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Things to Do in Guam

Outdoor Adventures

Guam’s natural landscape provides an ideal setting for numerous outdoor activities.

Hiking and Trekking

Difficulty Levels

Guam features various trails, from easy shoreline hikes to difficult hikes through the dense forest leading to waterfalls or secluded beaches. Moderate to Challenging trails (Tarzan Falls, Upper Sigua Falls, Mount Lamlam) demand good physical condition. Bring sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and insect repellent. A Hiking Backpack is useful for longer hikes. Hike with experienced guides or knowledgeable locals, especially on less-traveled trails.

Water Sports and Activities

Tumon Bay’s calm, reef-protected waters are suitable for beginners for snorkeling. Explore Piti Bomb Holes Marine Preserve. Bring or rent a Snorkel Mask. Numerous locations for diving feature coral reefs and WWII shipwrecks. Dive operators offer guided trips and certification courses. Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Banana Boat Excursions are available from water sports operators in Tumon Bay. Enjoy the calm waters of Tumon Bay unhurriedly on a Stand-up paddleboard or kayak.

Adventure Sports

Skydiving over Guam offers incredible aerial island views. Explore jungle terrain on off-road ATV tours. Zip-lining may be available at thrill parks.

Wildlife & Cycling

  • Dolphin Watching Tours: Spot wild spinner dolphins off Guam's coast.
  • Birdwatching: Guam National Wildlife Refuge at Ritidian Point offers a chance to see native bird species.
  • Fish Eye Marine Park: Its underwater observatory allows for close-up viewing of marine life without getting wet.
  • Cycling Trails and Mountain Biking: Dedicated cycling limited infrastructure. Most cycling is recreational on less busy roads or specific paths.

Beach Relaxation

  • Enjoy the serene beaches, specifically the calm waters of Tumon Bay.
  • Many resorts feature expansive pool decks with loungers, cabanas, and poolside service.
  • A perfect spot for unwinding.
  • Swim or simply bask in the sun.

Spa & Wellness

  • Many luxury vacation spots in Tumon offer full-service spas.
  • Range of treatments including massages, facials, and physical wraps.
  • Provides a relaxing escape.
  • Independent spas also function in Tumon and Tamuning.

Yoga & Meditation

  • Formal yoga or meditation retreats are not common.
  • Some resorts or fitness centers may feature yoga classes.
  • Traditional Chamorro healing practices are for local community care.
  • Explore private sessions for customized experiences.

Safety Tip

Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. Check weather conditions before heading out, as trails can become dangerous after heavy rain.

Cultural Immersion

Learn more about Guam by engaging with its rich Chamorro culture and traditions.

Workshops & Classes

  • Valley of the Latte Cultural Park offers demonstrations of traditional Chamorro skills, like coconut husking, fire starting, and weaving.
  • Inquire about workshops for traditional weaving, carving, or music at regional arts centers.
  • Basic Chamorro cooking experiences may be available through tours or cultural initiatives.
  • Learning a few basic Chamorro phrases like "Håfa Adai" (Hello) and "Si Yu'us Ma'åse'" (Thank You) is appreciated. A Chamorro Phrasebook can be useful.

Performances & Community

Cultural Performances

Several hotels in Tumon host evening dinner shows featuring traditional Chamorro dances and Micronesian performances.

Community Events

Attending a local village fiesta is a prime opportunity to witness traditional Chamorro music, dance, and community gatherings.

Cultural Festivals

Guam Micronesia Island Fair (GMIF) and Gupot Chamorro (Chamorro Cultural Festival) are annual events celebrating island heritage. Stay updated on the Guam Visitors Bureau website for event calendars.

Community-Based Tourism

Support businesses and attractions that directly benefit local communities.

Artisan Workshops

Query specific workshops for traditional weaving, carving, or music at local cultural centers.

Traditional Dance

Witness traditional Chamorro dances like warrior dances and blessing dances at cultural shows.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Guam's nightlife is mainly in Tumon, with alternatives for evening enjoyment.

