I feel overwhelmed and very Humble for the Marine Corps Women & Men & the award's they graciously presented to me over this weekend. I feel that they deserve an award and appreciation for all that they endure to provide all with our many Freedoms we live daily ! This just makes me want to do more for our Service Women and Men & I attend to do just that ! I had the honor to be shown around on a very private tour where there was some brief discretions that I really enjoyed. The respect factor was really appreciated. All I have to say is Thank You for all your hard work & Service for those enlisted and to all of our veterans, from all different branches God bless you and please be safe out there. read more

Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton - Dress by Dolce and Gabbana, handbag by Hermes , shoes by Louis Vuitton - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Camp Pendleton, California

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Camp Pendleton, hands down best military base there is. It's huge! And the base is gorgeous. Can't beat being right on the coast in Southern California with Camp Pendleton. Check out the old Adobe Ranch houses, there is one next to the Air Station and another down Stuart Mesa Rd. A hidden treasure among Camp Pendleton. Huge blessing to be stationed here! read more

Big base, long lines to get in, but other than that there really isn't much too it. As one of the most well-know marine bases, there was a lot of hype coming through the gate. The MCX I guess they call it didn't have much in the way of food options (DD, a yogurt shop), and it wasn't terribly big given the size of the base. We also stopped at the commissary to pick up a few things read more

Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton - The line getting in - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Camp Pendleton, California

Unclean water, lots of people yelling, I got yelled at for not wearing my hat outside. No hot water. Coyotes everywhere. Black mold on the walls. It wasn't very Feng Shui. 1/5 for my girls at the purple church. read more

We moved to Camp Pendleton when my youngest son was only 8 months old. I remember crying when they told me we would be living in housing that was stacked on top of all of our neighbors, and the housing lady took pity on my aversion to crowded living conditions...we ended up in a house with no back neighbors that overlooked the entire Pacific Ocean. My son told me I needed to cry more often, and it was a running joke for pretty much the entire time we lived there. The sunsets were some of the most breathtaking I'd ever seen, other than the ones in the desert of 29 Palms...but it was apples and oranges...we did our 8 years there and got a reprieve with an ocean view. :) My youngest was diagnosed autistic shortly after we moved there, so it feels like my life aboard Camp Pendleton was one of continuous advocacy, and reading...and more advocacy. I served for a year on the Commanding General's advisory committee for families enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program, and was happy to do my part to help make lives of my friends and extended family aboard Camp Pendleton a little easier. I volunteered at EFMP events, and when I joined the Board of Directors for the Autism Society San Diego, I worked as a liaison between Camp Pendleton and the nonprofit. I was glad when the advisory committee embraced the idea of sensory friendly films at the base theater. I explained how easy they were to set up (just cut out the previews and other preludes, turn the lights up a bit and the sound down...let people bring in foods for those who may be allergic/aversive to the foodstuffs offered at concessions, and allow people to roam about freely while the movie plays...so that families could finally go to a movie with their loved ones and engage in that activity...something many had never been able to do before). we have been gone almost a decade now, and they're still going quarterly...a little piece of myself and what I love left behind for as long as it endures...which I hope is a long time to come! It wasn't just autistic individuals who were digging the movies either. Parents of small toddlers who wouldn't sit through an entire movie were finally able to bring their little ones and help them prep for later full-movie enjoyment. People with sensory sensitivities, aversions to loud noises, fear of the dark...and fidgety types like me who would have loved to march in place during the Hymn and Anchors Aweigh if it weren't frowned upon to move about while you're supposed to be at attention. We were all able to have a little piece of happiness in a place where no matter what happened, people were accepting and there wasn't any judgment. Camp Pendleton was where I began learning about how to use my own knowledge and voice to help others, and though I'd already been volunteering for years, it gave me a platform to hone those advocacy skills...and I came out of there a better person because of it. Pendleton is where I found my voice, and never stopped learning...so that I wouldn't grow complacent in my work to make the world a better place for my autistic friends, family, and the disabled community as a whole. I made friends...some who are no longer with us because, much like it was in the Stumps; sometimes, it's not easy making that comeback from Hell. You lose a lot of good people...which is a trade off that threatens to tear you in two if you don't put it in check. But I also made a family...and no matter where I go, I can have friendly conversation with any Devil Dog, Devil Dolphin, or their spouse, because we share something meaningful and permanent. It's a life wholly unlike anything you'll ever experience in the civilian world, and it's pretty freaking awesome. Most of the time. I was married to a Marine, and she was a demanding mistress sometimes. Sharing your partner with your country isn't always easy...but I wouldn't change those years for anything, because they've made everyone under this roof resilient, grateful for what we have, and very well aware of what we could have lost. I might not always agree with my government, but I have nothing but the utmost admiration and respect for the people who ensure that I have the right to disagree. We live in a country where we have the luxury to complain and protest, and I try to never lose sight of that. Semper Fidelis....Semper Fi. :) read more

