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Visiting Guam National Wildlife Refuge

Guam National Wildlife Refuge opened a Nature Center/Contact Station where exhibits will introduce visitors to what Guam’s natural world was like 500+ years ago. The new center is the only environmental education facility on-island, and is another tool used by refuge staff as they continue to build public support for the refuge and an increased stewardship for Guam’s environment.

The new Nature Center will continue to increase the profile of Guam NWR and the profile of environmental issues within the community. The Nature Center exhibits are designed to allow visitors to see, hear, and feel what the natural world was like on Guam prior to contact with western civilization. This new center will promote a greater understanding of the numerous and continued threats to Guam’s fragile ecosystem, while at the same time educating the public about the mission of Guam NWR and the mission of the FWS and Refuge System.

After enjoying the Nature Center, visitors are encouraged to explore Ritidian's beach and reef area, one of the most beautiful on Guam. No lifeguards are on duty and ocean currents can be very strong, so caution is urged. To protect wildlife and visitors, dogs and other pets are not allowed. Overnight camping is also prohibited.

The Guam National Wildlife Refuge, Ritidian Unit and the Nature Center are open seven days a week (closed on federal holidays) from 8:30 am to 4 pm and admission is free. If people are interested in taking a tour of the forest and the caves, arrangements must be made in advance by calling (671) 355-5096.

Fishing - Government of Guam regulations apply. No gill or surround nets are allowed. Rod and reel, throw nets, spears, and Hawaiian slings are permitted.

Plant Collecting - A free permit is available at the refuge headquarters. Visitors may collect coconuts, lemai (breadfruits), medicinal plants, and other materials by permit.

Picnicking - Cooking is allowed in metal containers (barbecue grills). Ground fires are prohibited.

Hiking - For a two-mile loop, hike down the forest road and return along the beach. The coral reef, beach, and forest east of Ritidian Cut and refuge headquarters are closed to entry to protect marine life and forest wildlife.

Trash - Please pack out your trash. The refuge does not maintain trash cans. Keep the refuge clean for everyone's enjoyment and for the safety of wildlife.

Directions to Ritidian - From Agana or Tumon Bay take Marine Drive (Route 1) north to Route 3. Head north on Route. 3 to Potts Junction (Route 3a). Turn left on Route 3a and go 6 miles to the refuge.

From Yigo take Route 1 north to Route 9. Follow Route 9 to Potts Junction (Route 3a). Turn right on Route 3a and go 6 miles to the refuge.