The Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) and its contractor, Guahan Trail Stewards, met with Humåtak residents, hikers and community members Wednesday evening to present and hear feedback on the upcoming Sella Bay Overlook Trail project. The discussion centered on improving access and safety, preserving the area’s natural and cultural character, and listening to regular trail users’ input on this new initiative.
GVB emphasized that this beautification project remains in the planning and conceptual design phase. It is part of GVB’s 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.
“We are still listening, and that is an important part of this process,” said Régine Biscoe Lee, GVB President & CEO. “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. We have an opportunity to make the experience safer and more sustainable while making sure we are protecting what makes Sella Bay special in the first place.”
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. Residents shared stories and hands-on observations about the trail, giving GVB the local insight that helps us shape a plan that truly respects the land and the community.
“More people will come to Humåtak,” said Humåtak Mayor Johnny “Bada” Quinata. “It’s good for residents, visitors, and the military. I’m happy because it promotes taking care of the property and picking up trash. I want everyone to come down and enjoy. That’s what it’s all about – our culture,” Quinata said.
“Thank you to everyone who came out and shared your feedback with us,” said Ina Carillo, GVB Director of Destination Development. “We are grateful for the input, especially from the residents who actually hike and know the areas best. 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.”
GVB is grateful to Mayor Bada and the Humåtak residents for their hospitality, partnership and willingness to share their knowledge of the area. GVB also recognizes Ryan Raguindin of Guahan Trail Stewards for responding to the Request for Proposal (RFP) and bringing his experience in trail development and maintenance to the project. The competitive bid process reflects GVB’s commitment to financial transparency and accountability, while the expertise of the selected contractor supports GVB’s broader goal of responsible trail stewardship and honoring the land. Good things take time, and GVB is committed to doing this the right way by engaging stakeholders, listening to community voices and maintaining accountability throughout the planning process.
The discussion also reinforced the importance of communal accountability and responsible visitor and resident use. GVB continues to support the care and enhancement of public spaces throughout Guam through park and beach maintenance, landscaping, beautification and other destination stewardship initiatives.
During the next phase of the Sella Bay project, government agencies including Department of Land Management, Department of Agriculture, Forestry, Guam Environmental Protection Agency, Bureau of Statistics and Plans, Guam Coastal Management Program, Guam State Historic Preservation Office, Department of Public Works, and Department of Parks and Recreation, will meet to further address land status and land-use requirements, conservation and forestry concerns, environmental conditions, cultural and archaeological preservation, as well as road access, safety and long-term maintenance.
GVB previously introduced the Sella Bay Trail as a pilot initiative in September 2025 focused on improving the safety and the overall experience of the trail. The initial concept included informational and directional signage, an improved walkway, designated rest areas and enhanced security considerations around the parking area.
