Visit Us
The Guam National Wildlife Refuge hosts a unique and fragile blend of native plants and animals found nowhere else in the world. It stands as a special place and source of pride for all. Here at the Refuge, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve and restore the precious resources of both land and sea. Guam’s native wildlife flourish in the native limestone and coastal forests, and sea creatures are bountiful in the tropical blue waters. Visitors seek out the beauty and tranquility provided and enjoy seeing and learning about wildlife. The Refuge is a vital link between Guam’s cultural and natural heritage, a vibrant reminder of the place nature holds in all our lives and a treasure for future generations.
Activities
Refuge Highlights:
- Our Scenic Overlook, located on route 3A prior to the refuge entrance, offers unrivaled views overlooking the refuge and beyond. On a clear day the neighboring island of Luta (Rota) may be visible just off in the distance.
- The Nature Center features interpretive murals depicting Guam’s natural environment before European contact 500+ years ago.
- Visitors can explore 2 miles of trails through the majestic jungle and historic coconut grove, along which they can see a Spanish stone well, latte stones, and the site of the historic Spanish church, Casa Real.
- Ritidian’s beautiful white-sand beach invites visitors to relax and enjoy its crystal clear waters. Note: There are no lifeguards on duty. Swim at your own risk. For visitors' safety, we ask that you use personal flotation devices for water activities, stay close to shore, avoid cuts in the reef, be aware of rip currents and what to do if you get caught in one, and do NOT go beyond the reef.
- Visitors can participate in tours, including a cave tour to view pictographs, ancient pottery pieces and latte stones—a symbol of the Native Chamorro (Chamoru) people—and a tour an ancient latte village to experience an ancient Chamorro (Chamoru) village, untouched since the seventeenth century. See Events for upcoming tour dates.
Trails
There are several trails available to hikers. All trails, except the Latte Village Trail and the Cave Trail, are accessible to the public. The Latte Village Trail and Cave Trail are accessible only during scheduled tours. Please see the events page for the next available tour. Hiking westward from the beach parking area along the beach and back is approximately 2 miles (3.2 kilometers).
The area east of Ritidian Cut and the Nature Center, including the coral reef, beach, and forest, are closed to the public for the protection of marine life and forest wildlife.
Related Documents
From Tumon or Hagåtña, drive north on Marine Corps Drive (Route 1) for approximately 2 to 6 miles (3 to 10 kilometers) to Route 3. Continue on Route 3 for 6 miles (10 kilometers) to Potts Junction (Route 3A). Turn left on Route 3A and continue another 6 miles to the Refuge.
From Yigo, take Route 1 north to Route 9. Follow Route 9 for 3 miles (5 kilometers) to Potts Junction (Route 3A). Veer straight on Route 3A and continue 6 miles (10 kilometers) to the Refuge. All visitors are required to drive down into one of the designated parking areas. Buses are not permitted without prior permission.
Parking:
The Refuge provides parking in three main locations. Paved parking, including parking for disabled visitors (vehicle placard required), is available at the Nature Center parking lot. Additional gravel parking areas include the Beach Parking Area and individual parking spots located along the Beach Road.
Other Facilities in the Complex
The Refuge is comprised of three units: the Andersen Air Force Base Overlay Unit (Air Force Overlay Unit), the Navy Overlay Unit, and the Ritidian Unit. Only the Ritidian Unit is open to the general public.
Rules and Policies
Please heed all posted signs and boundaries and note that those who violate Guam and Refuge laws are subject to fines and/or arrest.
Locations
The Guam National Wildlife Refuge maintains operational hours of Wednesday to Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and is closed Monday, Tuesday, Federal Holidays, and during hazardous ocean conditions. For more information, call our office (671) 355-5096 or email us at ritidian@fws.gov. Visitors are also encouraged to stop by our Ritidian Nature Center to learn more about the refuge and everything it has to offer.
When the refuge is closed, no walking entry is permitted.
For questions related to related to species lists, technical assistance, consultations, or research and recovery permits, please contact Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, Ecological Services at pifwo_admin@fws.gov or call 671-989-6743 web page: http://www.fws.gov/pacificislands/