The island of Guam may be a US territory but it is nothing like the United States. It is tropical, balmy, and warm. Located in the Pacific Ocean just above the equator, this Micronesian island-nation has the most inviting beaches and waterfalls, and a good example is the Talofofo Falls and Talofofo Bay Beach Park, just one of the many sites in Guam where you can enjoy all the fun water activities in one day. In fact, the entire island is only 48 km long and 6-19 km wide, so you can walk from end to end in just 8 hours if you wish.
Located on the southeast coast of Guam, Talofofo Bay is popular for its fine dark-brown sand that contrasts with the surrounding white limestone cliffs that border the bay on both sides. From a distance, it may look like mud but it is actual fine sand. The water, too, looks murky and muddy. There’s a spot in the beach that locals call the “Surf Side.” This is the best place to go surfing and body-boarding while in Guam, when weather conditions are right.
Besides the surf and brown sands, Talofofo Bay Beach is also popular for a broken down Japanese vessel, the Aratama Maru, that was torpedoed during World War II. Some time ago, the downed vessel could be seen full view but typhoons and rains have washed it deeper into the sea. It is now completely submerged.
After a warm swim in the beach, tourists head to Talofofo Falls for a cool bath in the freshwater pool. The excitement begins even before visitors reach the falls because they are treated to a gondola ride going to the popular waterfalls. The gondola ride offers a one-of-a-kind tour of the forest, which ends at the cool relaxing pool beneath the falls. Visitors usually stay here for the rest of the day. And to make the visit more memorable, there is a nearby museum that offers artifacts, photos and materials that talk about the island of Guam, the native Chamorro people, Japanese Occupation and World War II. Also nearby is a park and gift shop that is open every day form 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Also, inside the park is a modest lunch counter. It is not a restaurant, and so it is best for visiting tourists to bring along a packed lunch for a picnic.
As travelers move from the falls to the bay beach, they could pass by two interesting spots: (1) a lookout area on the northern cliff of the bay for a picturesque panoramic view of the area, and (2) Yokoi’s Cave, just 10 minutes from the base of the waterfalls. The cave is named after a Japanese soldier who hid in this self-made cave, which is just a tiny hole, for 28 long years. He was only discovered and sent back to Japan in 1972.
The Talofofo Falls and Talofofo Bay Beach Park are just an hour drive from Hagatña, the capital city, or basically from any point in the island. The drive is definitely worth it.
Wild, Alluring and Unspoiled Ritidian Point
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