Point Loma is the green, established peninsula that wraps the west side of San Diego Bay — home to Naval Base Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument at its tip, and some of the best harbor-and-ocean views in the city. Next door, Ocean Beach ("OB") is the laid-back, bohemian beach town with the pier, the dog beach, and an eclectic main street. Together they're the coastal, central option — and you pay for the location.
For a sailor at NB Point Loma, this is the live-where-you-work neighborhood. For families at the 32nd Street base, it's a pleasant but pricier-and-farther choice than the South Bay.
Where it fits in the commute
If you're at NB Point Loma, the commute is short. To Naval Base San Diego, you're crossing the city (I-5 / SR-209) — doable but not the shortest option (that's the South Bay). The airport sits right at the base of the peninsula, which is a plus for a sea-duty schedule with travel.
Neighborhoods
- Ocean Beach (OB) — The bohemian beach town: the pier, dog beach, surf, and a quirky, walkable Newport Avenue. Older cottages and apartments; a real beach-town vibe, not a polished one.
- Liberty Station — The former Naval Training Center turned mixed-use district — shops, dining, the arts district, parks, and newer housing. Walkable, family-friendly, and right by NB Point Loma.
- Sunset Cliffs — The clifftop residential strip on the ocean side of the peninsula — dramatic sunsets, walking paths, and some of the priciest addresses in the area.
What to verify before you sign
- Rent vs. space — Point Loma/OB costs more for less square footage than the South Bay; make sure the location premium is worth it for your situation. The BAH Budget tool helps.
- The specific school (San Diego Unified — Point Loma High feeder) at GreatSchools.
- Parking + age of the building in OB — a lot of the charming stock is older with tight parking.