Looking to spice up your tropical island getaway by going somewhere different this year? Don’t feel like changing your currency or brushing up on your Spanish? The U.S. island territory of Guam, in the far Western Pacific, may be a tiny island but it has everything you need for a blissful beach holiday. Follow these simple tips to get the best of Guam and make the most of your tropical vacation.
Stay:
Guam has accommodation options for every lifestyle and every budget. Choose from a variety of all-inclusive resorts like the luxurious Hilton Guam, and family-friendly Pacific Islands Club. If you’re looking for something romantic and secluded, sleep under the stars in the bubble-dome bed of this tiny house, or make yourself at home in this cute seaside apartment. For something quiet and peaceful get off the grid and experience glamping on the beach bordering the lush Ritidian Wildlife Refuge.
Eat:
While you’re enjoying island life, indulge in the exotic tropical flavors of Chamorro cuisine. Spicy stews served with traditional flatbread, fresh seafood with zesty sauces, and savory poultry wrapped in banana leaves are some of the local favorites you will see around the island. If you’re craving something sweet, try a decadent slice of Latiya – a Guamanian sponge cake topped with vanilla custard and cinnamon.
See:
This tiny island is packed with beautiful scenery and interesting historical sites. The first item on your tropical vacation to-do list has got to be hitting the beach to enjoy the powdery white sand and crystal clear waters of Alupang beach or serene Coco Palm Beach. Get a good look at the island’s flora and fauna as you trek through the jungle to stand under the spray of the cascading Tarzan Falls. Take a peek into the history of the ancient Guamanian (Chamorro) culture at the Latte Stone Park where you can walk among the rock artifacts which once adorned the tribal buildings. If you’re curious about the Chamorro tribes and want to know more about the island’s history, try a self-guided tour to explore the island’s historic landmarks. In the evening, make your way over to Punta dos Amantes Cliff – known as “Two Lovers Point”- to enjoy the best sunset view on the island.
Do:
For diving enthusiasts, Guam is a hidden paradise. Famous for its historical wrecks, Guam hosts some of the most significant dive sites in Micronesia. The premier diving site is Guam’s Blue Hole. The crystal clear waters of this vast crater make for perfect conditions to see some of the large aquatic animals in the area such as reef sharks and tuna. If you are intimidated by the idea of swimming with sharks, try out some of the family-friendly fun that the island has to offer. Look out for whales and dolphins on a Dolphin cruise complete with snorkeling, parasailing, jet skis, and more! Learn about the island’s incredible wildlife on a riverboat cruise, or paddle along in a kayak or paddleboard. Thrill seekers can enjoy a refreshing cliff jump into the terraced rock pools at the Priest Pools, or hike the trail to the top of Mt. Lam Lam for a breath-taking view of the island from above. If you are looking for some adventurous friends to enjoy your hike with, join the Guam Boonie Stompers on one of their weekly treks!
Shop:
After a long week of swimming, hiking, and exploration why not take a day to indulge yourself in a shopping extravaganza. Guam is a great place to enjoy duty-free shopping, you don’t have to pay the sales tax so shopping here is considerably less expensive than on the mainland. This is especially true for purchasing big-ticket items like luxury brands and high-end fashion. For the full luxury experience, spoil yourself with the Pick Up by BMW service at the Tumon Sands Plaza where you will find the Louis Vuitton global store, flagship stores for Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Chloe, and many more!
