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San Carlos Swim Hole: A Hidden Oasis in Yona

Discover the pristine beauty of San Carlos Swim Hole in Yona, Guam: a perfect blend of hiking and refreshing natural swimming.

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Escape to the serene San Carlos Swim Hole, a natural pool nestled in the heart of Yona, Guam. This hidden gem offers a refreshing escape with clear waters and lush surroundings, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and a tranquil hike.

A brief summary to San Carlos Swim Hole

  • CPRJ+PJV, Yona, GU
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear appropriate hiking shoes as the trail can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike.
  • Consider hiking with an experienced guide, especially if you are not familiar with the area.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, and avoid hiking during heavy rain.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Agana, head south on Marine Corp Drive (Route 1) until you reach the village of Piti. Turn left by the Veteran's Cemetery onto Spruance Drive (Route 6). Travel 1.7 miles up Nimitz Hill, then turn right onto Larson Road. Larson Road dead-ends; park in the field near the closed gate. From the parking area, follow the trail through the tall grass to a gravel/dirt road (0.05 miles). Turn left, follow the gravel/dirt road (0.08 miles), then turn right onto dirt tracks to a paved road with a pipeline (0.24 miles). Take a left, follow the road until you come to a fenced-in valve vault (0.22 miles). Turn right, follow the road to the tower. The final approach involves hiking down a steep, sometimes muddy trail with the aid of ropes. Parking is free in the field.

  • Walking

    From the parking area off Larson Road, the hike to San Carlos Swim Hole is approximately 3.2 miles round trip and can take around 4 hours. Follow the trail through the tall grass to a gravel/dirt road (0.05 miles). Turn left, follow the gravel/dirt road (0.08 miles), then turn right onto dirt tracks to a paved road with a pipeline (0.24 miles). Take a left, follow the road until you come to a fenced-in valve vault (0.22 miles). Turn right, follow road to tower. To the right of the tower is a trail that follows the ridge line to a forest of palms (0.07 miles). At the edge of the forest, you'll drop down into a river valley. There are ropes along the trail to assist your descent. Hike downstream carefully; some places are slick. The final segment involves navigating a steep, narrow descent using ropes to reach the falls and swim hole. There are no fees for accessing the trail or swim hole.

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Discover more about San Carlos Swim Hole

The San Carlos Swim Hole is a quintessential hidden gem tucked away in the lush foliage of central Guam. Located in Yona, this natural swimming hole offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. The clear waters are perfect for a relaxing swim, and the surrounding landscape provides a beautiful backdrop for a day of exploration. The hike to the swim hole is an adventure in itself, with trails winding through the island's diverse terrain. The path can be challenging, with steep inclines and muddy patches, especially after rain, so it's recommended to wear appropriate footwear and consider hiking with an experienced guide. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by Guam's natural beauty, including verdant forests and the sounds of local wildlife. Once you arrive at the San Carlos Swim Hole, you'll be greeted by a cool, inviting pool of water. Take a dip to cool off, or simply relax by the water's edge and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. For the more adventurous, there's also the opportunity to explore the nearby San Carlos Falls, a moderately-sized waterfall that spills into a clear plunge pool. The area is also known for its diverse wildlife, so keep an eye out for local birds and fish.

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