Best things to do in Guam

Settle in for a romantic sunset over the water at Two Lovers Point. According to a local legend, at this site a Spanish nobleman and the daughter of a Chamorro chieftain decided to take their lives so they could be together forever. The ill-fated lovers leapt off the cliff and into the sea below, their souls finally finding freedom in the afterlife. You can feel the romance of the tale as you look down at the clear but rock-strewn water from the safety of the observation point, which now stands out as one of Guam's best-known attractions.

Enjoy a picnic with family and friends at Ypao Beach Park, where the grass meets the sand. The popular, well-manicured coastal park serves as the perfect place to gather in a family-friendly environment. Don your swimsuit and grab some snorkeling gear--you can marvel at the underwater world teeming with corals and colorful marine life just off the coast. An abundance of cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops will keep you from getting thirsty, hungry, or bored.

Relax on the crisp sand of Tumon Beach, which bustles with energy all day. You can spice up your visit by hiring a kayak, taking a boat tour, or snorkeling to admire the coral reef below. Remember to bring water-appropriate footwear, as the abundance of corals on the sea floor can cause painful cuts on your feet.

You'll feel like you're at the edge of the world at Ritidian Point. The secluded beach--which sits at the bottom of dramatic cliffs at the northernmost tip of Guam--can prove difficult to reach, but you won't regret the drive along pothole-ridden roads once you arrive. Park at the top of the cliff and make your way down the winding, narrow track to the pristine beach, which offers a refreshing alternative to the crowded spots around Tumon Bay. Bring thick-soled water shoes, snorkeling gear, some snacks, and plenty of sunscreen to make the most of your day at the point.

Featuring one of the world's longest underwater observation tunnels, UnderWater World is home to more than 80 species of marine animals, including moray eels, spotted eagle rays, and zebra sharks. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can take the plunge and swim in the shark tank, under the supervision of aquarium staff. Don't miss the hands-on experience at the touch tank.

Old military relics, pristine white sand, and clear water paint a pretty picture at Gun Beach, but the real showstoppers hide beneath the surface of the sea. The beach remains one of Guam's best snorkeling and scuba spots, with a brightly colored reef teeming with marine life and a deep trench just beyond providing excellent conditions for diving. If you don't feel like exploring the deep blue, walk along to the northern end of the shore to admire the Japanese gun from World War II. Expect to hear loud music blasting from the nearby beach bar.

Some of Guam's most impressive marine life can be admired from the comfort of dry land at Fish Eye Marine Park, offering you a chance to see as many as 200 species in a single day. Watch as professional divers submerge themselves under the water, attracting the animals towards the viewing glass with tasty treats. You can choose from a selection of tours, with some packages including traditional dance performances and a meal at the onsite restaurant.

Micronesia Mall, the biggest shopping center in Guam, is also one of the largest commercial centers in the Western Pacific region. You can see the island's American influence as you explore the mall, which features over a hundred shops. In addition to shopping, visitors can stop by the onsite amusement park to ride a roller coaster or explore a jungle. Satisfy your hunger at the food court, which hosts a wide selection of eateries serving dishes from around the world.

As you revel in the sights, sounds, and aromas of Chamorro Village, you'll get a sense of the indigenous culture that has flourished in Guam for centuries before the Europeans arrived. The open-air market abounds with fresh, locally produced food sold by friendly farmers and energetic merchant. Follow your nose to one of the market's barbecue stalls, where you can sample a local delicacy of pork, chicken, or honeyed banana fresh off the grill.

Retail therapy for the whole family, JP Super Store remains a locally owned and operated department store with one of the biggest product ranges in Guam. The expansive shop--located in the heart of Tumon--offers a wide selection of clothing, homewares, souvenirs, and much more. After you've satisfied your shopping needs in the air-conditioned store, stop for a coffee and a snack at the onsite cafe. Free Wi-Fi is available both in the store and at the cafe.

Painstakingly maintained and carefully curated, Guam Pacific War Museum offers a glimpse into the military conflicts that shaped the history of Guam and the Mariana Islands as a whole. Wander through the museum to see weapons, uniforms, hospital trucks, and remains of military aircraft, as well as a collection of personal soldier artifacts. The museum offers detailed descriptions of its exhibits in both Japanese and English.

Designed to be formidable, Fort Nuestra Senora de la Soledad is a Spanish colonial fortification looking out over Umatac Bay. Built between 1802 and 1819, the fort became defunct shortly after the outbreak of the Mexican War of Independence. You can admire the cannons and crumbling walls as you explore the site, which is now protected as part of a national park.