Haputo Beach: A Secluded Paradise
Discover Haputo Beach: A secluded Guam paradise with pristine sands, clear waters, and ancient Chamorro history. Hike in, bliss out.
Haputo Beach, nestled on the northwestern coast of Guam near Finegayan, is a secluded paradise protected as the Haputo Ecological Reserve. This pristine beach offers a unique experience, combining natural beauty with historical significance. The beach itself features soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. A distinctive mushroom-shaped rock formation at the southern end adds to the picturesque scenery. Access to Haputo Beach involves a scenic but moderately challenging hike. The trail descends about 300 feet via 212 narrow, man-made steps. While the hike can be strenuous, especially the climb back up, the reward is a secluded beach often free from crowds. The beach's remote location and the effort required to reach it contribute to its tranquil atmosphere. Beyond its natural beauty, Haputo Beach holds historical importance as the site of an ancient Chamorro village. The village site contains latte stones, rock shelters, and caves that offer evidence of human occupation dating back centuries. Although the village was burned in 1678 by Spanish soldiers and later deserted, it remains a significant cultural site. Haputo was designated an ecological reserve in 1984 to protect its coral reefs and limestone forests from human impact and invasive species. It is also listed on the Guam and National Registers of Historic Places.
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water for the hike down to the beach, especially on a hot day.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and climbing stairs.
- Snorkeling gear is recommended to explore the vibrant marine life in the clear waters.
- Be aware that there are no restrooms or lifeguards at the beach, so plan accordingly.
- If you have access to a military ID or can obtain special authorization, take advantage of the opportunity to visit this unique site.
A brief summary to Haputo Beach
- Finegayan Station, GU
Getting There
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Driving & Hiking
From Finegayan Station, you'll need to drive towards the U.S. Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Guam (NCTS), also known as NCTAMS. **Access Restrictions:** Note that Haputo Beach is located on military-owned land and requires a military ID or special authorization for access. Contact the NCTS visitor center for details on gaining access. Make sure to check the Facebook page to ensure it is open before heading that way. **Final Approach & Parking:** Once on base, follow the road to the designated parking area near the trailhead. Parking is free. **Hiking:** The final approach to the beach is a 0.6-mile hike down a steep trail with 212 steps, descending approximately 300 feet. **Cost:** There are no costs associated with accessing the beach itself, but access is restricted to those with military ID or special authorization.
