So You Wanna Be a BUD/S Groupie in San Diego? Donning Your Fan Gear and Infiltrating the Base (Not Literally)
Ah, the Navy SEALs. The mysterious warriors of the sea, land, and who-knows-where-else. Their training is legendary, their skills unmatched, and their ability to avoid tourists? Apparently, also top-notch. But fear not, fellow admirer, because while waltzing onto an active base for a selfie with a SEAL trainee is a recipe for disappointment (and possibly a stern talking-to from a very fit military police officer), there are ways to satisfy your inner BUD/S groupie in San Diego.
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| Can You Visit The Navy Seal Base In San Diego |
Public Tours: Not Exactly on the Agenda
Let's be honest, unless you're a veteran with a time machine set for your service days, getting a base tour is a dead end. Security is tight, and SEAL training ain't exactly a spectator sport (safety, secrecy, all that jazz). But don't despair! San Diego offers a treasure trove of military-themed adventures:
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
The Mighty Midway: Explore the decommissioned aircraft carrier USS Midway, now a museum packed with history and flight simulators. You practically become a Top Gun pilot yourself!
Museum Hopping: Dive into the fascinating world of military aviation at the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum, or brush up on Naval Special Warfare history at the (future) Navy SEAL Museum (because who wouldn't want to see what these guys used to train with?)
Beachside BUD/S Spotting: A Maybe
Here's the thing: rumours abound of catching SEALs in action during their early morning training runs on Coronado Beach. Think sunrise swims and obstacle course domination. While there's no guarantee (remember, these guys are sneaky!), it's worth a shot for the dedicated fan. Just be respectful, maintain a safe distance, and remember, they're training, not posing for pictures.
Tip: Share one insight from this post with a friend.
Embrace the Fleet Week Feels
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Every year, San Diego explodes with Fleet Week, a celebration of the Navy. While you still can't crash a training session, it's a fantastic opportunity to see ships, meet sailors (including some SEALs, perhaps?), and soak up the military atmosphere.
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
So, can you visit the Navy SEAL base in San Diego? Technically, no. But with a little planning and some stellar alternatives, your San Diego adventure can be just as action-packed as a SEAL mission (without the risk of getting tackled by a security guard).
How-To FAQs for the BUD/S Enthusiast
Tip: Avoid distractions — stay in the post.
How to learn more about the Navy SEALs?
The Navy SEAL Museum (still under construction, but hey, future plans!) and the Navy SEAL website (
How to (respectfully) try and spot SEALs training? Head to Coronado Beach early in the morning, but remember, it's not guaranteed.
How to experience San Diego's military heritage? The Midway Museum, Flying Leatherneck Museum, and Fleet Week are all fantastic options.
How to become a Navy SEAL? That's a whole different adventure, my friend. Check out the Navy SEAL website for details (it's tough, but hey, maybe you're SEAL material!).
How to avoid disappointment? Go with an open mind and enjoy the other military-themed activities San Diego has to offer. You might not get a base tour, but you'll have an unforgettable trip!
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