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U.S. Coast Guard Base Honolulu PCS Guide
Military Base History
220428-N-KB401-2013 JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM April 28, 2022 -- Rear Adm. Jeff Jablon, commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet speaks with Jack Shriver, president, Honolulu Navy League, via video teleconference in the historic Skipper’s Lounge at Lockwood Hall on Joint Base Pearl...
U.S. Coast Guard Base Honolulu was established to support Coast Guard operations in the Pacific. The base provides logistical, administrative, and operational support for vessels and personnel stationed in the region.
Its strategic location in Honolulu Harbor allowed the Coast Guard to maintain a critical presence in the Pacific. This was especially important as maritime activity increased during the early 20th century.
During World War II, the base played a vital role in supporting convoy escort missions, search and rescue operations, and port security. The base expanded significantly during this period to meet the surge in personnel and activity.
New piers, maintenance facilities, and housing were added to accommodate growth. Key units stationed at the base included cutters, patrol boats, and support detachments vital to Pacific operations.
Throughout the Cold War and beyond, Coast Guard Base Honolulu served as a hub for maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and environmental protection missions. The base also supported disaster response operations, such as hurricane relief and oil spill containment.
Over the decades, the base has adapted to new missions, including homeland security and counter-narcotics efforts. Its evolving role reflects the changing needs of the Coast Guard in the Pacific.
Today, Coast Guard Base Honolulu remains a central support installation for the Coast Guard's 14th District. It provides essential services to cutters, small boats, and aircraft operating across the vast Pacific region.
The base has retained its original name since establishment, with no significant official name changes recorded. It continues to play a vital role in ensuring maritime safety and security for Hawaii and the greater Pacific area.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Coast Guardsmen assigned to the maritime security cutter USCGC Midgett (WMSL 757) prepare the cutter for mooring on Coast Guard Base Honolulu April 1, 2025. While deployed in Oceania for 76 days, the Midgett crew partnered with maritime law enforcement agencies, strengthening global...
Major Units
U.S. Coast Guard Sector Honolulu
Sector Honolulu is responsible for command and control of Coast Guard operations throughout the Hawaiian Islands and surrounding Pacific waters, including search and rescue, law enforcement, and maritime safety.
USCGC Kimball (WMSL-756)
The USCGC Kimball is a National Security Cutter homeported in Honolulu, conducting long-range patrols, law enforcement, and defense readiness missions across the Pacific.
USCGC Joseph Gerczak (WPC-1126)
This Fast Response Cutter supports coastal security, search and rescue, and maritime law enforcement missions in the Hawaiian Islands and surrounding Pacific region.
Training Schools
Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) Training
Overview
Provides specialized instruction in maritime law enforcement tactics, boarding procedures, and counter-narcotics operations for Coast Guard personnel.
Course Length
2-4 weeks
Who Attends
Coast Guard law enforcement personnel and boarding team members
Arrival & In-Processing
Fireman Myron Gates of the 14th Coast Guard District gives a Christmas present to a child at Kuhio Elementary School in Honolulu, Dec. 19, 2014. Crew members from Oahu-based Coast Guard units delivered Christmas presents to 300 children at a downtown Honolulu school that draws from an...
Welcome to U.S. Coast Guard Base Honolulu! Arriving at a new duty station is a big step, and being prepared helps ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. Review all arrival steps and required documents before your move. For more details and updates, visit the official Base Honolulu website.
The main entrance to U.S. Coast Guard Base Honolulu is the Sand Island Access Road Gate. This gate is open 24/7 for authorized personnel. All drivers and passengers must show a valid Military ID, CAC, or appropriate federal credentials. If you use a state driver’s license, ensure it meets REAL ID Act standards. Expect 100% ID checks at all times and random vehicle inspections as part of the base’s strong security posture. To sponsor family or visitors, stop at the gate or contact the Visitor Control Center for a temporary pass. All guests must be accompanied by their sponsor while on base.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates (for dependents)
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Housing Assignment/Lease Documents
Incoming personnel can request a sponsor through their gaining unit’s administrative office. Contact your unit as soon as you receive orders to Base Honolulu. Sponsors provide local information, help with check-in, and support your transition.
Report to the Base Honolulu Welcome Center upon arrival. The Welcome Center is located near the main gate and operates Monday–Friday, 0730–1600. In-processing includes stops at Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Plan for 2–3 days to complete all steps. Bring all required documents to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is just outside the Sand Island Access Road Gate. The VCC is open Monday–Friday, 0700–1600. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be sponsored by an authorized base member.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Military One Source is the U.S. Transportation Command’s one-stop shop for personal property information and access to systems: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-housing/moving/pcs-and-military-moves . (Courtesy photo)
Start your PCS to U.S. Coast Guard Base Honolulu by reviewing your official orders and contacting the base Transportation Office. Early action helps secure your preferred move dates and ensures you understand local procedures. Most members choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM, also known as DITY). Both options require careful coordination—use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to track shipments, schedule pickups, and manage paperwork. HHG moves are handled by government-contracted movers, while PPM lets you move items yourself and potentially earn reimbursement.
During your move, you may be eligible for key entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps cover hotel costs while you search for housing, and DLA helps offset relocation expenses. Make sure to save all receipts and check the latest rates and rules. DPS is your main tool for managing your move—log in early, upload documents, and use the help features for support specific to Coast Guard Base Honolulu.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local questions and housing.
- Book temporary lodging as soon as you receive orders—Honolulu fills up fast.
- Keep important documents (orders, IDs, receipts) in a carry-on bag.
- Check your weight allowance and avoid overpacking—shipping to Hawaii can get costly.
- Label boxes with your name and contact info; consider color-coding for rooms.
- Take photos of high-value items before pack-out for insurance.
- Plan for pets—Hawaii has strict animal quarantine rules and requirements.
Important Forms & Links
Manage your HHG or PPM move, schedule pickups, and track shipments.
Find current rates for TLE, DLA, and other travel entitlements.
Guidance, checklists, and support for every PCS step.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance for your move.
Base-specific arrival information and contacts.