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Guam vs. Hawaii

Are you looking for a fantastic, exotic tropical destination for your next holiday? Look no further as Guam and Hawaii are the perfect places for you. Situated right at the heart of the Pacific Ocean, these islands offer the best summer experiences. So pack your bags, book some tickets and hotels, and fly to these unique island destinations.
Guam vs. Hawaii

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Guam and Hawaii are part of the United States, making it easier for Americans to visit. These island destinations are known for their amazing beaches, warm hospitality, diverse culture, and rich wildlife.

Known as “The Jewel of the Mariana Islands,” Guam is one of the best tourist destinations for your next tropical holiday. The island offers quaint and powdery white-sand beaches and breathtaking diving spots. Experience their unique culture, and spend the night at their fun nightclubs. There’s also a myriad of activities that you can do and enjoy as you visit Guam.

Famous for its world-renowned beaches and resorts, Hawaii is also a must-visit for your next summer vacation. Get lost in its lush forests, explore its active volcanoes, and experience serenity and calmness in its quaint islands. You’ll surely have fun under the sun as you explore the islands of Hawaii.

Guam

Guam is an island located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean near Japan, the Korean Peninsula, and the Philippines. The island is home to three US Army bases as a US territory. This exotic and fantastic destination is known for its pristine white-sand beaches and clear waters. The island is also rich in natural resources and has a diverse history and culture.

What Makes Guam Unique?

Entrancing Underrated Beaches

Guam is mainly known for its amazing beaches. The island offers a lush and tropical vibe with splendid ocean views. As an underrated beach destination, the island is very well protected, evidenced by its abundant marine life. It is also surrounded by healthy and thriving coral reefs that have been a haven for snorkelers and divers alike.

Fai Fai Beach

Located in the north part of Tumon Bay, Fai Fai Beach is regarded as the most beautiful among all the beaches in Guam. The laid-back atmosphere of the beach makes it a perfect place for you to visit if you want to take a break from the busyness of the city.

The journey to the beach can be challenging and not for the fainthearted. But it will be undoubtedly rewarding once you take a step on its fine coastline.

Aside from its clear waters and powdery sand shoreline, the beach also boasts several Instagrammable sites. There’s a path under the rock, which gives you a very tropical vibe. The mighty cliffs of the surrounding mountains, the coconut-tree-lined shore, and the fantastic sunset would also make a perfect backdrop for your photos.

Ritidian Beach

Ritidian Beach is yet another ideal swimming spot located at the north end of Guam. Its clear waters are perfect for swimming and are frequented by snorkelers.

The beach is part of a wildlife conservation area on the island, so biodiversity is guaranteed to flourish in this part of Guam.

The beach welcomes tourists and visitors to enjoy its natural wonders. However, due to its proximity to a US Army base, you should be careful in entering certain places around the beach. It is suggested to have a local guide accompany you to the beach to avoid reaching forbidden areas.

Duty-Free Shopping Haven

Guam might be a remote island in the middle of an ocean, but it has its outstanding share of shopping centers and high-end retailers. You can “shop ’til you drop” in Guam, especially since the island is duty-free. You will surely love Guam’s shops that sell goods at incredibly marked-down prices.

If you’re on the hunt for branded goods for less, you should head to Guam Premium Outlets. Known by the locals as GPO, it is home to renowned brands such as Guess, Nike, Levis’s, Tommy Hilfiger, Sketchers, and Nine West. Other fantastic shopping destinations in Guam include Tumon, DFS Guam Galleria, and Agana Shopping Center.

Exotic Micronesian Cuisine

Being a tropical island, Guam is endowed with various fresh fruits such as mangoes, bananas, coconuts, papaya, and avocados. You can also have a taste of the freshest seafood that has been freshly caught from its waters. Rice is also Guam’s staple food due to its rich Asian influence.

When you’re in Guam, try red rice topped with Kadon Pika and Kelaguen. Kadon pika is a dish made from chicken marinated in soy sauce and chili and is cooked in rich coconut milk. Kelaguen, on the other hand, is a combination of seafood, squid or octopus meat, and other meat cooked in a sauce made from lemon juice, grated coconut, and different spices.

Exquisite Natural and Man-Made Attractions

Guam offers more than just its magnificent beaches to its visitors. There are also several amazing natural wonders and man-made ones that you can visit and explore on the island.

Two Lovers Point

Two Lovers Point is a viewing deck in Guam that offers impressive views of the whole island and the vast Philippine Sea. It is regarded as one of the most iconic spots on the island. Legend has it that two star-crossed lovers fell to their death over the cliff as they were forced to be apart.

The legend has been a symbol of this tourist spot. You will be greeted with a monument of them as soon as you get to the place. There’s also a lock wall where couples can fasten a lock to commemorate their love for each other.

Fish Eye Marine Park

Enjoy seeing abundant marine life and breath fresh ocean air as you stop by Fish Eye Marine Park. Its long boardwalk offers fantastic sea and sunset views and is the perfect venue to end your day on the island. There’s also a pier that extends to the breathtaking Piti Bay.

