Asan Beach Unit: A Place of Remembrance and Recreation
Explore Guam's WWII history at Asan Beach Unit, a place of remembrance with preserved defenses, memorials, and recreational activities by the sea.
Asan Beach Unit, located in Guam, is a significant component of the War in the Pacific National Historical Park. This seaside park, known locally as Assan Beach Park, was the site of intense fighting during the Battle of Guam in 1944 when American troops landed to retake the island from Japanese forces. Asan Beach was the northernmost of the two landing beaches used by American troops during the first days of the battle. Today, the Asan Beach Unit stands as a place of remembrance and recreation. Visitors can explore the remains of Imperial Japanese defenses, including pillboxes and gun emplacements, and memorials dedicated to those who died during the battle. The park also features the Liberator's Memorial, erected in 1994 to honor all U.S. forces involved in the recapture of Guam. Beyond its historical significance, Asan Beach Unit offers a range of activities. The park has a paved loop, walking paths, and grassy areas suitable for picnics, kite flying, and other outdoor activities. The beach itself provides opportunities for swimming and enjoying the ocean. The Asan Ridge Trail runs along the western edge of the unit, offering hiking and scenic views. Prior to WWII, Asan Beach had a varied history, serving at different times as a leper colony, a prison camp for Filipino insurrectionists, and a U.S. Marine Corps camp. After the war, it was used as a headquarters for the U.S. Navy Seabees, a civil service camp, 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.
Local tips
- Visit the T. Stell Newman Visitor Center to learn more about the Battle of Guam and the War in the Pacific.
- Explore the remains of Japanese pillboxes and gun emplacements to understand the defensive preparations during the war.
- Walk the Asan Ridge Trail for scenic views of the coastline and historical sites.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas or beach while reflecting on the park's history.
- Remember to bring your camera to capture the historical landmarks and beautiful ocean views.
A brief summary to Asan Beach Unit
- FPF5+7JF, Maina, GU
Getting There
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Driving
If driving from Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport, take Route 10A to Marine Corps Drive (Route 1). Turn left onto Marine Corps Drive and travel south for approximately 6.5 miles. The Asan Beach Unit will be on the ocean side. Parking is available at the park. There are no entry fees.
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Public Transport
To reach Asan Beach Unit via public transportation, take the Guam Public Transit Authority bus (Route 21) from Ypao Beach Park. Board the bus heading towards Hagatna. Disembark at the stop for the Asan Beach Unit, which is a few stops away. From the bus stop, you may need to walk approximately 0.5 miles to the entrance of the beach unit. A one-way bus ticket costs approximately $1. A daily pass is available for around $3.
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Taxi
Taxis are available at major shopping centers and hotels. Ask your hotel to call a taxi. From Hagatna, a taxi ride to Asan Beach Unit will cost approximately $10-$15. The standard flag rate is $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter.