Live Entertainment

  • Live Music Venues: Some hotels and independent bars in Tumon feature live music groups playing a mix of local, regional, and international music. Check local listings for schedules.
  • Theater and Performance Spaces: Formal theater productions are infrequent. Cultural dinner shows at resorts combine dining with classic shows.
  • Nightclubs and Dancing: Tumon contains a couple of nightclubs, mainly catering for visitors and younger locals, offering DJ sets and dancing.
  • Bar Districts and Pub Crawls: The main strip in Tumon has a concentration of taverns and bars where it's feasible to enjoy drinks and socialize. Some operators may offer guided pub tours.

Evening Enhancements

Late-Night Entertainment

Beyond bars and nightspots, some restaurants and cafes in Tumon stay open late. Duty-tax-free shopping centers at Tumon also possess later opening times.

Evening Fun

Enjoy cocktails at beachside bars and experience resort-hosted entertainment. Socialize with fellow travelers and locals.

Dining & More

Explore diverse dinner options and check local event listings for special nights. Relax outdoors at night at a quiet beachfront spot.

Planning Your Evenings

Tumon as Hub

Tumon is the heart of Guam's things to do in the evening, with a high concentration of nightlife.

Varied Preferences

Options cater for various preferences, from lively clubs to relaxed lounges and family-friendly entertainment.

Local Guides

Inquire with hotel concierges or local event listings for up-to-date entertainment schedules.

Shopping & Markets

Explore Guam's shopping scene for souvenirs, local crafts, and global brands.

Traditional Markets

  • Dededo Flea Market: Operating on Saturday and Sunday mornings, this is Guam's largest and most popular outdoor market.
  • It offers a wide array of local produce, prepared foods, snacks, clothing, electronics, and souvenirs. It is a lively cultural experience.
  • Smaller village markets or pop-up craft fairs may occur seasonally; check local event listings for dates and locations.
  • Consider a Reusable Shopping Bag for your purchases to reduce your environmental footprint.

Artisan & Luxury Shopping

Artisan Workshops and Crafts

Look for small artisan shops or cultural centers that sell locally made crafts. These frequently include woven items (baskets, mats), wooden sculptures, shell jewelry, and art inspired by Chamorro culture.

Luxury and Boutique Shopping

Tumon Sands Plaza features high-end international premium brands. The Plaza Shopping Center offers a mix of duty-free and niche stores adjacent to major resorts.

Duty-Free Goods

Find a variety of duty-free goods at the airport and Tumon Sands Plaza for convenient shopping before departure.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Chamorro crafts: Woven items, carved latte stones (miniatures), shell jewelry.
  • Local food products: Finadene sauce (bottled), Guam coffee, dried fruits.
  • Guam-themed apparel: T-shirts, hats.
  • Unique items reflecting local culture.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Support local artisans directly to ensure your money benefits the community.
  • Be mindful when purchasing items made from natural materials; ensure they are sustainably sourced.
  • Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species or protected marine life.
  • Choose products that minimize environmental impact.

Shipping & Customs Information

  • If you purchase large products or many souvenirs, inquire about shipping choices directly from the retailer.
  • Be aware of customs regulations for your home country regarding items like food products, alcohol, or natural materials.
  • Keep receipts for your items bought for customs documentation upon return.
  • Check duty-free allowances for your country.

Market Experience Tips

Dededo Flea Market
  • Show up early for the freshest items and to avoid peak crowds.
  • It's a cultural experience; take time to soak in the atmosphere.
  • Engage with vendors to find out about local produce and crafts.
Souvenir Hunting
  • Bargaining is generally not common in well-lit-known stores, but may be possible at smaller stalls at the marketplace.
  • Look for unique, handcrafted items that recount a story of Guam.
  • Factor in objects that are lightweight and straightforward to pack for your return journey.

Activity Planning Insights

For seamless booking of various activities and experiences in Guam, explore options on GetYourGuide.

Activity Planning Summary

Maximize Your Day

  • Plan outdoor adventures for mornings to avoid peak heat.
  • Incorporate cultural immersion activities in the afternoon or evening.
  • Schedule rest or spa time to rejuvenate.
  • Visit markets early for the best selection of goods and local foods.

Considerations

  • A rental car provides flexibility for exploring various activity sites.
  • Check local weather forecasts to adapt plans for outside.
  • Embrace diverse options, from thrilling adventures to serene cultural experiences.
  • Support local businesses and tour operators for authentic engagement.