The marine park is also home to the only undersea observatory in Micronesia. It is built in the Piti Bomb Hole Marine Preserves and is home to different fishes and rich aquatic life. This undersea observatory is also a popular diving spot for locals and tourists.

The Exhilarating Valley of the Latte Adventure Park

Be immersed in the unique Chamorro culture on the island as you visit Valley of the Latte Adventure Park. Experience being a local in Guam in an exhilarating way. They have a riverboat tour where you will explore the Ugum and Talofofo rivers.

You also get to visit ancient latter sites, where you can find cup-shaped pillars that support their traditional homes. See unique flowers and plants in their botanical garden and interact with different animals. Guests can also see and even experience basket weaving and starting a fire the primitive way.

Hawaii

Hawaii is the most famous beach destination that is part of the United States. After all, its iconic white, powdery sand beaches, breathtaking cliffs, flourishing jungles, and mighty active volcanoes make it a perfect summer destination. And with its proximity to the mainland US’ west coast, people flock to the islands for their dose of vitamin sea.

What Makes Hawaii Unique?

Hawaii’s Renowned Islands

The Hawaiian archipelago is composed of eight islands. However, visitors are not allowed in Niihau and Kahoolawe. But you will surely get enough of the remaining six islands that offer all kinds of fun and adventure that you can think of.

Here are some of the islands you will surely want to visit in Hawaii.

Oahu Island

Oahu Island is known to be the most urban, giving it the moniker “Heart of Hawaii.” The island is home to Honolulu, the state capital of Hawaii, and its major international airport. And because of its very urban and lively environment, many restaurants, bars, galleries, stores, and boutiques set up shop in the capital.

The island is also where the famous Waikiki beach can be found. Tourists from all over the world frequent its warm and clear waters to swim and surf. The beach’s shore is also lined with luxurious stores, surf shops, malls, restaurants, and nightclubs that keep you entertained all day and all night.

Maui Island

If you have the capacity and the means to have a luxurious summer vacation, then Maui Island would be the best for you. Known as the “Beverly Hills Island,” luxury resorts like Four Seasons and Waldorf Astoria can be found on the island’s shoreline. Marine life and biodiversity are also bountiful on this island, making its waters perfect for diving.

The island is Hawaii’s center of whale-watching, a must-do activity in Maui. Experience paragliding, hiking, and wall-climbing at the Iao Valley State Park. End the day seeing and harvesting fresh Hawaiian produce and tasting popular Hawaiian dishes on the island.

Kauai Island

Kauai Island is regarded as a haven for adventure seekers, as it offers many activities that are not for the fainthearted. Known as a “Garden Island,” couples flock to the island and spend their honeymoon at Poipu beach. Explore the island as you traverse the lush Tunnel of Trees and Waimea Canyon’s dirt roads.

Experience being in Jurassic Park by joining a Kauai ATV tour. See the island from a whole new point of view as you zip-line above the trees. Watch and interact with humpback whales and dolphins on a yacht off the coast of Na Pali. You will surely experience everything exhilarating when you’re on Kauai Island.

Delectable Hawaiian Delicacies

Hawaiian cuisine means being fresh, tropical, and exotic. After all, the ingredients of your dish in Hawaii are directly sourced from the sea and its lush vegetation. The abundance of local ingredients guarantees that your dish is farm-to-table.

And because of the diversity of the people living on the island, Hawaiian food is also being fused with other cuisines. Seeing Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Filipino, Italian, and other restaurants are common in the islands. Food trucks are also becoming popular on the island, allowing you to taste these quality dishes on a budget.

A Haven for Backpackers

What comes first to mind when speaking about Hawaii is its amazing beaches. However, Hawaii’s abundant rainforests and lush jungles are becoming a haven for hikers worldwide. Many hiking paths throughout Hawaii offer breathtaking views of the waters and mountains.

The most popular hiking trail in Hawaii is Kauai Island’s Kalalau Trail. The trail presents spectacular views of Kalalau Beach and Na Pall Coast along the way. Other hiking trails that you should try include the Diamond Head Trail, Koko Crater Trail, Hiilawe Falls, and Kaena Point.

The World’s Largest Active Volcano

It is rare for anyone to visit an active volcano as they are dangerous and life-threatening most of the time. However, you can witness the volcanoes of Hawaii spewing red-hot lava into the Pacific Ocean. This is truly an experience that you should not miss.

The best place to catch a live performance of an active volcano is on Hawaii’s Big Island. You can even visit Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano in the world. Learn more about volcanoes as you see the Hawaii National Volcano Park.

Which Is better – Guam or Hawaii?

Guam and Hawaii are two of the United States’ best summer destinations. You can experience exhilarating activities and fun adventures that will surely be memorable. It is challenging to decide which of the two you should visit on your next holiday.

