San Diego Naval Base Tours

San Diego has the largest Naval Base on the west coast and is home to the Pacific Fleet. San Diego's Naval Bases are closed to visitors most of the time, but there are other ways to get a look at the Navy in this port city. An excellent option is to take a harbor cruise that tours past the naval ships. A maritime museum is also available, as well as an aircraft carrier open to visiting.

The one time of year that there are Navy base tours is during Fleet Week San Diego. Events include a Navy Open House at Naval Air Station North Island, Ship Tours at Broadway Pier, Sea & Air Parade on the San Diego bayfront, and Miramar Air Show (September 24-26, 2021).

Throughout the year, Flagship Cruises Harbor Tours take you by boat to see the Naval Base, the Pacific Fleet, the Naval Air Station, and the Sub Base. You'll get a great view of the Navy ships and operations from the water.

Hornblower Cruises Harbor Tours also take you on the water to see all the sights, including the Naval Bases.

Adventure R.I.B. Rides Naval Heritage Tours are another way to see the bases from the water. Their boats are small for a personal and fast-moving tour experience.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego offers a San Diego's Navy exhibit. It depicts 100 years of the Navy here, and includes artifacts and models.

The USS Midway aircraft carrier is the most visited naval ship museum in the world. The Midway was the longest serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century and 225,000 sailors served our country on this huge ship. Your tour includes 29 restored aircraft, and two fun flight simulators for you to try. You'll see the carrier's crew quarters, big galley, engine room, machine shops, flight control, and the bridge. The USS Midway is located on the downtown San Diego waterfront.