Guam

Country · Oceania

Guam is a small island in the western Pacific. It is an unincorporated territory of the United States, so it uses US law, the US dollar and US-style services. The capital is Hagåtña. The island is about 30 miles (48 km) long.

The native people are the CHamoru (also spelled Chamorro). Their culture is easy to notice in the food, the language and the ancient latte stones. Spanish, Japanese and American rule all left marks on the island. Many visitors come from Japan and South Korea for beaches and shopping. Guam suits beach travelers, families and history fans on a short trip. A rental car helps you see the whole island.

Most visitors stay in the Tumon resort area or near it.

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Money & payments

Guam uses the US dollar. Many goods are imported, so some prices are high. A rental car often costs for $50 or more a day, so add that to your budget if you want to explore.

USD

Widely accepted

1 USD ≈ 0.8802 EUR 1 EUR ≈ 1.136 USD

Hotel (double room, per night)mid-range hotel, room for two, approximate

90 – 130 USD

Dinner (mid-range restaurant)mid-range restaurant, per person, approximate

30 – 40 USD

Inexpensive mealper person, approximate

10 – 20 USD

Featured Lists

United States Geological Survey (USGS) / Public domain

Guam's Absolute Essentials

Guam’s landscape is defined by its Spanish colonial history and strategic Pacific location. This collection features 19 essential sites, including the 19th-century Fort Santa Agueda and the Agana Spanish Bridge. The island's wartime legacy is preserved at the War in the Pacific National Historical Park and unique underwater sites like the SMS Cormoran and Tokai Maru shipwrecks. Natural landmarks range from the northern limestone cliffs of Ritidian Point to the inland Sigua Falls, while local culture is highlighted through the Umatac Outdoor Library and modern Chamorro fusion cuisine.

19 places

Brucem10113 / CC BY-SA 4.0

Beaches and Shipwrecks

Guam's coastline offers a diverse mix of secluded sandy shores and historically significant underwater sites. Apra Harbor contains the unique pairing of the SMS Cormoran II and the Tokai Maru, the only site in the world where shipwrecks from two different World Wars touch. The island's beaches range from the rugged limestone cliffs of Tagachan to the iconic mushroom-shaped rock formations at Tanguisson. Many sites, such as Haputo and Jinapsan, are located within ecological reserves or military installations, preserving their natural coral reefs and archaeological remains.

19 places

Daderot / CC0

Guam's Historical Sites

Guam's landscape preserves centuries of history, from the Spanish colonial era to the Pacific theater of World War II. This collection includes 19th-century fortifications like Fort Santa Agueda and Fort Soledad, which protected the island's coastline. The Agana Spanish Bridge and the Umatac Outdoor Library highlight unique architectural developments under Spanish and American administrations. World War II history is represented by Japanese pillboxes and beach defenses, while monuments like the Atantano Shrine and Magellan Monument mark significant cultural encounters and political exiles.

9 places

Significant Religious Sites

Guam’s religious landscape reflects a deep Spanish colonial history and modern spiritual diversity. This collection highlights the Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica, which stands on the site of the island's first Catholic mission from 1669, alongside the historic Atantano Shrine. The list also features various denominational sites including Baptist, Jehovah’s Witness, and Latter-day Saints houses of worship, spanning from the central hub of Hagåtña to the southern villages of Santa Rita and Talofofo.

10 places

United States Geological Survey (USGS) / Public domain

Guam's Scenic Parks and Peaks

Guam’s landscape transitions from northern limestone plateaus to southern volcanic mountains. This selection highlights the island's diverse topography, featuring the northernmost cliffs of Ritidian Point and the historic heights of Mount Alifan. It includes significant sites like Ga'an Point, part of the War in the Pacific National Historical Park, and cultural landmarks such as Two Lovers Point. These locations offer expansive views of the Philippine Sea and Pacific Ocean while preserving ecological reserves and ancient Chamorro archaeological heritage.

10 places

Tours & Activities

Guam — Map

Tipping

Guam follows US tipping customs. At sit-down restaurants a tip is expected. At counters and fast-food places you do not need to tip.

RestaurantExpected

15–20 % at sit-down restaurants

BarExpected

about $1–2 per drink or 15–20 % of the tab

TaxiOptional

round up or 10–15 %

HotelOptional

$1–2 per bag for porters

Tour guideOptional

$5–15 per person for a tour

Electricity

Guam uses standard US outlets. Travelers from Europe, Asia and Australia may need an adapter and a voltage check for their devices.

Type A

Type B

120 V · 60 Hz

Language

English and CHamoru are the official languages. English is used everywhere, including in shops, hotels and on road signs. You will often hear CHamoru words, such as the greeting Håfa adai. Many visitors speak Japanese or Korean, and some tourist businesses have staff who speak these languages.

HelloHåfa adai

Thank youSi Yu'os ma'åse'

YesHunggan

NoÅhe'

GoodbyeAdios

Safety & emergencies

Guam is generally a relaxed place for visitors. The main risks come from nature.

