About Oceana NAS
Naval Air Station Oceana, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, serves as the Navy’s East Coast Master Jet Base. It is home to F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet squadrons that support air combat operations and training. As one of the Navy’s largest air stations, NAS Oceana plays a critical role in pilot training and readiness, with its extensive runways and facilities designed for carrier-based aircraft. The base is an integral part of the Navy’s air power, contributing to national security and defense operations globally.
In this Article
Oceana NAS Local Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Oceana NAS or planning a move here, our comprehensive guide has everything you need. From housing options both on and off base, to the best things to do in the area, financial resources, and local businesses offering military discounts, this guide is your one-stop resource for everything.
Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (757) 433-2366
- Housing Office: +1 (757) 433-2190
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (757) 433-3471
- Family Support Office: +1 (757) 433-2912
- Legal Office: +1 (757) 433-2230
- Address: 1750 Tomcat Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23460, United States
Mission
Naval Air Station Oceana is the Navy’s East Coast Master Jet Base, supporting the deployment and training of F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet squadrons. It provides critical infrastructure for naval aviation operations, ensuring readiness and combat capability for global deployments. Additionally, the base offers advanced training for pilots and maintains vital logistics support for air operations.
History
- Established: 1943 during World War II as a naval auxiliary airfield.
- Became a Master Jet Base in the 1950s to support advanced jet operations.
- Played a significant role in the Cold War, Desert Storm, and ongoing global missions.
Key milestones include:
- Hosting the first operational F/A-18 squadrons in the 1980s.
- Continuous upgrades to facilities and airfields for modern aviation demands.
- Supporting humanitarian and disaster relief missions worldwide.
Location
- Address: 1750 Tomcat Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23460
- Coordinates: 36.8202° N, 76.0325° W
- Website: Naval Air Station Oceana Official Website
Hours of Operation
- Visitor Center: Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–4:00 PM; Closed on weekends and holidays
- Main Gate: Open 24/7
Base Location and Directions
- Driving Directions:
- From Norfolk International Airport: Take I-64 E, merge onto I-264 E, and follow signs to NAS Oceana (approx. 30 minutes).
- From Downtown Virginia Beach: Head west on I-264 W and exit onto First Colonial Rd to Oceana (approx. 15 minutes).
- From Richmond, VA: Drive east on I-64 E, merge onto I-264 E, and follow signs to the base (approx. 2 hours).
Population
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 10,000
- Civilians and Contractors: Around 4,000
- Families and Dependents: Nearly 6,000
- Total Population Served: Over 20,000
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Naval Air Station Oceana offers on-base housing managed by the U.S. Navy. Housing includes family homes and apartments designed to meet the needs of different military families. To apply, contact the Housing Office at +1 (757) 462-9221.
- Amenities and Services:
- Commissary and Exchange: NAS Oceana features a commissary and Navy Exchange for shopping and grocery needs. The commissary is located at 1300 Oceana Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23460, and is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Medical Facilities: The base is supported by the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, which provides comprehensive medical services. Contact the center at +1 (757) 753-3700 for appointments.
- Recreational Facilities: The base offers several recreational options including a fitness center and swimming pool. The fitness center is located at 118 Tomcat Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23460, and operates Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on weekends from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Education
- On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools at NAS Oceana. Families can access local schools in the Virginia Beach City Public Schools district. For enrollment information, contact the school district at +1 (757) 574-4892.
- Off-Base Schools: Families residing off base can enroll their children in the Virginia Beach public school system.
Things to Do
- Outdoor Activities: The Virginia Beach area offers plenty of outdoor activities, including beach access, parks, and nature reserves. Popular locations include First Landing State Park and the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
- Shopping and Dining: The base is near several shopping and dining options, including the Lynnhaven Mall and various local restaurants along the boardwalk.
- Cultural Attractions: Explore nearby cultural attractions like the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, and the Military Aviation Museum.
Local Support and Resources
- Military and Family Support Center: The Family Support Center provides counseling, financial guidance, and deployment support. Call +1 (757) 574-4442 for more information.
- Legal Services: Legal assistance is available for wills, powers of attorney, and estate planning at the base legal office. Call +1 (757) 462-9333.
- Veteran Services: The VA Hampton Medical Center provides healthcare and benefits support to veterans near NAS Oceana. Visit the VA Hampton Medical Center for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is Naval Air Station Oceana’s mission? | The base supports the deployment and training of F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet squadrons for global naval operations. |
| What units are located at NAS Oceana? | Major units include Carrier Air Wings and the Fleet Replacement Squadrons for the F/A-18 aircraft. |
| Does NAS Oceana offer on-base housing? | Yes, family and unaccompanied housing are available, managed by privatized housing providers. |
| What medical services are offered on the base? | The base provides medical and dental services through its Naval Branch Health Clinic. |
| Are there schools near NAS Oceana? | Yes, Virginia Beach City Public Schools and private schools serve families stationed at the base. |
| Can civilians visit NAS Oceana? | Civilians can access the base during the annual air show or with prior approval for specific events. |
| What recreational facilities are available? | Facilities include fitness centers, swimming pools, a golf course, and beach access. |
| What is the history of NAS Oceana? | Established in 1943, it became a Master Jet Base in the 1950s, playing a key role in naval aviation. |
| What family support services are available? | Services include childcare, relocation assistance, and financial counseling. |
| How does NAS Oceana contribute to national defense? | The base ensures combat readiness and deployment capability for naval aviation forces. |
All Military Bases in Virginia
Army Bases
- Fort A.P. Hill – Advanced Training and Maneuver Center
- Fort Belvoir – Key U.S. Army Installation for Defense Agencies
- Fort Lee – Critical Logistics Training Hub
Navy Bases
- Naval Station Norfolk – Largest Naval Base Supporting Atlantic Fleet
- Naval Air Station Oceana – East Coast Master Jet Base
- Naval Weapons Station Yorktown – Ordnance Support and Training Facility