Whump Whump Whump... "The sound of gunfire, off in the distance, I'm getting used to it now..."(http://www.lyricsfreak.com/t/talking+heads/life+during+wartime_10228666.html) Ah, the boys were at it again, blasting the hills with artillery and rocket fire. I imagine there are some vets who cringe with the memories of combat whenever they hear these sounds, involuntarily duck when they feel the percussion echoing off canyon walls. Though my experience under the gun was limited and realizing that these are the sounds of freedom, a price paid to surf this great break that happens to be on an active and very busy Marine Corps base, I'm happy that about all I do is pee in my wetsuit...just a little. The waves are worth it. It's hard to describe the affect of incoming or out-going artillery but it'll scare the crap out of the hardest and bravest. Now and then, a pair of deadly-looking Sea Cobras will scream overhead and bank into a hard-right turn into the hills. If you can pay the price, then welcome to Camp Pendleton, USMC. read more

Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton - "Gunner" points the way - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Camp Pendleton, California

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I've been to a few military bases including Coronado and Travis AFB. Pendleton is a really great one and it's huge. My cousin was based here back in 2005 and I also have an older cousin who was born here back in the 70s. So I do have a little bit of family history here. I didn't get a chance to visit Pendleton until last week for a wedding. According to my cousin there's a beach on base, I didn't get to see it this time around but hopefully I can get to visit again. They have a commissary and also a Dunkin Donuts. I remember before they started opening DDs around SD the only existing one in California at the time was at Pendleton. As I mentioned in my review for the Pacific Lodge, if you have an event on base have your guests pre-fill out forms to make check-in at the gate a breeze. Cute and sweet Marines walking all around base and throughout Oceanside. I love me a man in uniform LOL Men: I am single! read more

Bad housing they made me sleep on the ground no running water dinner was sometimes good most of the time made me constipated. I had to stay awake all night to make sure my stuff wasn't stolen. No one showers here. Would not stay again. 10/10 would not recommend. read more

Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton - Trash Broken Humvee Crippling depression - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Camp Pendleton, California

This review is for the Camp Pendleton Buffalo Alley Run that took place on 10/15/11. Appearance: like any military base, the facilities are always well maintained and organized. As for the event itself, I must say the 5k course was awesome!! The hill or should I say mountain on the first mile had a ridiculous incline!! The downhill slope at the beginning of the second mile was very steep but fairly manageable and the 10k'ers trailed right behind us 5k'ers!! This civilian was impressed!! I'm pretty sure the course is nothing compared to the Marine's actual training though but I'm glad I participated to benefit our fallen and wounded soldiers. May God Bless you men and women who fight for our freedom and protect our country! "Only two defining forces ever offered to die for you. Jesus Christ and the American soldier. One died for your soul the other died for your freedom...." read more

A friend of mine works here. If that's what you want to call it. Sure he's a marine, but he's also one heck of a nice guy. Which leads me to, the level of professionalism here. I've always been treated very nicely and respectfully. What's not to like about those who defend our freedom. read more

