Adelup Point – Hagåtña Bay & Asan
Site Overview
Adelup Point is a rocky reef formation that extends from the coastline near Hagåtña, offering diverse diving experiences both during the day and after dark. The reef features a mix of rocky outcrops, coral-covered bommies, and sandy channels that support a productive ecosystem with schooling jacks, moray eels, octopus, and a variety of macro critters. The point location means the reef receives moderate water movement that concentrates nutrients and attracts both resident and transient species. During the day, schooling jacks patrol the reef edge while moray eels occupy the numerous crevices and overhangs in the rocky substrate. Macro life thrives in the sheltered areas between the rocks, with scorpionfish, nudibranchs, and juvenile fish providing excellent photography subjects. The site truly comes alive at night, when hunting octopus emerge from their dens, moray eels become active predators, and bioluminescent plankton illuminate the water column. The shore access makes Adelup Point one of the most convenient night dive sites on Guam, with easy entry and exit points and parking nearby. The rocky reef structure provides essential habitat for numerous species that would not otherwise be found on the surrounding sandy bottom, creating a biodiversity hotspot that supports both reef-associated and transient pelagic species throughout the year.
Dive Briefing
"Enter from the shore access point and descend to the reef at approximately 5 to 10 metres. The rocky substrate transitions to coral-covered bommies as you move away from shore. Work your way along the reef structure, noting the schooling jacks that aggregate near the point where the current is strongest. Moray eels inhabit the crevices throughout the rocky formation. For macro photography, focus on the sheltered areas between the rock outcrops where scorpionfish and nudibranchs are most common. The sandy channels between the rocky areas host garden eels and occasional stingrays. For night dives, enter as darkness falls and follow the reef structure with your torch. Hunting octopus are the highlight of night dives at this site, along with active moray eels and bioluminescent displays. Maintain good buoyancy throughout to avoid contact with the rocky substrate. Exit via the same shore entry point. The rocky outcrops also serve as territorial markers for octopus, which maintain dens within the crevices and emerge to hunt across the reef surface during night dives at this productive site."
Signature Marine Life
Jack
Caranx ignobilis
Best: January, February, March
Moray Eel
Gymnothorax sp.
Best: January, February, March
Octopus
Octopus sp.
Best: January, February, March
Scorpionfish
Scorpaenopsis sp.
Best: January, February, March
Nudibranch
Chromodoris sp.
Best: January, February, March
Safety & Hazards
- Rocky substrate with potential for cuts and abrasions
- Moderate surge near the point on exposed days
- Shore entry and exit over rocky reef requires careful navigation
- Marine stingers including fire coral and sea urchins
- Night diving requires torch and surface marker
Traveler Notes
Who is this for?
Adelup Point is suitable for Open Water divers and above, with the depth profile accommodating all certification levels. The site is particularly valued by night diving enthusiasts who appreciate the easy shore access and productive nocturnal ecosystem. Intermediate divers will find the moderate conditions and varied topography engaging. Underwater photographers can capture both wide-angle reef compositions and detailed macro subjects in a single dive. The site is also popular with local divers seeking convenient after-work diving without the need for boat logistics.
Quick Stats
Dive Logistics
- Coral Reef Ocean World
- Guam Dive Center
- Aqua Sport Guam
- Pacific Divers Guam
Photography Info
Best for: macro, wide_angle