Marbo cave & scenic overlook in Mangilao, Guam is a hidden gem only 20 mins from the back gate of Andersen AFB. Here you can swim in the fresh water cave or take in the amazing scenery at the overlook area. You’ll also see the ‘whale’s tail’ rock here at the overlook area as well. Note while this is a fun way to explore you need to take precautions to ensure that your visit doesn’t end with any unneeded challenges.

The road down to the caves is single lane, there are a few pulls off if needed to let oncoming cars go past you, we only had to pull off once on the way out. Generally during the weekdays it’s pretty quite there traffic wise BUT vandals are still out breaking into cars. The parking area is only a few minute walk from the cave. Do NOT leave any valuables in your vehicle (purses, etc) as they will be broken into here. This just happened recently to someone who was here visiting from another overseas base. Bring only what you’ll need (ID, keys, phone, etc) and plan to carry it with you, ideally in a waterproof pouch or bag. Leave any purses or valuables at home.

From the parking area its only a 2.5 min walk down the path to the cave, it’ll be on your left.

The climb down into the cave is a bit adventurous as your climbing down some large rocks but it’s doable even for littles with help. Also note there are no restrooms facilities in the area.

Once in the cave there are two swimming areas in the freshwater. The main area that has a rope swing and is not too deep. The color is amazing and makes you want to take a dip.

Then you can swim under some rocks to the left or walk around the large rocks to the left to find the deeper area. This area is much darker so bring a waterproof flashlight or glow sticks if you want to swim in this area. There is a spot where you can jump into the water also, it’s about 7-8 feet high.

While there are some underwater caves that you can see in the back swimming area please do NOT attempt to swim in these without having the proper scuba gear AND a trained guide. It’s not worth the risk of not getting back out safe. If you stay in the main areas you should be fine. Again keep an eye on your stuff as someone could walk away with it if your not paying attention.

The scenic overlook area is about a 3.5 minute walk from the caves. You’ll follow the path and then at the fork take a left out to the cliffs. This view is simply amazing and breathtaking! It’s probably one of my favorite spots I’ve seen so far on Guam!

You can also see the rock referred to as the ‘whale’s tail’ and watch as the waves majestically crash into it causing a enchanting splash of water into the air. This could be a great picnic spot for a date!

We did not swim in caves while we were there, we just went to check it out and see the view. We were there about 30 minutes. We didn’t have any issues with our vehicle and there were several other people there as well. We had no valuables in the car so there was no temptation.

Since the cave & scenic overlook are so close to the base, as well as off the tourist path, it’s a great spot for a quick day trip. It’s also something that can easily be added on to a day out. We hit the cave/overlook then grabbed some lunch and ran a few errands. Hope you get the chance to go check it out!

If you’d been I’d love to hear about it 🙂

Know Before You Go

What: Marbo cave & scenic overlook – Mangilao, Guam

How To Get There: From Andersen AFB out the back gate take Route 15 to Machete Rd/Marbo Cave Rd & turn left. Follow road down staying to the left. Waze app has Marbo cave directions. Approx 20 mins from Andersen AFB (back gate) and approx 40 mins from NBG.

Parking: There is an area for parking that is a short walk from the caves. Do NOT leave any valuables (purses, etc) in your vehicles here! They will be broken into and taken.

Cost: Free

Traveling with little kids: Since the caves and overlook area are close to the vehicle and the path is fairly flat it makes it easy to take littles. Getting into & out of the cave requires a bit of climbing but it’s still doable.

How long: Plan on at least 30 mins if your just hiking to see the cave and overlook area, longer if you plan on swimming.