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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!