Hafa adai,
When visiting Guam on a trip, what you want to enjoy most is the beautiful sea. Guam has many breathtaking viewpoints that overlook the ocean, and there are also many beaches where you can relax and have a fun time. This time, I will focus on Matapang Beach, a convenient spot for tourists, located in the famous Tumon Beach area.
At times, the beach in front of Dusit Thani Guam Resort is referred to as Tumon Beach, but generally, Tumon Beach refers to the beaches located in Tumon Bay, where hotels are lined up. Within this Tumon Beach area, there are Ypao Beach, Matapang Beach, and Gun Beach.
Matapang Beach is located right in the center of Tumon Beach, in front of the Holiday Resort Guam. On the right, you can see Hotel Nikko Guam, and on the left, you’ll find Hilton Guam Resort & Spa.
Matapang Beach is relatively smaller compared to Ypao Beach and Gun Beach, which might be why it doesn’t get as crowded. On weekdays, it’s often visited by locals who live in nearby condominiums and go for a walk. On weekends, local people enjoy parties or relax, and you won’t see many tourists. Therefore, for tourists, it might be a hidden gem beach, even though it’s still within Tumon.
However, despite its smaller size, the beach is well-equipped and functional. It has lifeguards, showers, and restrooms, so you can enjoy the beach safely and comfortably.
There is a signboard with safety information when spending time at Matapang Beach. Although the sea is calm, there are potentially dangerous marine creatures and, at times, rip currents may occur. Additionally, the Guam government has designated the entire Tumon Beach area as an environmental protection zone, meaning catching or feeding marine life is prohibited.
Environmental protection is also emphasized here, with efforts such as encouraging visitors to take their trash with them. There are also several posters created by children on display.
Locals also know Matapang Beach as a practice spot for canoeing. One of the most popular types of canoe in Guam is the outrigger canoe, which has a float called an outrigger attached to one side of the canoe to improve stability. These canoes have been used for navigation not only in Guam but also across the Pacific islands for centuries.
In recent years, outrigger canoe races have become a popular event in the Pacific islands, and the sport has become one of the favorites in Guam as well. The grassy area next to the beach is used as a storage space for the outrigger canoes.
Next to the grassy area is Guam’s only zoo. While there are no lions or elephants, the zoo showcases unique animals that live on Guam, such as wild boars and bats. The zoo is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The entrance fee is $15.00 for ages 12 and up, and $8.50 for ages 11 and under.
Matapang Beach, located in Tumon, is quiet and perfect for those looking to spend a relaxing time. There is also parking available, so be sure to visit!
