On October 4, 2025, the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego officially opened to the public, marking a historic expansion of the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida. This new West Coast location offers visitors a powerful and immersive experience into the legacy of one of America’s most elite military units—right in the heart of a city deeply intertwined with SEAL history.
Two Cities, One Mission
The opening of the San Diego museum represents more than just a geographic expansion—it’s a symbolic bridge between two cities that have shaped the SEALs’ identity. Fort Pierce, the birthplace of the Navy’s Underwater Demolition Teams (UDT) during World War II, has long been home to the original museum. San Diego, meanwhile, is the operational and training hub for Naval Special Warfare, with Coronado serving as the site of Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training.
Together, these locations embody the museum’s guiding principle: One Museum, One Mission, Two Locations.
A Museum Like No Other
Located at 1001 Kettner Blvd. near the Embarcadero, the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego (NSMSD) offers a state-of-the-art experience designed to educate, inspire, and honor. Visitors can explore:
- Interactive exhibits that simulate SEAL missions and training environments
- Virtual reality experiences that bring the SEAL ethos to life
- Retired SEAL docents who share firsthand stories of courage, sacrifice, and service
- The Navy SEAL Memorial, a solemn tribute to fallen warriors and their families
The museum also features community engagement programs that promote values such as leadership, perseverance, and service above self.
Why San Diego?
San Diego’s selection as the second museum site is no coincidence. The city’s deep military roots, proximity to Naval Special Warfare Command, and vibrant veteran community make it an ideal location to showcase the SEALs’ enduring legacy. Many retired SEALs and their families call San Diego home, further enriching the museum’s connection to the community.
A Living Tribute
Beyond its exhibits, the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego serves as a living tribute to the men and women who have served in Naval Special Warfare. It’s a place where history meets heroism, where visitors of all ages can gain insight into the discipline, resilience, and sacrifice that define the SEALs.
Whether you’re a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of special operations, the museum offers a rare glimpse into the heart of the SEAL brotherhood.
