Asan Beach Unit: A Place of Remembrance and Recreation
Explore Guam's Asan Beach Unit: a historic WWII landing site offering memorials, scenic beauty, and recreational activities.
Asan Beach Unit, a part of the War in the Pacific National Historical Park, holds a significant place in Guam's history as the site of the northernmost landing beach for American troops during the Battle of Guam on July 21, 1944. This marked a crucial turning point in reclaiming the island from Japanese occupation during World War II. Before the war, Asan Beach had a varied past, serving as a leper colony in 1892, a prison camp for Filipino insurrectionists in 1901, and a U.S. Marine Corps camp in 1922. The Japanese heavily fortified Asan Point and Adelup Point, using forced Chamoru labor to construct pillboxes, caves, and trench systems. Today, remnants of these defenses remain, serving as solemn reminders of the fierce fighting that took place. After the war, Asan Beach was Camp Asan, headquarters for the U.S. Navy Seabees who helped rebuild Guam. Later, it served as a hospital annex during the Vietnam War and a Vietnamese refugee camp. The National Park Service acquired the area in 1978, establishing the War in the Pacific National Historical Park. Visitors can explore the historical resources, memorials, and scenic beauty of Asan Beach Unit. The park offers paved walkways, picnic tables, and restroom facilities. It's a place for swimming, kite flying, jogging, and reflecting on the sacrifices made during the Battle of Guam.
Local tips
- Take time to explore the various memorials and plaques to understand the historical significance of Asan Beach during the Battle of Guam.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the area can be hot and humid.
- Enjoy a picnic on the beach while taking in the ocean views.
- Walk the paved loop around the park for a scenic stroll with historical insights.
A brief summary to Asan Beach Unit
- FPF5+7JF, Maina, GU
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Asan Beach Unit via public transportation, you can take the Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) bus. From major areas like Ypao Beach Park, board the bus heading towards Hagatna. Disembark at the bus stop for Asan Beach Unit, from which you may need to walk approximately 0.5 miles to the entrance. A one-way bus ticket costs around $1, and a daily pass is about $3. Check the latest bus schedule for updates.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from hotels and shopping centers. A taxi ride from the airport to a hotel in Hagatna typically costs $8-$10. The standard flag rate is $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter. Ensure the taxi has a regulated meter.
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Car
If driving from Ypao Beach Park, head west on Marine Corps Drive (Route 1) for approximately 3.5 miles. Look for signs directing you to Asan Beach Unit; the entrance will be on your left at address FPF5+7JF, Maina. Parking is free.
