What is the process of PCSing to Hawaii? What’s life like on post and on the island?

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 15:57:51 -0500

I just reserved a spot to reenlist for Hawaii with a report date of May 20. I am curious about the process of getting over there with my wife and daughter as well as any and everything that there is to know about the life! I’ve heard plenty of cons such as the fields, red clay and island fever but what are the positives.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2023 3:58 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 15:58:15 -0500

Also I’m PCSing from Fort Carson.

Response by Cadet 3rd Class Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2023 2:32 AM

Cadet 3rd Class Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 02:32:22 -0500

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Hawaii, especially if you are part of the U.S. military, involves specific processes and considerations. Keep in mind that the details may vary based on your branch of service and specific circumstances. Prepare for Island Life: Hawaii has a unique island culture. Take the time to learn about and appreciate the local customs and traditions.
Plan for Recreation: Explore the natural beauty of Hawaii during your time off. Hiking, snorkeling, and enjoying the beaches are popular activities.
Budget Wisely: Given the higher cost of living, it's essential to budget wisely. Take advantage of military discounts and benefits.
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Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 12 at 2023 11:00 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 11:00:27 -0500

Hawaii was the best post for me, I was with 2BDE, 1/14 Inf BN, always busy lot of PT but lot of free time...I enjoyed driving to North shore, Waimea falls, farmers markets, hike everywhere. I never got tired or bored. Downtown Waikiki is expensive and parking is scarce. I did a lot of 5k and 10k runs, local people is so friendly and food is so diverse...enjoy that assignment, so many people wish to go there...

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Dec 13 at 2023 9:19 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:19:02 -0500

As for the process of "how to PCS" just follow your checkout list. Lean on your leadership if something comes up but the checkout list will have everything you need in regards to listing out who you need to talk to and how travel, shipping household goods and all that works.

As for Hawaii you will hear a lot of pros/cons but just like any other duty station is what you make of it. Hawaii is paradise. The good thing for you is that you will have your family with you which is the biggest con for single service members. They get lonely. Being isolated on an island without a support group is hard. But you'll have family. Just use Hawaii as a chance to get out in nature.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 13 at 2023 2:22 PM

CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:22:56 -0500

I've heard from folks stationed in Hawaii how the locals ostracise mainland school kids. I had an opportunity to PCS to Hawaii but opted to go to Europe instead because I had school-aged children and did not want them to have a negative experience in Hawaii.

Depending on the age of your daughter it may not be a factor. Best wishes on your family's journey..

Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Dec 15 at 2023 3:56 PM

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 15:56:49 -0500

I spent my last 3 years at Kaneohe Bay. The entire family loved it. Prices are high off base, but you can get anything you need on any of the major bases there. If you like outdoor activities there are so many options. Snorkeling was my favorite. All of my kids learned how and it is a memory they will never forget.
If you already have a good dependable vehicle you can ship it over in advance at the government's expense. You do not want to buy one when you get there.
Once orders are cut you should be assigned a sponsor. They can give you more up to date information about living in Hawaii and bring you up to speed on your new unit.
The island can get small at times. As soon as you get there start budgeting for at least one trip back to the mainland about halfway through your tour. I flew Space Available out of Hickam AFB to Travis AFB just outside of San Francisco and only paid for airfare from there to home. Flying Space A requires patience and good timing but it works really well if you take advantage.
In a nutshell, I would definitely recommend it.

Response by SPC Ken Cain made Dec 17 at 2023 2:54 PM

SPC Ken Cain — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 14:54:20 -0500

Experience may vary from person to person. Honestly I believe it is whatever you make it. Even bad experiences can lead to positive results. The worst thing you can do is set a expectation of ether positive or negative. Just enjoy the ride. The memories you make along the way will carry you far into your future brother.

Response by PO1 David McGillvray made Feb 29 at 2024 12:56 AM

PO1 David McGillvray — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 00:56:39 -0500

Hey! Go with an open mind. The fields are growing Pineapples, Sugar Cane, and other great things to eat, the red clay helps them grow. You shouldn't worry about missing the mainland. Your families are secretly planning a Hawaiian vacation. If you come from any of the northern states, the chances of shoveling snow off the walkway are slim to none. I spent 5.5 years there, (late 80s) joint command, it seemed as the people with whom I worked as well as the locals were much more pleasant, than my previous locations. Aloha!