Maina, Guam
Region: Maina, Guam is located in the municipality of Maina
Geographic Coordinates: 13.469200, 144.733000
Population: 122411
Language: Chamorro
Maina is a charming village situated on the southern coast of Guam, A beautiful island territory located in the western Pacific Ocean. The village is home to around 1, 500 people and is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, Rich history, And vibrant culture. One of Maina’s most significant features is its picturesque beaches. The village boasts some of the most beautiful stretches of sand on Guam along its coastline. Tanguisson Beach Park is one such beach that offers visitors clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling and picnic areas for family gatherings.
Maina’s unique Chamorro culture also attracts many visitors. The Chamorros are indigenous to Guam and have their distinct language, Cuisine, Music, Dance forms that have been passed down through generations. Visitors can immerse themselves in this fascinating culture by attending traditional dance performances or tasting local delicacies like red rice or kelaguen. Maina has several historical sites that provide insight into Guam’s past as well. Fort Soledad was built by Spanish colonizers during their occupation period between 1668-1898 and was later used as a defense against Japanese forces during World War II.
For outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore nature trails with breathtaking views from atop hills while hiking or biking through lush green forests – Mount Alifan trailhead located within minutes drive from Maina may be worth exploring. Furthermore, Several shopping centers near Maina offer everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion brands like Louis Vuitton or Gucci at Agana Shopping Center located just northward towards Hagåtña city center. whether you’re interested in experiencing nature’s beauty or cultural heritage while enjoying delicious food options amidst scenic views all around – visiting Maina should definitely be on your bucket list!
- Talofofo Falls Park – a scenic park with waterfalls and lush vegetation.
- Inarajan Natural Pool – a natural pool surrounded by limestone cliffs.
- Sella Bay Beach – a secluded beach with crystal clear waters.
- War in the Pacific National Historical Park – a historical park commemorating the battles fought on Guam during World War II.
- Cetti Bay Overlook – a scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the bay and surrounding hills.
- Fort Nuestra Senora de la Soledad – a historic Spanish fort built in 1680.
- Ritidian Point Wildlife Refuge – A wildlife sanctuary that is home to various endangered species.
- Latte Stone Park – A park that features ancient Chamorro structures called Latte stones.
- Guam Museum – A museum that showcases Guam’s rich history, culture, art and heritage.
- Two Lovers Point – A cliffside lookout point where two lovers jumped to their deaths rather than be separated by fate.
- Spanish colonization: Maina was one of the first villages to be colonized by the Spanish in Guam during the 17th century.
- Father Diego Luis de San Vitores: A Jesuit priest who established a Catholic mission in Maina and converted many Chamorros to Christianity. He was martyred by a local chief named Matapang in 1672.
- World War II: During World War II, Japanese forces occupied Guam and used Maina as an airfield for their planes.
- Liberation Day: On July 21, 1944, American forces landed on Guam to liberate it from Japanese occupation. This day is celebrated as Liberation Day every year on Guam.
- Mayor Andrew Duenas: Andrew Duenas served as mayor of Maina for over two decades from 1989 until his death in 2012. He was known for his dedication to improving infrastructure and services in his village.
- Chief Hurao: Hurao was a Chamorro chief who led an uprising against Spanish colonial rule in the late 17th century. He is considered a hero by many Chamorros today.
- The Battle of Fena Lake: In August 1944, American troops engaged Japanese forces near Fena Lake which is located near Maina village on their way towards Hagatna (Agana) city center during liberation campaign of Guam Island.
- The ancient latte stones found throughout the village are also notable landmarks that represent ancient Chamorro culture and architecture.
These are just some examples of notable events and people associated with Maina, Guam throughout history that have contributed to its rich cultural heritage today.
