Your Complete Guam Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Guam packs an astonishing variety of experiences into a small island: pristine beaches, world-class diving, ancient Chamorro culture, duty-free shopping, and some of the friendliest people in the Pacific. Here is everything you need to know before you land.

Getting There

Guam's Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport is served by direct flights from:

Japan (Tokyo Narita/Haneda, Osaka, Nagoya) — approx. 3–3.5 hours
South Korea (Seoul Incheon) — approx. 4 hours
Philippines, Taiwan, and Micronesia — direct services on United and local carriers
US mainland — via Honolulu (United Airlines)

Visas

Visitors from Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and most Pacific nations can enter without a US visa under the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program for stays up to 45 days. A valid passport and return ticket are required.

Chinese passport holders require a standard US B1/B2 visa. Check the US Embassy website for the latest requirements before booking.

Currency

Guam uses the US dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. ATMs are located throughout Tumon and at major shopping centres.

Currency exchange counters operate at the airport (arrivals and departures halls) and at several hotels in Tumon.

Tipping: 15–20% at sit-down restaurants and for taxi/tour services is standard.

Best Time to Visit

December to June (dry season): Lower humidity, consistent sunshine, calm seas. Peak season for Japanese, Korean, and Taiwanese visitors.
July to November (wet season): More rainfall and higher humidity. Typhoon risk exists but most days are still sunny between showers. Off-peak hotel rates can be significantly lower.

Temperature stays between 24–31 °C (75–88 °F) year-round, and the ocean hovers around 29 °C — perfect for swimming at any time.

Getting Around

A rental car is by far the best way to see the island. Roads are well-maintained and signposted in English. Driving is on the right. Major car rental companies operate from the airport and main hotels in Tumon.

Hotel shuttles connect most Tumon properties for free. Taxis and rideshare are available in Tumon but slower outside the tourist zone.

How Long to Stay

2–3 days: Tumon Bay beaches, T Galleria shopping, Two Lovers Point, night market
4–5 days: Add the southern loop, Chamorro Village, snorkeling/diving, Latte Stone Park
7 days: Everything above plus day trip to Cocos Island, jungle hike, full WWII historical tour

Language and Safety

English is the primary language of business and tourism. Chamorro is the indigenous language. Japanese and Korean are widely spoken in tourist areas.

Guam is generally safe for tourists. The US emergency number (911) operates on the island. Petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas — keep valuables secure.