I've been to this base millions of time throughout my life. It has absolutely everything you need and more. My first visit was in the early 90s when I would visit my older cousin and his family living on base housing. The next visit was for Combat Training as I had sought to emulate my older cousin. Later on in the coming years, I found myself permanently stationed on Camp Pendleton and living in barracks rooms across the entire 22 Area. After exiting the military and leaving to go to college, I found myself right back on base working as a civilian contractor. This place will always have a special place in my heart because of all the years spent working on it. Oorah and Semper Fi! RS Padua (SGT/USMC, 2002-2007) read more

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One of the most sought after duty stations in the Marine Corps! The base offers a great deal of nearly everything for any and all. Its proximity to all the incredible local attractions should also not go without mention. Home to training ranges, shopping, living areas, and an assortment of entertainment options, you can really stay on base for weeks and have something to do all the time. The beaches on Camp Delmar allow alcohol!!! A rare find out here in SoCal with its miles and miles of dry beaches. There is a new paintball park, Exchange, a mini West Coast Customs, and a new Hospital is nearly complete, home of the ONLY Dunkin Donuts on the west coast. Naming everything would take far too much space on here. If you ever plan on visiting just remember...this is a Military Installation above all else. That cigarette but you flick out of your window and forget is not acceptable behavior here. 10 over will likely land you a ticket and those hand and arm signals people seem to love on the highway will land you a one way trip off base. Its a great place to work, live, and play! I have loved my time here and consider myself very lucky. Enjoy!! read more

Hey, if it let me review Navy Warfare Station China Lake (officially listed by Yelp - not added by myself) I figured I might as well put a review for our hometown favorite. Camp Pendleton is big. Sprawling. And full of eye candy. But I digress. I've been on base several times now and I am amazed at how sprawled out everything is there. The Main exchange and Marine Corps Times bookstore are not bad. There is even a little souvenier/memorabilia shop near the main exchange. The burger king near SOI was mediocre. Pendleton has its own recreational beach access and mobile camper home park. I was on the base due to having friends serving there and also attending classes offered there by Palomar College. The people at the Pass and Decal office can be gruff but keep a stiff upper lip and you will survive. (Needed the pass for the weekly class.) The people at the Educational Office were fairly knowledgeable and friendly. Classes were held in interesting places - old interesting and drafty places - but an excellent teacher and students that motivated me ;) helped me greatly. One of my classes was in a YMCA library (SOI/Camp Horno) classroom and the other in an assembly room used for deploying troops to Iraq (Santa Margarita Area). I assume it was used for deployment as there were lessons in some foreign Arabic language on the whiteboard. Camp Horno is also commonly known as Camp Porno - there were rumors of a porn shoot there a few years ago. At least it makes for good local rumors. For a military junkie like me it was nice to finally set foot on the mother load of all USMC bases. Obey the speed limits. I pulled out of the way so a MP could pass me by and he actually thought I was a terrorist and pulled me over. A unique experience. The area outside the North Gate is bad (N River Road in Oceanside-tons of gang shootings) but should be OK for access in the daytime. Civilians will probably need to use the main gate at Harbor Drive off Interstate 5. I'm glad I got the experience to go on board. A dream come true for a Marine Corps junkie like myself. read more

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My friend needed R & R after a tough time dealing with doctors, nurses and CPs, so we went to her church(Trestles). We got access with out any problems, eventhough her permit needed to be renew. Once we parked, she was observing the sequence of the waves to see if it could be worthy get into a very tight wet suit. After a couple of minutes she started to unload her turbo tunnel surfboard and got into her wetsuit. I don't know how to surf and the oceans' water is too cold for me, so I grabbed a beach chair and I sat facing the ocean waiting to see my friend catching a wave. That part of the ocean was so clean and its smell reminded me my beautiful Cuba. Finally I saw my friend paddling, she stood on her turbo tunnel surfboard so fast, and for me she was like dancing with the wave. I liked her style. That was the first time that I have seen her demonstrating she is a master with the surfboard. read more

Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton - Turbo Tunnel surfboard - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Camp Pendleton, California

Not a bad location for airfield operations. Parking can be limited along with gate access but overall not bad. People are friendly and courteous and every morning around 0800, they always play our American colors which brings great joy and happiness to my morning. If you have the right access, swing by and hear the great sound of freedom fly by read more

