Guam Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Guam with this comprehensive travel guide, including a list of must-visit places, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety tips, transportation options, and much more.


Introduction to Guam

Guam is a stunning tropical paradise in the western Pacific Ocean and a popular tourist destination. This small island territory is part of Micronesia, located in Oceania, and is the largest and southernmost of the Mariana Islands.

The beauty of Guam lies in its turquoise waters, powdery beaches, and a tropical climate that’s always welcoming. It is home to a vibrant culture, world-class dining, and a thriving economy fueled by tourism.

If you’re planning a trip to Guam, this comprehensive travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the island and ensure that you enjoy your visit to the fullest.

List of Places to Visit in Guam

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Guam has a rich and vibrant history that’s worth exploring. The following are some of the popular culturally significant attractions to visit:

  • Marianas Trench Marine National Monument: Explore the deep and the unique ecosystem surrounding the Mariana Trench where famous deep-sea explorers discovered new species of marine life.
  • Guam Museum: Learn about the island’s rich history, culture, and traditions. The artistic display serves as a gateway to the island’s past and present.
  • Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad: A historical landmark that boasts of the island’s past Spanish colonial heritage. The fort’s ruins offer a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Latte Stone Park: Discover Guam’s Pre-Spanish era with an open-air venue that showcases the island’s artifact preserved artifacts of the indigenous cultures.

Natural Attractions of Guam: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Guam has everything from picturesque beaches to rugged terrain. Here are some of the top-rated natural attractions to check out:

  • Tumon Beach: This stretch of white sand beach is a popular spot that’s great for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. There are plenty of restaurants and bars on the beach, making it ideal for a refreshing nightlife.
  • Cocos Island: This uninhabited and pristine island boasts of crystal clear waters and several dive sites that offer a unique experience of underwater marine life.
  • Two Lovers Point: This site is Guam’s most iconic natural landmark and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Guam’s coastline, including Tumon Bay, Agana Bay, and the northern part of the island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guam

Guam has some fantastic hiking and biking trails that provide a perfect opportunity to explore the island’s natural landscape. Here are some of the must-try hiking and biking routes:

  • Tarzan Falls Trail: This intermediate hike leads to a spectacular waterfall and natural pool that’s perfect for swimming.
  • Ritidian Point: An hour-long scenic trek of rugged terrain in the northern part of Guam, leading to the pristine Ritidian Point Beach.
  • Talofofo Falls: Explore Guam’s southern part with this beginner-friendly hour-long hike leading to the Talofofo Falls, the beautiful cascading waterfall where you can explore the natural setting while enjoying the magnificent natural scenery.

Best Things to Do in Guam: Activities and Tours

Guam is an island paradise that offers plenty of activities to do. Here are the top things you should try:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Guam has an extensive reef system, and the island is home to several dive sites, including WWII shipwrecks, that offer a breathtaking underwater experience for novice and seasoned divers alike.
  • Shopping in Tumon: Guam is known for its duty-free shopping. Tumon’s primary shopping district offers a range of luxury brands, designer stores, and souvenir shops.
  • Water Adventure Parks: A day trying out the rides at the local water and adventure parks makes for an excellent break from the island’s tropical heat.
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise: A sunset dinner cruise in Guam is an excellent way to enjoy a romantic evening with fine dining and stunning views of the island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guam

Day 1:

  • Take a bus tour to explore the historical landmarks of Guam
  • Visit the Latte Stone Park

Day 2:

  • Go snorkeling and scuba diving
  • Explore the WWII shipwrecks

Day 3:

  • Visit the Guam Museum
  • Shop in Tumon

Day 4:

  • Go hiking on the Tarzan Falls Trail
  • Visit Coco’s Island

Day 5:

  • Take a sunset dinner cruise with your loved ones
  • Enjoy nightlife in Tumon Bay

Day 6:

  • Visit Talofofo Falls for a natural hike
  • Visit the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument

Day 7:

  • Visit Two Lovers Point to enjoy the scenic views before departure

Food and Drink Scene of Guam

Guam is a melting pot of cultures, and so is its food. Here are some of the best must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kelaguen: It is a traditional Chamorro dish consisting of marinated meat or seafood, usually barbequed or grilled, mixed with fresh-cut veggies and lime juice.
  • Red Rice: It is a staple Guam main dish made with rice, infused with annatto oil, and other flavors like garlic, onion, and strips of smoked pigs.
  • Chicken Kelaguen: A classic grilled chicken dish that is thinly sliced and soaked in lemon-pepper, onions, and something from the grated coconut.

