The jaw-dropping island with World War 2 wrecks that's a haven for dark tourism

Dark tourism is growing in popularity as more people take interest in the world's most terrifying historical events. And there are few periods more horrifying than the years of World War 2.

While many battles took place across Europe, fighting also spread to the Pacific where American and Japanese forces clashed on remote islands. One of those islands is now home to dozens of sunken ships and war relics, and has become a magnet for tourists, divers and history lovers.

Peleliu is a small island in the Palau archipelago, around 500 miles east of the Philippines.

During the war, it played a big role in the US campaign to take back the Pacific from Japanese control.

In 1944, the US launched a series of air strikes that destroyed more than 60 Japanese ships in the area.

Many of the wrecks remain underwater to this day. According to Diving The World, some were later salvaged by Japan, but the ones that were left behind have turned into artificial reefs, now covered in coral and marine life.

One of the most famous wrecks is the Teshio Maru, which was damaged by US aircraft and later sank in the shipping channel.

Divers can still see a deck gun at the front of the ship and explore inside through large openings.

Another is the Chuyo Maru, hit by a bomb and now lying upright on the seabed.

Much of it is still intact, including an anti-aircraft gun at the back.

The Helmet Wreck, found by surprise during dive explorations, still has depth charges on board, while Jake's Seaplane sits in shallow water, partly visible from the surface.

But the wrecks are not the only reminder of the war. Peleliu was also the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific.

US marines landed there in September 1944 expecting a quick victory, but ended up in a brutal month-long fight.

More than 1,700 Americans were killed and thousands more injured. Over 10,900 Japanese soldiers died, with only around 19 taken prisoner.

Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the island to see tanks, bunkers, an old Japanese airstrip, and a museum filled with artefacts from the battle.

There's also a chance to visit Orange Beach, where the first wave of US troops came under heavy fire during the landings.

On top of that, remnants like bullets and shells can still be spotted on the reef or during guided tours.

Another place that's perfect for anyone who is a fan of dark tourism is Bunce Island.