War in the Pacific National Park

The War in the Pacific Park in Guam is dedicated to exploring the role of the Pacific in World War II and to commemorating those who fought in the conflict.

History of War in the Pacific National Park

Until 1941, Guam had been an American colony. However, in December 1941, the Japanese attacked the island and the US was forced to give it up in what became known as the First Battle of Guam. Nevertheless, in July and August of 1944, the Americans mounted their own attack and retook the Island in the Second Battle of Guam.

Although the conflict was not, in relative terms, the most costly of battles, American Amrines suffered over 50 casualties and 400 POW’s were captured by the Japanese.

War in the Pacific National Park today

Today, War in the Pacific National Park is a US site commemorating the roles played in the conflict by different nations in the Pacific Theatre, including America, Japan, Canada, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand, China, the Soviet Union, France and the Netherlands. From its memorial wall at Asam Bay Overlook to the Japanese guns at Ga’an Point, War in the Pacific National Park offers a range of sites and tours exploring the site’s history in the context of the Second World War.

For those looking for a place to escape both the winter cold of home and the crowded beaches of more well-known tropical destinations like Hawaii, War in the Pacific National Historical Park is the perfect answer. The park’s white sand beaches, verdant jungles, and colorful coral reefs are all ripe for exploration.

The Asan Bay Overlook offers beautiful panoramic views where you can gaze across the vast Pacific Ocean on one side and the outstretched island of Guam on the other. Sunsets at Asan Beach are spectacular, and local fishermen are a common sight along the shoreline.

The War in the Pacific National Park is actually made up of seven sites. It is probably best to start at the visitor centre, where there is further information as well as exhibits.

Getting to War in the Pacific National Park

War in the Pacific National Park is located on the northern coast of the Island of Guam, over 2000 kilometres from the Philippines. You can fly to the island of Guam from Caticlan Airport in the Philippines.