- War in the Pacific National Historical Park
- T. Stell Newman Visitor Center
- Guam Museum
- Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica
- Fort Soledad
- Plaza de España
- Latte Stone Park
- Inarajan Natural Pool
- Tarzan Falls
- Two Lovers Point
- Guam Men’s National Soccer Team – The Guam Men’s National Soccer Team was established in 1975 and has been a member of the Asian Football Confederation since 1996. They have participated in several international tournaments, including the AFC Challenge Cup and the East Asian Cup.
- University of Guam Tritons – The University of Guam Tritons is a college sports team that competes in various sports including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and tennis. They have won several championships over the years and provide opportunities for student-athletes to compete at a high level while pursuing their academic goals.
- Guam High School Panthers – The Guam High School Panthers is a high school sports team that competes in various sports such as football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball/softball etc., they are one of the most successful programs on island with numerous championships over the years.
- Southern Cowboys Football Club – The Southern Cowboys Football Club is an American football team based in Santa Rita village that plays in local leagues like GNYFF (Guam National Youth Football Federation) & GFA (Guam Football Association).
- Island Eagles Rugby Club – The Island Eagles Rugby Club was founded in 2008 and has become one of the most successful rugby clubs on island with multiple championships over its history participating regularly in local leagues like GRFU (Guam Rugby Federation Union) & Asia Pacific Regional Tournament.
- Guam History and Chamorro Heritage Day: Celebrated every year on March 5th to honor the indigenous Chamorro people of Guam.
- Liberation Day: Celebrated on July 21st to commemorate the liberation of Guam from Japanese forces during World War II.
- Fiestas: Many villages in Guam celebrate their own fiestas throughout the year, which include traditional food, music, dance performances and religious processions.
- Paseo Art Festival: Held annually in April at Paseo de Susana Park in Hagatna featuring local artists showcasing their work.
- Mango Festival: Held annually in May at the Agana Shopping Center featuring mango-themed food and drinks along with live entertainment and activities for all ages.
- International Food Festival: Held annually in June at Tumon Bay featuring international cuisine from various countries around the world.
- Christmas Lights Parade: Held annually during December where colorful floats decorated with Christmas lights parade through Hagatna while holiday music fills the air.
- Chamorro Grill: This restaurant serves traditional Chamorro dishes such as red rice, chicken kelaguen, and finadene sauce.
- Jeff’s Pirates Cove: Known for its seafood dishes and beachfront location, Jeff’s Pirates Cove is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
- Meskla Dos: This restaurant offers a modern take on Chamorro cuisine with dishes like coconut curry shrimp and pork belly adobo.
- Pika’s Cafe: Pika’s Cafe serves breakfast all day along with traditional Chamorro dishes like shrimp patties and tinala katne (marinated beef).
- PROA Restaurant: With a focus on farm-to-table ingredients, PROA offers a fusion of Pacific Rim flavors with local Guam ingredients like coconut milk and hot pepper paste.
- The Beach Bar & Grill at Gun Beach: Located on the beach at Gun Beach Resort & Spa, this restaurant offers seafood specialties like grilled octopus and lobster tail alongside burgers and salads.
- The Kracked Egg: A popular breakfast spot in Maina known for its omelets, pancakes, waffles, biscuits & gravy among others
- Maina Park – a beautiful park with a playground, picnic tables, and scenic views.
- Tanguisson Beach – a popular beach for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.
- Paseo de Susana Park – a waterfront park with walking paths, benches, and a playground.
- Hagatna Pool – an Olympic-sized pool that is open to the public for lap swimming and water aerobics.
- Agana Heights Park – a small park with picnic tables and basketball courts.
- Inarajan Natural Pool – a natural pool that is great for swimming and exploring tide pools.
- War in the Pacific National Historical Park – this park offers hiking trails through historic World War II sites.
- Latte Stone Park – this park features ancient Chamorro latte stones that are over 1,000 years old.
- Fort Soledad Overlook – This historical site offers panoramic views of Asan Bay as well as remnants of Spanish colonization on Guam.
- Talofofo Falls Resort – This resort has numerous recreational activities including ATV tours through the jungle or kayaking down the Talofofo River.
