The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Trip to Guam

If you're looking for an adventure-packed vacation with stunning scenery, a rich cultural history, and delicious local cuisine, look no further than Guam. This beautiful island in the western Pacific Ocean has everything you need for an unforgettable trip. In this ultimate guide, we'll provide you with all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Guam.

Why Choose Guam for Your Next Vacation

Guam is a tropical paradise that boasts a unique blend of Micronesian, Spanish, and American cultures. The island is divided into 19 villages, each with its own distinct flavour and culture. Be prepared to be awed by the different architectural styles and colourful murals as you explore the various villages on the island.

Its location in the Pacific Ocean means that visitors are treated to stunning natural beauty, with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches just waiting to be explored. Plus, with a plethora of activities and attractions to choose from, there's never a dull moment on Guam.

The Unique Culture and History of Guam

One of the things that sets Guam apart from other tropical destinations is its fascinating culture and history. The island has a rich Chamorro heritage that dates back over 4000 years, and visitors can explore ancient ruins, historic sites, and museums to learn about Guam's fascinating past.

One of the most popular historic sites on Guam is the Plaza de Espana, a Spanish colonial-era plaza located in the heart of the capital city of Hagatna. The plaza is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Governor's Palace and the Cathedral of Dulce Nombre de Maria. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the plaza, taking in the beautiful architecture and learning about Guam's Spanish colonial history.

Another must-see attraction for history buffs is the War in the Pacific National Historical Park. This park commemorates the battles fought in the Pacific during World War II, and visitors can explore historic sites and learn about the brave soldiers who fought for freedom.

Stunning Natural Beauty and Beaches

If you're a beach lover, Guam won't disappoint. The island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. And if you're looking for adventure, you can explore Guam's coral reefs, hike through jungles, and even go zip-lining over the treetops.

One of the most popular beaches on Guam is Tumon Beach, which is known for its calm waters and stunning sunsets. Visitors can rent snorkeling gear and explore the coral reefs just off the shore, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

For those who want to get off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden beaches to discover on Guam. Ritidian Beach, located on the northern tip of the island, is a secluded beach that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. And if you're up for a challenge, you can hike to the Inarajan Pools, a series of natural pools surrounded by lush jungle.

Exciting Activities and Attractions

From shopping and dining to diving and hiking, Guam has something for everyone. The island has a thriving nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and casinos to keep you entertained after the sun goes down. And with a variety of festivals and events taking place year-round, there's always something to see and do on Guam.

Guam has a number of very interesting seasonal festivals that are lined up with the harvest months of each village — from the Crab festival to the Agat Mango Festival and **Talo'fo'fo Banana Festival **in early June, these festivals offer fantastic insights to the local life and culture in Guam.

One of the most popular festivals on Guam is the annual Guam Micronesia Island Fair, which celebrates the culture and traditions of the Micronesian islands, with live music, dance performances, and traditional food and crafts. This year, the fair takes place from **23 June to 25 June **at the Governor Joseph Flores Memorial Park.

For adventure seekers, Guam offers a variety of activities to get your heart pumping. You can go scuba diving and explore the island's coral reefs, or hike to the top of Mount Lam Lam, the highest peak on Guam. And if you're feeling really brave, you can go skydiving and experience the thrill of freefalling over the island.

Best Time to Visit Guam

Guam has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. This is also the peak tourist season in Guam.

During this time, you can expect warm temperatures and clear skies. The average temperature during this time is around 86°F (30°C), and the water temperature is perfect for swimming and other water activities.

Typhoon season in Guam runs from April until November, and most likely to hit in the second half of the year from June to November. Tourist traffic tends to be lower during this period, so if you would like to avoid the crowds and are comfortable with taking a little risk with the weather, you can consider visiting Guam in April or May.

Creating Your Guam Itinerary

When it comes to planning your Guam itinerary, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore historic sites, or try new foods, there's something for everyone on Guam.

Must-Visit Destinations

One of the top destinations on Guam is Tumon Bay, a seven-mile stretch of beach that's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The crystal clear waters of Tumon Bay are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. You can also take a sunset dinner cruise from Tumon Bay to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Guam coastline.

Another popular spot is the Two Lovers Point lookout, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Legend has it that two lovers, forbidden to be together, jumped off the cliff at Two Lovers Point and into the ocean below, choosing to spend eternity together rather than be apart. The lookout is a popular spot for couples and visitors to take in the romantic views and snap a few photos.

Top Beaches and Natural Attractions

On top of the most popular Tumon Beach, if you're a beach lover, don't miss the chance to visit Ypao Beach. The soft white sand and calm waters of Ypao Beach make it the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. You can also rent snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world and see colorful fish and other marine life up close.

For nature enthusiasts, there's the Ritidian Point Wildlife Refuge, where you can see rare bird species and sea turtles. The refuge is home to over 20 species of birds, including the endangered Mariana fruit dove and Guam rail. You can also take a guided tour of the refuge to learn more about the local flora and fauna and the efforts being made to protect them.

Cultural and Historical Sites

![Latte Stone Park | Source: Expedia]( "Latte Stone Park | Source: Expedia")

Guam is home to a variety of historic sites, including the Latte Stone Park and the Fort Nuestra Senora de la Soledad. The Latte Stone Park is home to ancient Chamorro latte stones, which were used as building supports for traditional Chamorro houses. The Fort Nuestra Senora de la Soledad, built in the 17th century, was used as a defense against pirates and other invaders and offers a glimpse into Guam's colonial past.

Savoring Guam's Local Cuisine

One of the highlights of any trip to Guam is the chance to try the local cuisine.

Some of the must-try dishes include red rice, finadene sauce, and barbecue chicken. And if you're feeling adventurous, be sure to try the Chamorro delicacy kelaguen.

For the best variety of food options, head to the Chamorro Village Night Market that is opened only on Wednesdays, or the Guam Premier Outlets food court. You'll find a range of delicious options at affordable prices. And If you're looking for a more immersive culinary experience, check out the local food markets, where you can sample a variety of street foods and local specialties.

Transportation and Getting Around Guam

Arriving in Guam

The most convenient way to arrive in Guam is by air. You will fly in to Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) located in Tamuning. If you are planning to combine your trip to Guam with a visit to Hawaii, consider taking United Airline's Island Hopper flight for some of the most scenic views.

Public Transportation Options

There are no trains in Guam, but it has a bus system that runs throughout the island, making it easy to get around without a car. You can also use taxis or hire a private driver for a more personalized and convenient experience.

Renting a Car or Scooter

If you prefer to drive yourself, renting a car or scooter is a great option. Just be aware that driving in Guam can be a little tricky, with narrow roads and steep cliffs.