MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. --  Thoughts of relaxing on a beach, listening to waves crash against the shoreline while misty wind blow against sunbathed-skin, usually does not coincide with time spent on military installation.  However, the camping ground of Camp Pendleton’s San Onofre Beach, located on the north side of base, offers such an atmosphere.

“When it comes to a vacationing spot, location takes top priority,” said Ray Moon, assistant camp manager, San Onofre Beach, Camp Pendleton. “This location is unique.”

The beach has approximately three miles of picturesque scenery with vacation cottages overlooking the shoreline. The facility allow tent setups along the water's edge, recreational vehicle parking, and cottages that are available for renting for all associated members of the military.

Because the beach is located on base property, it offers a safe environment for the whole family.

“My husband and I usually bring our five kids to the campground every year for a weeklong vacation,” said Marie Moisant, Marine spouse. “The family-friendly environment makes it easy for us to come back.”

The campsite has playgrounds available for young children, public restrooms approximately every quarter mile, and lifeguards on duty for most of the day.

The San Onofre grounds also offer one, two and three-bedroom cottages that overlook the ocean. The facilities have their own kitchens, bathrooms, televisions and barbeque grills.

“We try to accommodate all of our visitors’ needs,” said John Preston, camp manager, San Onofre Beach. “We even offer areas that can accommodate large groups.”

There are five group-camping sites on the property that can hold anywhere from 10 to 200 people.

For group reservations, call (760) 763-8368. Reservations for all other camping arrangements must be submitted 12 weeks in advance during winter months and 10 weeks in advance for summer months.

For general information about San Onofre’s Beach, call (760) 763-7263.