Coast Guard Base Portsmouth

Olde Towne Portsmouth

One of the best-preserved historic districts in the South, with Federal, Georgian, and Victorian homes dating to the Colonial era. Close to the waterfront and just minutes from base, it appeals to history lovers willing to handle older home maintenance.

5–10 min to base

Suffolk (Harbour View)

A newer master-planned community in western Suffolk near the Nansemond River offering modern construction, community amenities, and good schools. Popular with families seeking new homes at a more manageable price point than Virginia Beach.

20–30 min to base via I-664

Chesapeake (Great Bridge)

The Great Bridge area of Chesapeake offers top-rated schools, large single-family homes, and a family-friendly suburban environment that remains popular with military families from all branches.

25–35 min to base

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

A comprehensive museum in Olde Towne chronicling Portsmouth's 300-year naval history with ship models, uniforms, artifacts, and the story of the Civil War ironclad CSS Virginia.

Virginia Beach Oceanfront

The Atlantic Ocean resort strip is about 30 minutes away via the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel, featuring miles of public beach, the 3-mile boardwalk, and dozens of restaurants and shops.

Bier Garden

Portsmouth's beloved craft beer bar and restaurant in Olde Towne with over 30 taps of local and regional beers, an extensive food menu, and a vibrant patio.

Nauticus (Norfolk)

A maritime museum and science center in downtown Norfolk anchored by the battleship USS Wisconsin (BB-64), offering interactive exhibits on naval history and ocean science.

Tanger Outlets (Hampton)

A major outlet mall in Hampton with over 100 name-brand stores at discount prices, conveniently accessible from Portsmouth via I-64.

Carrie B Harbor Tours

A replica 19th-century riverboat offering narrated harbor tours past naval shipyards, aircraft carriers, submarines, and historic sites on the Elizabeth River.