About Naval Station Mayport
Naval Station Mayport, located in Jacksonville, Florida, is one of the largest naval bases on the East Coast.
It is home to a wide variety of ships, including frigates, cruisers, destroyers, and amphibious assault ships, as well as the USS Iwo Jima and other surface combatants.
Mayport is a strategic location supporting naval operations, maintenance, and training activities, while also hosting the U.S. Navy’s Fourth Fleet, which oversees U.S. naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South America.
In this Article
Naval Station Mayport Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Naval Station Mayport or planning a move to the Jacksonville area, our veterans guide provides all the details you need to make your transition smooth. From housing options on base to nearby neighborhoods like Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach, this guide covers everything from local attractions and military discounts to financial resources and educational opportunities for veterans stationed at Mayport.
Naval Station Mayport Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (904) 236-5000
- Housing Office: +1 (904) 236-5001
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (904) 236-5002
- Family Support Office: +1 (904) 236-5003
- Legal Office: +1 (904) 236-5004
Address: Naval Station Mayport, 2292 Mayport Road, Jacksonville, FL 32233, United States
Mission
Naval Station Mayport serves as a strategic homeport for the U.S. Navy’s fleet, hosting a variety of ships, aircraft, and personnel. It supports maritime readiness with advanced facilities, including a deep-water harbor and airfield. Mayport’s mission emphasizes operational support, training, and logistical capabilities.
History
- Established: December 1942
- Key Historical Facts:
- Originally developed as a naval air base during World War II.
- Transformed into a major Atlantic Fleet homeport in the 1950s.
- Played pivotal roles in Cold War operations and modern military strategies.
- Continues to adapt with modern ships and aircraft.
Location
- Address: Naval Station Mayport, Jacksonville, FL 32228
- Coordinates: 30.3908° N, 81.4000° W
- Website: Naval Station Mayport Official Website
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM; Closed weekends and holidays.
- Main Gate: Open 24/7.
Base Location and Directions
- Driving Directions:
- From Jacksonville International Airport: Take I-295 S to FL-10 E/Atlantic Blvd, and follow signs to Mayport Road/Mayport Naval Station (approx. 35 minutes).
- From Downtown Jacksonville: Head east on FL-10 E/Atlantic Blvd and follow signs to Mayport Road (approx. 25 minutes).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 14,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 5,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 20,000
- Total Population Served: Over 39,000
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Naval Station Mayport offers privatized on-base housing managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. Off-base housing is available in nearby Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville. Contact the Housing Office for more information at +1 (904) 236-5001.
- Off-base housing includes rental homes, townhomes, and properties for sale in Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville Beach.
- Current median home prices in Atlantic Beach: $470,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Naval Station Mayport is located near Florida State Road A1A and I-295, offering easy access to Jacksonville and the surrounding beaches. On-base shuttle services are available for personnel, but personal vehicles are recommended for off-base commuting.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical care is provided by Naval Branch Health Clinic Mayport, offering primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. Contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (904) 236-5002 for more information.
- Dining Facilities: On-base dining options include the Oasis Galley and several fast-food establishments. Off-base, Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville offer a wide variety of dining experiences, including seafood restaurants and local eateries.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Naval Station Mayport features several fitness centers offering cardio equipment, weights, group fitness classes, and sports facilities. Outdoor recreation opportunities include beaches, sports fields, and jogging trails.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools at Naval Station Mayport. Children of military personnel typically attend schools in the Duval County School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base have access to schools in Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville. Higher education opportunities are available at Florida State College at Jacksonville and University of North Florida.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Naval Station Mayport operates a Child Development Center, offering daycare services, preschool programs, and after-school care for military families. Contact the CDC for more information on enrollment.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Naval Station Mayport is situated near the beautiful beaches of Jacksonville, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming, surfing, boating, and fishing. The base also features parks and outdoor sports fields for recreation.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a commissary and Navy Exchange for shopping needs. Off-base, Atlantic Beach and Jacksonville offer a variety of shopping centers, including St. Johns Town Center and River City Marketplace.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local veterans organizations, including VFW and American Legion posts in Jacksonville and surrounding areas, provide support and services for military personnel and veterans.
- Family Support Office: Offers deployment support, financial counseling, family advocacy services, and more. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (904) 236-5003.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (904) 236-5004 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Established in 1942, Naval Station Mayport is one of the largest naval bases in the U.S. It is home to the Fourth Fleet and serves as a major naval surface ship and helicopter center. The base plays a key role in the Navy’s Atlantic operations and provides critical support to the fleet.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can civilians access Naval Station Mayport? | Civilians can access the base for specific events or with prior authorization. Visitors must pass a security screening and have a valid purpose. |
| What types of ships are stationed at Mayport? | Mayport is home to guided-missile destroyers, cruisers, and the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima. It also hosts the Navy’s littoral combat ships. |
| Is there an on-base commissary? | Yes, Naval Station Mayport has a commissary offering groceries and household goods at competitive prices. |
| Are there recreational activities on base? | Yes, the base offers beaches, fitness centers, golf courses, marinas, and more. |
| What housing options are available at Mayport? | On-base housing is available through Mayport Family Housing, offering various home types. Off-base housing is plentiful in nearby neighborhoods like Neptune Beach and Arlington. |
| Can veterans use medical facilities on base? | Veterans with specific eligibility may access limited medical services. Nearby VA hospitals in Jacksonville provide comprehensive care. |
| How do I access the base for a PCS move? | Present your military ID and orders at the main gate. Sponsors can assist with navigating base resources during the transition. |
| Are there educational options for military families? | Yes, the base has on-site schools for younger children. Families can also access Duval County Public Schools in the surrounding area. |
| What is the nearest airport to Naval Station Mayport? | Jacksonville International Airport is approximately 35 minutes away by car. |
| Does Naval Station Mayport have child care services? | Yes, the base offers child development centers and programs for various age groups. |
