Guam seeks to revive eco-tourism, gears up for Sella Bay trail project

By Mar-Vic Cagurangan

Responding to rising demand for eco-friendly destinations, the Guam Visitors Bureau is shifting its focus to Sella Bay, one of the island's southern attractions, which the agency plans to develop into an accessible hiking site.

GVB launched the consultation phase for the Sella Bay Overlook Trail project this week, meeting with community leaders and other stakeholders to gather feedback on the plan to be undertaken by the contractor, Guahan Trail Stewards.

“We are still listening, and that is an important part of this process,” Régine Biscoe Lee, GVB president & CEO, said after the town hall meeting Wednesday night.

 “Sella Bay is iconic because of its natural beauty, its cultural significance and the connection our community already has with the area. Any future improvements need to respect that," she said.

Located on Guam's southwestern coast, Sella Bay was once the site of a Chamoru village called Sidya, which played a role in the Spanish-CHamoru Wars of the 17th century. Its attractions include a 300-year-old Spanish bridge, remnants of a colonial settlement and ancient CHamoru artifacts, including latte stones.

The Sella Bay trail winds through lush forests to the bay's secluded beach, with views of the surrounding mountains and coastline of Humåtak village.

Officials of the Guam Visitors Bureau met with Humåtak residents and hikers to seek input on the proposed Sella Bay Overlook Trail Project. Photo courtesy of GVB.

GVB is seeking to pivot traffic to the sleepy village amid the declining appeal of commercial tourism and the demise of luxury shopping in Tumon, which was once a magnet for Asian travelers.

“It’s good for residents, visitors and the military. I’m happy because it promotes taking care of the property and picking up trash," Humåtak Mayor Johnny “Bada” Quinata said. "I want everyone to come down and enjoy. That’s what it’s all about: our culture."

In May, the GVB board approved a $55,000 contract with Guahan Trail Stewards for the Stella Bay Overlook Trail Project, a pilot initiative focused on improving the trail's safety and overall experience.

The initial concept included informational and directional signage, an improved walkway, designated rest areas and enhanced security considerations around the parking area, the bureau said.

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GVB said the project, currently in the planning and conceptual design phase, forms part of its broader efforts to revitalize nature-based and cultural eco-tourism, while improving safety and maintenance to one of Guam’s most iconic outdoor attractions.

"No final trail alignment or construction plan has been confirmed or approved," GVB said. "The core of Wednesday’s conversation was about balance and making sure that any future updates, from managing erosion to improving access for families and first responders, harmonize with the landscape."

“We are grateful for the input, especially from the residents who actually hike and know the areas best,"  said Ina Carillo, GVB director of destination development. "They know the trail, they know the conditions and they understand what makes this area special. That knowledge is invaluable to us as we continue planning and conducting field assessments.”

The next consultation phase will involve relevant agencies to further address land status and land-use requirements, conservation and forestry concerns, environmental conditions, cultural and archaeological preservation, road access, safety and long-term maintenance.

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