Sweet LAWD!!!! The things I will do for family... so i find myself helping my brother move to SD... in the middle of the night with a 16 foot truck filled to the rafters... running on nothing but rockstar and hopes and dreams of good times... and lets not talk about how the truck got filled in the first place... did I mention the heavy downpour the whole time? *shudder By day break, a few pee pee breaks, and a whole lot of bitchin' do I find myself at the gate of this place. I have to admit... it's a big base.... it took nearly half an hour to get from one side of the base to the other because there's 25mph zones everywhere. Lots of hills, everyone in uniform, and a lot of military hardware. Long story short we unloaded, and loaded that truck too many f'n times into a larger storage space. "Hey, I though I was helping you ass move into a house?' -Yeah, about that.... i'm on a waiting list till i get back... "Aren't you getting back in August?" -Right... so I'll be seeing you in August to help me move into the house... "o_O......." I was there for almost two days and I still don't think I saw it all. Oddly, gazing into the horizon from any given location there can be found a peaceful serenity... between gun shots that is (there are a lot of gun ranges everywhere). On top of which, there's not much to see unless you want to hike it all - in which case one would take a lot more time than I was willing to devote to the place. I had bars, people, and food to touch base with in the gas lamp. =) read more

I have been to Camp Pendleton a number of times through the years. I have seen both good and bad as you find with any military installation. When I was a boy scout as a kid, we would come here to go camping and do some wilderness trips. Some of the most epic games of Capture the flag occurred in the hills of Camp Pendleton back then. Absolutely awesome times. Then recently a close friend of mine retired from the Corp. So I was able to go back specifically for his retirement celebration at Camp 33. Well, some of the base still looks like 1952 and some of the base was fairly modern and well put together. It didn't help that the guys at the gate when I entered didn't have a clue as to where I needed to go and told me the wrong place. *SMH* grumbles... PRO TIP: If you are going on base and are not familiar with it, the guard won't provide a map, stop at a gas station as they do know exactly where you need to go in most cases on base. Overall the roads were in good condition (translation 10,000 times better than LA county but not as nice as Orange County). Many of the older buildings needed a fresh coat of paint or to be replaced and the new buildings looked absolutely awesome. The case is divided into multiple camps with each one having some special stuff I think. Overall it was an enjoyable sojourn into the heart of the Corp's Pacific Coast Presence. HoooooAhhhhhh! Congratulations on your retirement Gunnery Sergent Sinclair! read more

Ummm. You can get naked here. And I'm down with that. Naked = good. And plenty. If there's anything nicer? I don't know about it. You can walk around with it all hanging out. And watch women playing naked volleyball. It just doesn't get better than that. Bouncy! Mona loves naked. read more

OOH-RAH! The few. The Proud. The MARINES! read more

The other reviews for MCB Camp Pendleton seem to be thanks yous and not actual reviews. I'm going to offer an review of the base. The base itself is over 125,000 acres and although it is a marine corps base all branches of the military are represented here. Camp Pendleton also houses the last major undeveloped portion of coastline in California. Because of the vastness of the base there are several different areas and numerous different camps. Sometimes it's quite a trek to get from one side of the base to another, but overall this is a great place to be if you are a military member stationed here or a family member. Everything seems to be readily available and there are convenience marts near all housing areas. The commissary is a bit small for the population at Camp Pendleton and is consistently running out of items that are considered high-volume/in-demand. Their "health food" section is very small compared to other smaller commissarys such as Miramar and North Island. I won't compare it to the world's largest commissary located at 32nd Street. The clothing and shoes at the Exchange seems to be a little dated and not comparable to Miramar or MCRD San Diego. The South Mesa Clube, "staff club," is great. It's in a great location near the main gate, has ample parking, a great staff and always has a varitey of events planned each week. The Double Deuce, "all hands club," is just as good as the staff club. There is always something to do and there is a Taco Bell there. Del Mar Beach just rocks! They have cabins right on the beach that can be reserved in advanced that are great for groups and families. There are several events on this beach through out the year such as the Independence Day Beach Party and Festival. There is also a small exchange and subway here. Camp Pendleton Memorial Golf Course has everything a golfer needs. It has a really great club house with a restaurant and full bar, a pro shop, a practice range to nail down your short game and driving. We took lessons here last year from jake and he really helped us hone our skills. Although I cannot give a first hand review of the Paintball course I have heard many many good things about it and know several people that frequent this course and enjoy it. If it helps any they said it was much better than the "make-shift" course at miramar. Overall, I'm thankful that we are stationed aboard MCB Camp Pendleton and we cross our fingers that we don't leave for a long long time. read more

