Port Guide | United States | Worth a Wander
Apra Harbor
Alexis Tonken | Editor
Published on 2025-01-13
You've arrived at Apra Harbor, Guam-an unapologetically laid-back port town that feels a bit like a tropical vacation collided headlong with a naval documentary. Yes, fellow travelers, you're currently docked at one of America's most strategically important harbors, where battleships rubbed shoulders with coconut palms during WWII, and history nerds can happily snorkel over shipwrecks mere minutes after finishing their morning latte. Guam is more than just a military holdover; it's a sun-drenched crossroads of culture, where Chamorro traditions gracefully meet Spam sushi and roadside BBQ shacks. As you stroll ashore, keep in mind that island time is real here, and excursions can fill up faster than you can say "Hafa Adai!"-Guam's infectiously cheery greeting. So dust off your flip-flops, book ahead, and dive into Tumon Bay's turquoise waves or hike up to Two Lovers Point for panoramic views (and some delightfully scandalous legends). Welcome to your laid-back yet culturally quirky home for the next few days; adventure, beach chairs, and delicious contradictions await.
United States has 6 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Apra Harbor is the main port and naval base for Guam, providing visitors with access to beautiful beaches and historical sites. It is advisable to book excursions in advance due to limited availability.
Where do cruise ships dock in Apra Harbor?
Port Name Apra Harbor
Country United States
Region Oceania
Ship Terminal Apra Harbor Cruise Terminal
Port Type Dedicated Port
Accessibility Apra Harbor is approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) from the largest city, Hagatna, and can be accessed via taxi or rental car services. There are limited public transport options.
What's the weather like in Apra Harbor?
Best Season to Visit Winter (December to March)
Climate Tropical marine climate with warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons.
Weather Notes The dry season typically runs from December to June, making the winter months the best time for cruise visits. Typhoon season usually occurs from June to November.
Temperature Range 75F to 85F (24C to 29C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 65F
Average Temp 78F
What do I need to know about Apra Harbor?
Language English
Currency United States Dollar (USD)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 168,000 (Guam total population)
Timezone UTC+10:00
How do I get around Apra Harbor?
Taxis, rental cars, and limited shuttle services are available for passengers.
What are The Best Things to do in Apra Harbor?
Discover what you should do while you're in Apra Harbor.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Underwater World Guam
881 Pale San Vitores Rd, Tumon, Guam 96913
Experience Oceania's marine life up close in a walk-through tunnel aquarium.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Fish Eye Marine Park
818 North Marine Corps Drive, Piti, Guam 96915
Walk out to a unique underwater observatory to see marine life in their natural habitat.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Chamorro Village Night Market
153 W Marine Corps Dr, Hagatna, Guam 96910
Experience local culture, music, and food at this vibrant night market.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Yokoi's Cave
N/A
Visit the hiding spot of Japanese soldier Shoichi Yokoi, who remained hidden for 28 years after WWII.
Distance from Terminal: 13 miles
Pacific Star Sunset Show
Isla Verde St, Tamuning, Guam
Enjoy a cultural dance show and buffet dinner on the Pacific Star Resort rooftop.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Apra Harbor WWII Sites | Editor Highlight
Alexis Tonken | Editor
Published on 2025-01-13
Best Time to Go
Morning
Cost
$50-$150 USD
Activity Level
Moderate
Where to Book
Online
Beneath the sleepy turquoise waters of Apra Harbor lurks Guam's slightly eerie but irresistibly fascinating underwater graveyard-a surreal playground of rust, coral, and twisted metal paying tribute to WWII's watery chaos. Here, among coral-encrusted smokestacks and engines reclaimed by nature, lie ghostly relics of Japanese ships and planes sunk during 1944's fierce battle for Guam. Dive at early morning when the sunlight slants lazily through clear water, illuminating moray eels who've set up apartments in a Mitsubishi fighter cockpit, or sea turtles gliding serenely past a propeller that once spun furiously at war. Reserve a spot with a local scuba charter at least three or four days in advance, budget around $80-$120 for equipment and guide, and don't forget sunscreen, snacks, and a healthy appreciation for gallows humor. Even if you're no history buff and suspect there's better marine life to be found elsewhere, it's worth the plunge-because nothing impresses friends back home more than casually mentioning how you recently swam through the submerged skeleton of a WWII bomber.
Apra Harbor WWII Sites
N/A
Explore the sunken wrecks of Japanese ships and planes from WWII.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
War in the Pacific National Historical Park
135 Murray Blvd, Hagatna, Guam 96910
Learn about Guam's role in WWII through exhibits and trails.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Talofofo Falls
Talofofo, Guam
Visit stunning waterfalls and enjoy a cable car ride over the falls.
Distance from Terminal: 12 miles
Sella Bay Hike
N/A
Hike through lush rainforests to reach a secluded bay with historic sights.
Distance from Terminal: 14 miles
Hilaan Hiking Trail
CNMI
Experience breathtaking vistas and diverse plant life on this trail.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Tarzan Falls Hike
Yona, Guam
A scenic hike leading to beautiful waterfalls in the jungle.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Jungle Riverboat Cruise
N/A
Cruise through Guam's natural rivers and explore untouched rainforest.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
A Little Extra
UnderWater World Scavenger Hunts
881 Pale San Vitores Rd, Tumon, Guam 96913
Dive into unique scavenger hunts at an aquarium, designed for marine enthusiasts.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Nikko Sunset Dinner Cruise
Tamuning, Guam
Enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise with sunset views of Guam's shoreline.
Distance from Terminal: 9 miles
Paseo de Susana
N/A
A lovely park with views of the ocean, perfect for a sunset stroll.
Distance from Terminal: 8 miles
United States Regional Tip
Vegetarian Clearly ask about ingredients used in dishes; look for menu labels such as 'vegetarian' or 'contains meat/chicken broth' and phrases like 'meat-free' or 'plant-based'.