense Language Institute Headquarters
- Travis Air Force Base – Major Airlift and Logistics Hub