Thank you marines, soldiers, servicemen for defending us against those who wish to destroy us. I'm mighty proud to live so near a US Marine Corps base. Off the 5 freeway, Camp Joseph Pendleton is 125k acres of fanny kicking testosterone and headquarters to roughly 100k servicemen and women. Here our troops learn the finer arts of combat and weaponry. I had the privilege of meeting a few of our brave warriors on the shores of Del Mar, many of whom were 20-25 and wore a distinct look of prestige in their eyes. General Mills came by and shook our hands, assuring me that America's future is secure because of the sacrifice of patriots like he and his men. I was in my 20s when a gang of psychotic maniac terrorists crashed loaded airplanes into the Twin Towers of New York killing 3,000 of my countrymen. The Flight 93 homicide mission, aimed at D.C. and the seat of government, was derailed by American heroes like Tom Burnett, Jeremy Glick, and Todd Beamer. They decided to go out with a fight. President Bush continued that fight and kept us safe for another 7 years. President Obama continues that struggle in Afghanistan today and I applaud him for that. America is the land of liberty and we shall remain that way as long as we're willing to defend ourselves against evil men. http://www.pendleton.usmc.mil/cpao/pages/history.asp read more

Camp Pendleton is huge and because of that it can take about 20minutes to get to the other side. If you live on base there's really no reason to leave because they have just about everything you need right on base. They have Del Mar beach, tons of gyms, a movie theater, McDonald's, a nice size lake and so much more. I was kind of surprised to see Cam Pendleton is on Yelp but I should of known better. Oh they also have horse stables and a paintball park. Also depending on where you're at you have to watch out for rattlesnakes they even have a street named Rattle Snake Canyon Rd. I like Camp Pendleton and sometimes wish I was living there again. read more

I am a Hospital Corpsman and this has been my duty station for my whole career. I've been to a few other bases for training, but none have them have been as big as this big boy. There's a little bit of everything on this base and a lot of the resources here have been very beneficial to my career. To any Corpsmen out there debating whether this is a duty station that they want to go to, I would say "yes"! Just anticipate some arduous days working with the Marines. If you play your cards right, however, you might make some good friends that have much trust and respect in the things that you do. I live in Irvine and it is a bit of a pain to commute to work day to day. I've worked on every end of the base and getting from one place to another can be a pain. From North end to South could take you a good 45 minutes. Luckily, there are commissaries, px's, tailors, restaurants, etc. everywhere you go. If you are trying to get Basic Housing Allowance and you're single, it's going to be a little hard on this base. The Marine Corps spent billions of dollars building new barracks all over base and they are trying to limit how much BAH they actually give out. I'm an E-5, about to put on E-6 and they still tried to get me to move into the barracks. Lucky for me I own a house and they won't completely screw you over! All in all, this is has been a great duty station to me. I hope that any Marines and Sailors that call this duty station their home takes advanatage of everything that's available to them here. read more

Wow a review for base cool. Ok I gave base 3 stars mainly because they totally forgot about the North end of base. To commissary in San O. is dismal. The only good this is we have a pass and I.D. and a Sonic there. This PX in Mateo is small and only housing junk food. I would like to see it maybe double in size and have a larger selection of electronics, clothing, and out door equipment. Kinda of like a mini px like the on in San O. I think that the prices for most of the Rec check out equipment is fantastic, some of them however should be looked at however! Simple business, you're not making any money having your stuff just sit there. If you make it cheaper Ill rent it and you make some money. I would like to see a really cool HOT nightclub on base and open for civilians. I also think a good bar on base would be interesting to see as well. Why cant we take the kayaks out of the harbor at DelMar? Why are pitbulls banned? They have one of the highest temperament rating. Labs and German Sheppard's have a lower temperament rating fair is fair why dont you ban them, statistically they are more likely to bite someone than a pit is. Please make a highway from the 5 straight through base to fall brook with a hand full of exits. Im tired of my marines going to main side for a 5 min appt. and they spend 1.5 hrs of it driving. We have better stuff to be doing. I like the prices at the px! Why isnt our gas tax free though? As well as I find better gas princes in town usually WFT? All in all though great base and Ill be sad to leave! Wait Ill give you 4 stars, you've been good to me :) read more

