Welcome to Guam

Guam is a US island territory in the western Pacific where turquoise waters, year-round sun, ancient CHamoru heritage, and layers of Pacific, Spanish, Asian, and American influences come together. As the largest of over 2,000 Micronesian islands and the southernmost of the Mariana chain, Guam serves as a natural gateway to Asia, America, and Australia. Situated about 900 miles north of the equator, the island enjoys a warm tropical climate and is 15 hours ahead of the US East Coast, making it where America’s day begins.

The island’s history stretches back over 4,000 years to the arrival of the indigenous CHamoru people. Discovered by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, Guam was the first Pacific island known to the western world. It was colonized by Spain for centuries before becoming a U.S. territory in 1898. Apart from a brief period of Japanese occupation during World War II, Guam has remained under American control for the last century, with its residents being U.S. citizens. Today, the island offers a unique mix of beach escapes and cultural experiences rooted in Inafa’maolek—the CHamoru value of creating harmony.

What Guam Is Known For  

Guam’s coastline is one of its biggest draws, with clear waters, coral reefs, and beaches that make it easy to enjoy the ocean year-round. Tumon Bay is the island’s most visited beach area, known for calm waters and easy access to snorkeling, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Ypao Beach Park  is a popular beach within Tumon, while areas like Piti offer quieter opportunities to explore Guam’s marine environment.
 

CHamoru Culture and Island Traditions

CHamoru culture is woven into daily life across Guam through food, festivals, arts, and storytelling. Visitors can experience local flavors and traditions at the Chamorro Village Night Market in Hagåtña, held every Wednesday evening, where food vendors, craft stalls, live music, and cultural performances bring the island’s heritage together in one place. 

History and Heritage Sites

Guam’s history stretches from ancient CHamoru settlements to its role in World War II and beyond. Sites such as War in the Pacific National Historical Park and Asan Bay Overlook share the story of the island’s wartime occupation and liberation, while historic plazas and villages reflect Guam’s Spanish and Pacific influences. 

Food and Island Flavors

Guam’s food scene reflects the island’s diverse history. CHamoru favorites such as red rice, chicken kelaguen, and barbecue are local essentials, while restaurants across the island serve Japanese, Korean, Filipino, American, and Pacific-inspired cuisine. Visitors will also find a growing specialty coffee scene and locally inspired dining experiences.

Shopping and Local Finds 

Shopping in Guam combines international brands, island-made products, and local craftsmanship. With no general sales tax, visitors can browse luxury and fashion retailers in Tumon, discover everyday finds at shopping centers across the island, and pick up handmade goods, souvenirs, and CHamoru-inspired artwork at local markets.

Explore Guam Your Way

Guam offers something special for every type of traveler. For beach and outdoor lovers, there are plenty of ways to explore beyond the sand, from snorkeling and paddleboarding in clear waters to enjoying hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives through the south. Culture and history seekers can discover Guam’s story through CHamoru cultural experiences, museums, historic sites, and village events that connect the island’s past with its present. Meanwhile, food travelers can easily explore a diverse culinary scene filled with everything from local favorites to international flavors. Finally, with calm beaches, family-friendly attractions, and ocean activities like dolphin tours and glass-bottom boats, Guam makes it easy to plan a trip that all ages will love.