Sta Humboldt Bay

• Strategic Location: Coast Guard Station Humboldt Bay (STA Humboldt Bay) is located in McKinleyville, California, near the mouth of the Humboldt Bay, a region historically known for its challenging maritime conditions and treacherous bar crossings. • Established in 1856: The original Humboldt Bay Lifesaving Station was established in 1856, making it one of the earliest lifesaving stations on the U.S. West Coast. • Harsh Weather Operations: The station is renowned for conducting search and rescue operations in some of the most hazardous weather and surf conditions on the Pacific Coast. • Historic Surfboats: Early surf rescue operations used self-righting and self-bailing surfboats, a technological innovation that greatly increased survival rates for both rescuers and those they saved. • Aircraft Integration: In addition to boats, STA Humboldt Bay works closely with nearby Coast Guard Air Station Humboldt Bay, which operates MH-65 Dolphin helicopters for rapid offshore response. • Notable Rescue in 1916: In December 1916, the crew of Humboldt Bay Station heroically rescued 38 people from the steamer Bear after it struck rocks, earning national recognition. • Bar Crossing Expertise: The entrance to Humboldt Bay is considered one of the most dangerous bar crossings in the United States, requiring extensive training and local expertise for Coast Guard crews. • Community Engagement: STA Humboldt Bay actively participates in local safety fairs, educational events, and joint training exercises with regional emergency responders. • Modern Fleet: The station currently operates 47-foot Motor Lifeboats (MLBs) designed to withstand heavy surf and extreme weather common to the region. • Enduring Mission: For over 150 years, STA Humboldt Bay has been dedicated to saving lives, protecting the environment, and supporting maritime commerce along Northern California’s rugged coastline.