Why Guam Is Your Next Dream Destination
The island of Guam, Guåhån in the Chamorro language, is a beautiful atoll located in the western Pacific, north of the Federated States of Micronesia, within the Mariana archipelago. From an administrative point of view, the island has the status of an unincorporated territory of the United States of America, or a territory indirectly administered by the government of Washington. Most of the 170,000 inhabitants are Chamorro, descendants of the natives of these islands who settled there more than 3,500 years ago. Morphologically, the island can be divided into two macro-areas: the northern one, formed by a coral plateau, and the southern one, where the highest peak of Guam is located, namely Mount Lamlam (406 m), mainly hilly and of volcanic origin.
A Rich and Turbulent History
The first European to set foot on the island was Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, while already in 1565 Guam was declared a Spanish possession. Between 1668 and 1815, the island played a major role in the Spanish trade between the Philippines and Mexico, with the port hosting thousands of ships from all over the world each year. Following the Spanish-American War of 1898 and the subsequent Treaty of Paris that same year, Spain was forced to cede Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines to the United States. American hegemony was briefly interrupted in 1941 when Guam was attacked and invaded by the Japanese, who were driven back overseas in 1944 with the Battle of Guam, fought on July 21, a day that has become a public holiday on the island. In 1950, the island was declared an unincorporated territory of the United States, thus granting its inhabitants American citizenship.
Tourism and Landscape Diversity
Divided into 19 villages, Guam is an island that lives for tourism, which generates approximately 90% of the total national income. The variety of the landscape, in which coral scenarios chase dark volcanic asperities, and the beauty of the clear waters of the Pacific attract tens of thousands of tourists from all over the world every year. Not even the high seismic risk can dissuade the crowds of visitors who, in addition to being able to tell of having been a few kilometers from the “lowest” point on earth, namely the Mariana Trench (-10,902 m), will be able to enjoy a relaxing stay dedicated to life in the open air.
Hagåtña: The Capital of Guam
The capital is Hagåtña (Agana), a town of just over 2,000 inhabitants located on the western coast of the island, at the mouth of the Hagåtña River of the same name and a short distance from the port of Apra. In addition to being one of the most important urban agglomerations, and therefore full of small shops and restaurants, the capital of Guam is surrounded by numerous beautiful sandy beaches, Agana Bay above all. If Latte Park, where you can find mysterious stone pillars similar to mushrooms, is one of the best-known places, among the hidden and less inflated attractions we remember: the remains of the Casa Gobierno, the miniature Statue of Liberty, the Guam Historical Museum, the Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral, Plaza de España, and the statue of John Paul II. The surrounding villages of Mongmong-Toto-Maite, Sinajana, and Agana Heights have progressively become residential areas increasingly popular with tourists.
Other Popular Destinations in Guam
- Tumon Bay: Known for its hotels, nightlife, and the scenic Gun Beach, which, when the tide goes out, allows you to walk to the rich coral reef that surrounds it.
- Inarajan: Famous for the Talufofo Falls, featuring cascading waterfalls and serene natural pools.
- Cocos Island: A turquoise lagoon with limited public access but stunning beaches.
- Cetti Bay: Renowned for one of Guam’s most picturesque coastal vistas.
For those who can’t stand to stay for hours and hours lying in the sun with their hands in their pockets, near the beaches there are numerous structures dedicated to renting the necessary equipment for practicing various water sports, from surfing to windsurfing, from canoeing to kayaking.
Climate and Travel Tips
Guam’s climate is hot, humid, and relatively stable, with average annual temperatures between 26–27°C. The dry season from December to June is the best time to visit. October and November, the peak typhoon season, should be avoided.
The island is serviced by the Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport, conveniently located less than five kilometers from Hagåtña, near Tamuning and Barrigada.
Where to Stay
- Dusit Thani Guam Resort: A luxurious beachfront resort offering world-class amenities and breathtaking ocean views.
- Hilton Guam Resort & Spa: Perfect for families and couples, with direct beach access and panoramic views.
- Pacific Islands Club Guam: A fun, family-friendly resort with water parks and activities for kids.
- Lotte Hotel Guam: A high-end option for those seeking elegance and tranquility.
- Hotel Nikko Guam: Overlooking Tumon Bay, it offers excellent facilities and stunning views.
Where to Eat
- Proa Restaurant: Known for its BBQ plates and fresh seafood.
- Pika’s Café: A local favorite for Chamorro-inspired breakfasts and lunches.
- The Beach Bar: Enjoy casual dining with your toes in the sand.
- Mosa’s Joint: Famed for fusion cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.
- Kitchen Lingo: Offers a modern twist on traditional Chamorro dishes.
