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Priest's Pools

A set of terraced rock pools on a southern Guam river, reached on a short walk.

Updated 14 October 2026

Typepool
WhereTalofofo
Nearest cityHagåtña
Best seasonDecember to June
Time to allowHalf a day
Getting thereIn southern Guam near Talofofo; trail from the road, around thirty minutes
EntryFree

Priest's Pools, or Piga Pools, are a set of basins in the rock of a river in southern Guam, each stepping down to the next with small falls between them, reached on a walk of around half an hour from the road through jungle and river crossings. The pools are deep enough to swim and jump into. The name comes from the tradition that priests once bathed here away from the villages.

What you'll find

  • The stepped pools - basins in the rock with small falls between them.
  • The swimming - water deep enough to get properly into.
  • The jungle walk - the route in through forest and river crossings.
  • The name - the tradition of priests bathing here.

When to go

December to June is the drier season and the trail is easier. Rain raises the river and makes the crossings dangerous. Weekends bring local visitors.

What to expect

The trail is muddy and unmarked in places and a guide or good directions help. The river rises fast after rain. There are no facilities and jumping into the pools has caused injuries.

Nearby

Talofofo Falls are nearby, and Tarzan Falls is north.

What to pack for Priest's Pools

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
  • Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
  • Strong insect repellent - DEET or picaridin; the jungle is where bites and disease risk are highest. Find on Amazon
  • Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon

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Plan your trip

Where to start if Priest's Pools is going on the list.

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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