They say the journey to your destination is part of the experience. This includes your travel to your chosen destination. However, in terms of distance, Hawaii is much closer to the mainland US than Guam. Guam is closer to Asia than it is to California. So if you want a destination that is at least closer to home, then you may prefer Hawaii more.

Both places are guaranteed to provide you with quaintness and serenity as they are both away from the hustle of the city on the mainland. Many people flock to the Hawaiian Islands, especially during summer. On the other hand, Guam is an underrated destination where fewer people visit the island compared to Hawaii. Guam will be the better option if you want a quiet vacation away from the crowd.

Of course, vacations are only possible if you have enough budget for your trip. You can save more on airplane tickets when heading to Hawaii as it is much closer to the mainland US. While tickets to Guam can be more expensive due to its distance, goods, hotels, and food in Guam can be cheaper, especially since the island is duty-free.

Hawaii also has more islands than Guam. This means more things to do and activities to experience in Hawaii. However, Guam is also nearer to other fantastic tourist destinations such as the Philippines, Samoa, Japan, and Thailand. With that, consider taking a side trip to these other unique destinations and make your holiday even better.

You would surely want to experience a lot during your limited stay on these islands. Getting from one place to another is integral for you to enjoy the most out of it. Since Guam is smaller, it’s also easier to get around the island. The island has rental cars, tourist buses, and public transport. Hawaii also has these. But because it is an archipelago, you will need to ride ships or book interisland flights to explore more of Hawaii.

FAQ

Is Guam Cheaper Than Hawaii?

Guam is slightly cheaper than Hawaii. As an underrated destination, prices in Guam are lower than in Hawaii. Guam also has duty-free shops, which makes goods from other places cheaper.

Is Guam Part of Hawaii?

Guam is not a part of Hawaii, but both islands are located in the Pacific. Specifically, Hawaii is situated in Polynesia, while Guam is in Micronesia.

Where Is Guam in Relation to Hawaii?

In relation to Hawaii, Guam can be found in its southwest part.

Guam to Hawaii Distance

Guam is 3,945.08 miles (6,349 kilometers) away from Hawaii.

Why Is Hawaii a State and Not Guam?

Hawaii became a state in 1959 after 93% of its people petitioned Congress for statehood, which was eventually approved. Guam, however, hasn’t petitioned for statehood up until now.

How Big Is Guam Compared to Hawaii?

Guam has a total of 212 square miles (549 square kilometers). On the other hand, Hawaii has a total area of 10,931 square miles (28,311 square kilometers). Therefore, Hawaii is 51x Guam’s land area.

Guam and Hawaii Time Difference

Guam is 20 hours ahead of Hawaii. While both are located on the Pacific Ocean, the international date line is also between them. This caused a considerable time difference between the two relatively nearby islands.

Is Guam One Day Ahead of Hawaii?

Guam is only 20 hours ahead of Hawaii.

How Do You Get From Guam to Hawaii?

It would be best if you rode on a plane to Guam from Hawaii. Sailing can also be an option, but the journey can be perilous and time-consuming.

Hawaii to Guam Flight

There are many airlines offering flights from Hawaii to Guam. United, American Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines offer direct and nonstop flights from Hawaii to Guam. You also have the option to get to Guam from Hawaii with layovers in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan, and Incheon, South Korea.

Is the Flight From Guam to Hawaii Domestic or International?

Flights from Guam to Hawaii and vice versa are considered domestic. This is because both destinations are a territory and part of the United States.

Do You Need a Passport to Fly From Guam to Hawaii?

As a US citizen holding a valid US passport, you will not need a passport to fly from Guam to Hawaii. The only requirement needed is a valid US government ID.

However, if you are a non-US citizen or do not hold a US passport, you will need your passport to get to Guam from Hawaii.

How Many Flights Are There From Guam to Hawaii?

There are several flights offered by different airlines that serve the Guam-Hawaii route. However, the season may affect the number of flights in a day.

Hawaii to Guam Flight Time

The average total flight duration from Hawaii to Guam is around eight hours and nine minutes.

Guam to Hawaii Flight Price

The average airfare from Guam to Hawaii and vice versa is USD 3,520. You can purchase cheap airplane tickets from Guam to Hawaii if you fly in November. However, if you fly to Hawaii from Guam in January, expect prices to soar. Flight prices may also increase if there are layovers during your journey.

Cheap Flights From Guam to Hawaii

The price of cheap flights from Guam to Hawaii ranges from 1,100 USD to 1,200 USD for one-way flights. But for roundtrip flights, the ticket costs about 1,250 USD to 1,400 USD.

Guam to Hawaii by Boat

It is possible to travel to Hawaii from Guam by boat. However, you should expect that the journey will be challenging. This is because you will be traversing the Pacific Ocean. You will need a rigid boat operated by an experienced sailor as you sail to Hawaii from Guam.

How Long Does It Take to Sail From Guam to Hawaii?

Sailing from Guam to Hawaii would take you around 4 to 5 weeks. But your time on the ocean may or may be extended, depending on the weather and your route.

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