At AHRN.com, we want to offer our readers a place to turn to when facing the challenge of a PCS. You know how it is when you get orders. You go to your Facebook friends list, find someone who is there or has been recently and get all the details! We are sharing the little things that help you to make a home at MCB Camp Pendleton!
What are the best neighborhoods?
The best place to live is going to depend on where you (or your service member) works! Due to it’s size,commuting across Camp Pendleton’s base can make it a long one! Cost of living is higher in California compared to many installations but there are family friendly, affordable options available. Fallbrook is more convenient for the Naval Weapons side of the base. Temecula is also popular with Marine Corps families and is considered an affordable option. Oceanside is another popular, although more pricey, option and is conveniently located to shopping and restaurants.
What schools are considered the best?
Camp Pendleton schools belong to the Oceanside Unified district which features North Terrace Elementary School as a well ranked school. Temecula fairs better on school rankings with several schools enjoying ratings of 8 or better (out of 10). Abby Reinke, Crowne Hill, Great Oak, Rancho and Red Hawk Elementary Schools are all rated 9/10. Check out the ratings on GreatSchools.org for any homes you are looking at.
Is there anywhere traffic is especially bad?
Southern California is notorious for traffic and the Camp Pendleton area is no exception. Keep in mind that the base itself is the size of many counties!
Can I get off post for lunch?
Where do you like to do your grocery shopping? Where is the best produce? The best prices?
Take the time to search out your local farmer’s market. The commissary is always an option but there are plenty of neighborhood alternatives for those who live off base.
What are your favorite local restaurants?
Delight the Foodie in your family with a trip to the Slow Food gastropub named The Flying Pig. Have a taste from the ocean and enjoy the view at Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill.
Where do you like to do your clothes/home shopping?
The Town Center is the largest shopping and dining center in the area, with an open mall concept. Retailers run the gamut from Louis Vuitton, Ann Taylor, Apple and Brooks Brothers to Old Navy, Payless and Target. The landscaping, lighting and outdoor music make for a lovely environment to stroll from shop to shop.
Best spot for a date night?
The Pier at Oceanside makes a fabulous evening walk and an easy date night! The winery is a wonderful option, also.
What do you LOVE about your duty station?
What else would you tell your friend who has just received orders?
We Want To Know:
Have you lived at MCB Camp Pendleton? What would you add to these questions?
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