This is one of the biggest Marine Corps bases out there. There are several gyms, medical and dental facilities, base exchanges, commissaries here in Camp Pendleton. There are facilities here where you can get really cheap movie and theme park tickets and passes. There's plenty of restaurants with the majority of them located at the south end near Oceanside. There are a lot of trails for running or biking at the base. I found a lot of rattle snakes on my random hikes here. These guys host a lot of races too including the famous mud runs. There's also a secluded beach at San Onofre where you can go camping or just go for a swim and go paddle boarding. You do need to make reservations to reserve your camp site many months in advance. This is my go to place to get groceries. read more

Been here for nearly 10 years and absolutely love it here. Have worked at other bases but something about this one, my wife and i love so much, this is definitely my home base. It's like its, its own city. It had everything i need to do add if i were out in town. It even had is own private beach where my wife and i sometimes rent out a bungalow at the Del Mar Beach on the west side of base, its literally less than 8 miles to my home in fallbrook, we love going to Lake O'Neal and having picnics and enjoy going to the movie theater and bowling ally...like i said it has everything we need! Also, nothing like the feeling of seeing all of the cool aircrafts that come through (I'm 1 of 3 guys that paint the helicopters here) here. I actually love hearing the boom booming of the canons, missiles, gun ranges going off...the sound of freedom. read more

If your an outdoor enthusiast or love to workout outdoors, can't beat Pendleton! Miles and miles of off road/trails for running/mtn biking/hiking (that's obviously safe from training exercises). Great base for outdoors. It's like a refuge from S. California congestion. The way S. Cal was before the congestion. For runners: recommend Lake Oneil by the Hospital-great for running. They also have a camp ground there as well. read more

Visitor center for base pass is under staffed . Have waited in parking lot 3 hours waiting to begin pass application process.

A large base with many gyms, beach access points and MOUT facilities. Though, not nearly as large as 29 Palms and not as many opportunities for live fire field exercises. For families, they'll likely be disappointed with the PXs. They're not as good as what you'll find at Miramar, MCRD San Diego, or Quantico. But, I understand the base is building a new PX and other stores to be opened within the next year. Overall a very attractive base stretching along the Southern California shoreline over grass and hills, with many trails and paths for running, biking, and hiking. read more

If you are contemplating living on base, I live in Del Mar: Pro's: -Harbor gate access from 0600-1800 -Commissary is close -Small PX/Barber Shop/Gas/Pizza/Subway right down the road. -Great running routes around area -Beach only 5 minutes away Con's: -As far away from Mainside as it gets -Morning traffic turning North on Vandergrift from A Street is slow. But for what it's worth, I wouldn't trade it. Living on base is so nice. Even with traffic and Mainside issues, everything is accessible within 30 minutes. read more

Oorahh!! Hello marines! Go Navy! I would drive by Camp Pendleton all the time on my way home from Naval Station 32nd Street and on my way back to base always in the early morning I was very familiar with the I-5 north and south to and from San Diego. I can't say I hated , but back then I probably did? Now that I'm older and think about it ? I actually do miss those drives. read more

As an Army guy and having been stationed all around the world, I can honestly say that this is one of the best military bases that I've seen (very jealous). I helped out recently with the Wound Warrior games and I couldn't have been more honored to work with such great folks and amazing athletes. For all of the Marines and their families who have been able to call Pendleton home, you have a gorgeous base and you do an amazing job. Thank you for doing what you do. read more