Local Beverages

  • Tuba: The juice extracted from a young coconut boiled in its shell and fermented.
  • Fresh Pineapple Juice: Freshly squeezed pineapple juice is refreshing and tastes great.
  • Coconut Milk Shake: This sweet and creamy shake is a great alternative to dessert or can serve as a thirst quencher.

Where to Stay in Guam: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Guam offers options for every type of traveler, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some of the top-rated places to stay in Guam:

  • Westin Resort Guam: A luxury beachfront resort located on Tumon Bay.
  • Outrigger Guam Beach Resort: A Hawaii-based chain famous for its beach resorts, with impressive amenities and excellent service.
  • Hostel Feeha: This budget-friendly hostel is famous for its convenient location, providing easy access to the nearby attractions of Tumon Bay.

What to Buy in Guam: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Guam is famous for its unique and indigenous products. Here are some of the best local products to bring home:

  • Chamorro Chip Cookies: A popular local cookie made with toasted rice, coconut, and sugar.
  • Hot Pepper Sauce: A bottled hot sauce that contains the perfect balance of heat, flavor, and spice.
  • Latte Stone Coffee: A blend of locally grown and roasted coffee beans, perfect for coffee lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Guam

Guam has a distinctive and vibrant culture that’s worth exploring. Here are some things to know about Guam’s customs:

  • Respectful Attire: Guam is a more religious culture, so respect formal dress attire when visiting, attending weddings, and special church events.
  • Chamorro Village and Festivals: Visit a local market or attend a local village festival to experience Guam’s culture and beliefs and interact with the locals.
  • Chamorro Language: Learn a few words in the Chamorro language, which is the official language of Guam.

Best Time to Visit Guam

The best time to visit Guam is from December to March when the weather is dry and ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid visiting Guam during August and September as these months are prone to typhoons, resulting in flight cancellations, and patchy emergency situations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guam

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their culture
  • Try the local cuisines
  • Engage in water sports activities
  • Take sunscreen protection seriously

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Damage the natural environment
  • Disturb the marine life
  • Overindulge in alcohol

Safety and Health

Safety in Guam

Guam is generally a safe place to visit. However, like all tourist destinations, it is essential to exercise caution while exploring new places and take necessary safety measures like protecting your valuables and following traffic rules.

Health in Guam

Guam has a high standard of healthcare facilities, and it is recommended that you get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B before your visit. Additionally, always carry mosquito repellent as Guam is home to the highest density of mosquitoes in the world, and it is best to protect oneself from mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.

Getting to Guam: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Guam

A. B. Won Pat International Airport located near Tumon Bay is Guam’s primary airport and serves multiple airlines like Delta Airlines, Japan Airlines, China Air, and Philippine Airlines.

Bus Stations Near Guam

Guam has a well-connected mass transit bus system travel on the island. The most convenient and economical way to reach your destination is to take the bus multiple buses, and system maps are available at the tourist’s center.

Other Options

There are many other options for transportation once you arrive in Guam, including hiring a taxi, renting a car, or riding a bike. Taxis are located primarily in Tumon, and several places offer rent-a-car services.

How to Get Around in Guam

Getting around Guam is relatively easy, and there are plenty of options, including taxi services, renting a car, riding a bike, or walking.

Where to Go Next from Guam: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If Guam’s stunning beauty has left you hungry for more adventures, the following places are worth exploring:

  • Saipan: Kick back and relax in this tranquil island destination that’s located north of Guam.
  • Palau: Explore the underwater beauty with a diving & snorkeling excursion where you can marvel at the jellyfish lake, the world-famous stone monoliths, and the varied species of marine life.
  • Mariana Trench: Sightsee exciting pristine surrounding, and learn about the least explored parts of the earth.

Conclusion

Guam is a picturesque paradise, and exploring it can be a lifetime experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this comprehensive guide has everything that you need to plan a perfect trip to Guam from places to visit, natural vistas, exciting activities, to local customs. Guam is a beautiful island in Oceania that deserves a spot in every traveler’s bucket list.

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