Guam is a beautiful island in the Western Pacific that has everything you could want from a great vacation: stunning beaches, lovely weather, fascinating history, and warmhearted people. However, this former Spanish colony often gets overshadowed by more famous beach destinations such as Hawaii and Florida. But with their recent Air V&V (vacation and vaccination) program launch, Guam is quickly climbing to the top of must-visit lists everywhere. If this is your first time traveling to Guam, don’t worry–we have you covered with all the information you need. Keep reading to find out about visa requirements and fun activities for visitors, so that you can make the most of your trip.
All about Guam
Location and geography
Guam is a paltry 549 square kilometers (212 square miles) compared to other landmasses. To give you some perspective, Rhode Island is five times bigger than Guam, and RI has the smallest US state by landmass.
This island chain is situated in the Western North Pacific Ocean near Manila and Hawaii– about 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles) from each respectively. Location-wise, Japan and the Philippines are closest to Guam time-wise; both are only four hours away by plane.
History
Though it is quite small, the island has a long and complicated history that starts at 2000 BC. Before it was controlled by the US, Austronesians – now referred to as Chamorro people – who originally came from Southeast Asia populated Guam.
Ferdinand Magellan was the first European to visit Guam in 1521, but Spain didn’t colonize it until 1668. The United States took over Guam during the Spanish-American War in 1898 and then Japan occupied it briefly during World War II. However, they were quickly defeated by the Americans in 1944.
Language and culture
Most of the people in Guam are bilingual, speaking both Chamorro and English. However, some of the older generation who lived through World War II and Japan’s occupation also know Japanese. Chamorro language is Austronesian similar to other languages spoken throughout Southeast Asia. It has been influenced by Spanish, English, and even Japanese throughout its history.
The phrase “good morning” in Spanish is very similar to the Chamorro version, which is “buenas dias.” While you’re on the island, you might also hear other phrases that sound Spanish but have a different meaning.
The Chamorro people
The Chamorro people in the Mariana Islands, including Guam, have a long history stretching back thousands of years. They migrated from Southeast Asia and were known for their skills as seafarers. Early Chamorro society was divided into two castes: a lower caste and a higher caste. The latter was also further divided into an upper-middle class and a ruling class.
The Chamorro people had a caste system and women led clans spiritually. Most Chamorro families still have matrilineal practices today, with the mother as head of household.
Best places to stay
The top cities to travel and stay in
Tumon
The vibrant district of Tumon is the beating heart of Guam’s tourism industry, making it a must-visit for any traveler. You’ll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals in this area, as well as experts who can help plan your activities—including excursions to nearby beaches like Tumon Beach, Ypao Beach or Gun Beach. Or spend a day exploring local restaurants serving delicious Guamanian food, shopping at unique stores or visiting historic relics from World War II. luxury oceanfront villa If you decide to stay in this hotspot , be sure to book an elegant room or suite at Dusit Thani Guam Resort .
Tamuning
The village of Tamuning also encompasses the tourist hub of Tumon, so you’ll have plenty to keep you busy. Visit family-friendly attractions such as UnderWater World and Tarza Water Park, go shopping at Guam Premier Outlets, or spend a day soaking up the sun on one of the beaches on Tumon Bay. If you’d rather stay on dry land, catch sunset at Puntan Dos Amantes (Two Lovers Point). Book an air-conditioned queen room at Days Inn by Wyndham Guam-Tamuning for a perfectly comfortable stay near Ypao Beach.
Best things to do in Guam
Attractions to visit
There are plenty of activities to do in Guam if you get tired of the beach. For nature lovers, there’s Puntan Dos Amantes in Tamuning, Talofofo Falls in Injaran, or Mount Lamlam peak near Agat village.
If you want to learn about Guam’s history and culture, Hagåtña has the Guam Museum and Latte Stone Memorial Park. Umatac is home to Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad ,and Asan houses War in the Pacific National Historical Park .
Kids and adults both agree that Fish Eye Marine Park in Piti, Tarza Water Park, and Tagada Amusement Park in Tamuning are some of the best places to visit.
Top activities and experiences
Guam is teeming with gorgeous beaches, so if you’re planning a trip there, make sure to give yourself enough time to enjoy the water! Parasailing, snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking, diving and more are all popular tourist activities centered in Tamuning. Visitors can try something new likesnuba – shallow water diving with an air line- or go on classic excursionslike banana boat rides. There’s truly something for everyone when it comes to enjoying the waves in Guam!
Besides playing in the water and basking on the beach, check out historical sites such as the latte stones in Latte Stone Memorial Park, Plaza de Espana, or Fort Santa Agueda. For nature lovers, there are various hiking trails that lead to waterfalls such as Tarzan Falls and Sigua Falls. And don’t forget to shop before you leave! If you have extra space in your luggage, visit Tumon Sands Plaza, Guam Premier Outlets, or Micronesia Mall.