Nothing beats a 0530 run in silkies on a cold freezing morning! What can I say this place has changed so much since the last 2 wars. The weather is always different here, it is nice and breezy outside the gates, the minute you come into pendleton -ITS a whole new world. the weather and temperture changes..extremely hot and humid or cold and freezing. The hills! ahh the hills. read more

On this, my 100th review, I found it very fitting that I wanted to write a review on this place. I was here this entire weekend for a paintball tournament held on Del Mar Beach, located about a mile from the main entrance. With it being Veteran's Day, I just thought it'd be neat to give all those veterans (past, present, and future) a shout out on our special day. I can't really comment on any other base services, but the Marines we ran into at the gate and at the beach were awesome! My experience with front gate personnel has always been unpleasant because the person working there was usually a disgruntled soldier (or airman, in my case) who has the "I didn't sign up to do this shit!." syndrome. I thought the Marines would be total hard asses but that wasn't the case. They were friendly and easy to talk to. Overall, all of our encounters with on-base personnel were pretty pleasant. Our paintball tournament was held right on beach. I wish the bungalows on the beach were available to rent, but I guess they aren't for civilians or else the event promoters would've brought it up. There's a huge RV park where people can drive in and have a bonfire, with picnic tables and volleyball nets close by. We really didn't go into any buildings but they seemed pretty much up to par with other bases around the country. I hope that the tournament promoters can secure this location for an event next year. This has been one of the better venues this year and I hope the Marines will invite us back. Happy Veteran's Day! read more

Been here on and off for nine years. Hope I never leave.

I love hanging out on base and seeing the recruits after their training. The drive through the base is really cool - and long. Watch the speed limit signs because they change quite frequently and be ready to show your ID and vehicle insurance card when entering. It's hard to say you've been to the safest place on earth, but being here you feel like you have been! A massive shout-out to all those who have and are serving our country to keep us protected and to bring law and order to other areas of the world. You our true heroes! read more

Love this base! First step foot on it in 1988 at age 19. Best locations: Club Delmar (back in 1988) SOI E-Club (back in 1988) SOI Edson Range Mt. Mother F***** Camp Horno High Trail/Low Trail read more

Hello Marines :) I enjoy working on your base, and hope to contribute more by working to ensure you have proper living conditions, the right equipment to do your job, and to make sure y'all have a good time while here in the states. Thank you for what you do. On that note, I love this base! Everyone is very helpful and generous. I like that the speed limit goes up to 55...the base I'm normally from (Port Hueneme) you have a max speed of 35, granted MCBCP is 10xs the size of that base...but still! haha. Seems like everyone works and gets off at the same time, which increases drive time to and from work. read more

I have been visiting for a year now and recently registered in DEERS. Camp Pendleton has made this move so easy for my family. It is the most beautiful place I have lived. I feel privileged to be here. read more

Having come here from nearby MCAS Miramar, I was intimidated by the sheer size of Camp Pendleton. I was so used to having the commissary, base theater, gas stations, Pass/ID, restaurants and the MCX all within walking distance. So, while the base is very large, it doesn't take long to get acquainted with the commonly frequented spots. Some of the housing is newer than others. We were fortunate to live in a very large, new townhome. As with any place, whether it be on station or off, you are going to find you have good and bad neighbors. I thoroughly enjoyed Lake O'Neil, bowling alley and base theatre for cheap entertainment value. Great BBQ place opened up in the bowling alley parking lot in 13 Area. Base fitness centers should not be overlooked - they are as good if not better than the gyms you will find off base - even better, they're FREE! Drawback is NO CHILDCARE is available. New Hospital is going in on the I-5 (Main Gate) side of base. DelMar Beach Resort offers camping, cabana rentals and cottages. I didn't spend much time on the north end of base but San Onofre has a decent beach area as well, small commissary and tiny, older (and in desperate need of a remodel) MCX. The veterinary care on base was VERY inexpensive and offered top-notch care. Outside of base are a myriad of restaurants, a movie theatre, and access to commuter railway transportation. I especially loved walking on the Oceanside Pier at dusk/sunset. There are bootcamp style clubs that meet on various days (usually mornings) down at the Pier/Ampitheatre area. Pretty area with mild temperatures nearly year round. read more