Southern Guam’s rich history, cultural heritage, and spectacular scenery offer visitors a variety of memorable experiences. From pristine beaches and vibrant marine life to historic sites, Southern Guam is a paradise for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pacific Islands while connecting with nature and history. Below are some of the many captivating attractions in Southern Guam for visitors to explore.
Watch the following video “Exploring the Magnificent Landscapes of Southern Guam.”
Fish Eye Marine Park in Southern Guam
Nestled in the scenic waters of Piti Bay, Fish Eye Marine Park (魚眼公園) is a top destination for marine enthusiasts. In addition to its 280-meter wooden boardwalk, the park features a unique 360-degree underwater observatory. Shaped like a fish’s eye, this observatory allows visitors to descend 10 meters below sea level via a spiral staircase, where they can view the vibrant underwater world through 24 windows.
For the more adventurous, this park also offers snorkeling and diving tours. These experiences provide a closer look at the abundant marine life and coral reefs in these breathtaking underwater environments. Whether exploring the depths from the observatory or diving into the clear waters, the park provides an unforgettable encounter with Guam’s remarkable marine biodiversity.
Magellan Monument in Southern Guam
Magellan Monument (麥哲倫紀念碑) in Umatac commemorates Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who made a historic stop in Guam during his circumnavigation of the globe in 1521. Located near Umatac Bay Park, this triangular-shaped monument stands 4 meters tall. It offers a reflection of a pivotal moment in world exploration and stunning views of the Umatac Bay coastline and surrounding mountains.
Guam Veterans Memorial in Southern Guam
Guam Veterans Memorial (越戰紀念公園) overlooks the hills of Humåtak and honors the 74 Chamoru men who died in the Vietnam War. Developed by the Guam Women’s Club in 1971, the park features plaques and memorials dedicated to the fallen soldiers, making it a solemn place for reflection and remembrance.
This peaceful park not only serves as a tribute to Guam’s historic wartime ties to the United States, but also provides a serene environment for visitors. Its tranquil setting attracts both tourists and locals, providing a place to pay respects while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Umatac Bridge in Southern Guam
The Umatac Bridge (猶瑪特克橋) is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Southern Guam. Contrary to popular belief, the bridge was not built during the Spanish colonial era. It was built in 1985 under Governor Ricardo J. Bordallo. The towers were restored in 2017, and now feature a spiral staircase that leads to a walkway with excellent views of the surrounding village and highway.
The historic village of Umatac, which surrounds the bridge, offers a deeper exploration of Guam’s colonial heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. With its blend of historical significance and scenic beauty, Umatac Bridge remains an essential stop for visitors interested in the island’s past.
Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad in Southern Guam
Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad (索來戴堡), perched on a cliff 60 meters above Umatac Bay, offers breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding coastline. Built in the early 19th century, this Spanish fort once served as a defensive outpost to protect Guam’s coastline from pirates and other European explorers.
One of the best-preserved Spanish-era fortifications on Guam, Fort Soledad, is a vivid reminder of the island’s colonial history and strategic importance. Today, visitors can explore the fort’s remains, including its stone walls, lookouts, and three replica Spanish cannons, while enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Fort Soledad was the last of four fortifications built in Umatac under the Spanish government in the 17th through 19th centuries.
Merizo Park in Southern Guam
Merizo Park (馬利索公園), located in Guam’s southernmost village of Merizo, offers a peaceful setting where locals and visitors can enjoy the beauty of the island’s southern coastline. The park is ideal for picnics or leisurely walks along the shoreline. One of the park’s highlights is the hand-painted coconuts arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree. Debuting in 2019, this unique tree reflects the creativity and cultural pride of the community, making it a popular symbol during the holidays.
Merizo Park is also home to a striking tree filled with hundreds of black noddies, a medium-sized seabird that migrates to Guam in April to nest. Although some of the nesting trees were cut down in 2023, the sight of these birds remains a spectacle. Nearby, the Merizo Bell Tower, a century-old stone structure, stands as a spiritual symbol of the village, along with the historic San Dimas Church. From the park, visitors can also enjoy views of the Cocos Island Resort, a once-popular destination for water sports, though it is currently closed.
Inarajan Natural Pool in Southern Guam
Inarajan Natural Pool is a stunning natural attraction that invites visitors to enjoy its crystal clear waters, surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. A peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike, the pool offers swimming, snorkeling, and diving from iconic 3-meter concrete platforms.
The park includes vibrant stone-adorned concrete pavilions, ideal for picnics and family gatherings, with convenient barbecue grills nearby. A blue staircase with yellow railings leads to a scenic overlook of a shallow coral reef, providing breathtaking views of ocean waves, tide pools, lush greenery, diving platforms, and the expansive Pacific coastline.
(Image: Billy Shyu via Nspirement)
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