Typhoons: Typhoons can occur at any time of year. The peak is around July to November. Check the forecast and follow hotel and government advice.
Ocean: Rip currents can occur, even on calm-looking beaches. Swim at beaches with lifeguards when you can, and do not swim alone.
Theft: Do not leave valuables visible in a parked car or on the beach.
Military land: Parts of the island belong to US military bases. These areas are closed to the public.

General emergency911

Health

Tap water: The Guam Waterworks Authority says the tap water is safe to drink. If a local notice says otherwise, follow it.
Sun and heat: The climate is tropical. Use sun protection and drink water.
Insects: Use insect repellent. Mosquitoes are active in the tropics.
Healthcare: Guam has hospitals and pharmacies. Travel insurance with medical cover is a good idea.

Visas & entry

Guam is part of the United States, so US immigration rules apply. Entry rules depend on your passport. You need a valid passport and a return or onward ticket within your permitted stay.

US citizens: You do not need a visa. Bring a REAL ID-compliant ID, or a valid photo ID plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. The official tourism board lists these rules.
Standard Visa Waiver Program (ESTA): Citizens of the countries in the regular US Visa Waiver Program, including many European countries, can enter Guam with an approved ESTA, as for the rest of the US. The stay can be up to 90 days.
Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program: Citizens of 12 places can enter Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands only, without a visa, for up to 45 days. These are Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Nauru, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Apply online for the G-CNMI electronic travel authorization before you travel.
Other passports: You usually need a US visa. Check which route applies to you.
Declaration form: All arriving passengers must complete the Guam electronic declaration form. You can submit it up to 72 hours before arrival. One form is enough per household, and it is electronic only. See Guam Visitors Bureau – entry and exit formalities.

Visa and entry requirements change frequently. Verify current requirements with the official immigration authority or your country's embassy before travel.

Getting around

By car: A rental car is the most practical way to see the island. Major rental companies work at the airport and hotels. Book early in the busy season from December to April.
By bus: The Guam Regional Transit Authority runs buses, but service is not frequent. Routes do not reach many beaches and sights. See GRTA – Guam Regional Transit Authority.
By taxi: Taxis are available. Ask about the fare before you start.
Ride-hailing: Ride-hailing is limited. Do not rely on it. Local apps exist, but they have fewer drivers.
Hotel shuttles: Some hotels offer free or paid airport transfers. Ask when you book.
Trains: There are no railways on Guam.

Driving

Speed signs: Signs use miles per hour, not km/h.
Seat belts and phones: All passengers must wear seat belts. Reading or sending messages while driving is illegal.
Your licence: Many visitors can drive with a home licence for a short stay. Carry an International Driving Permit alongside your home licence, and confirm the rules with your rental company.
Remote roads: Some roads to quiet beaches and trailheads are unpaved. A higher car helps there.

Drive on the right

Urban56 km/h

Rural72 km/h

No motorway vignette needed

Guam has no toll roads and no vignette.

Petrol: Regular, Plus, PremiumDiesel: Diesel

Food & drink

CHamoru food is the local food to try. Meals often include grilled meat or fish, red rice and a spicy dipping sauce. Big family parties, called fiestas, are where the best-known dishes appear. Some restaurants and the Chamorro Village have local dishes and vendors.

Guam also has a lot of Asian food. Many visitors come from Japan and South Korea, and many residents are of Asian origin. American chain restaurants are common too.

Sweets & desserts

LatiyaA sponge cake topped with custard and cinnamon. A common fiesta dessert.

Signature dishes

Red rice hineksa' agaga'Rice colored and flavored with achote seeds. Served with most Chamorro meals.

Chicken kelaguen kelaguen mannokGrilled chicken mixed with lemon juice, coconut and hot pepper. Eaten cold or warm.

Fina'denne'A dipping sauce of soy sauce, lemon, onion and hot pepper. Served with grilled meat and fish.

Chamorro barbecueMarinated ribs, chicken or short ribs grilled over charcoal. Served at fiestas and roadside stands.

Where to explore

The island is small, so most visitors stay in one area and take day trips by car. These are the main areas to know.

North and Tumon

Tumon: The main resort area and the best base for a first visit. It has hotels, shops, restaurants and a beach on Tumon Bay. Two Lovers Leap is a cliff viewpoint above the bay. It is known for a CHamoru love legend.
Ritidian: At the northern tip, Ritidian Point is part of a national wildlife refuge. It has cliffs, a beach and archaeological sites.

Hagåtña and the west coast

Hagåtña: The capital. Look for Plaza de España, the Spanish-era ruins nearby and the Guam Museum.
War in the Pacific National Historical Park: World War II is a major part of Guam's story. Japan occupied the island from 1941 to 1944, and US forces took it back in 1944. The national park protects battle sites along the west coast.

South

Umatac: A small village with the Spanish-era Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad and views over the bay.
Inarajan: A quiet historic village. Its natural ocean pools are one of the most popular stops. Conditions vary, so check the sea before you swim.
Merizo and Cocos Island: Cocos Island is a small island off the south coast. Ferries run to it from the Merizo area. Check the current schedule before you go.