saipan tourism

• 1.1 Orientation
• 3.1 By plane
• 4.2 By taxi
• 4.4 By moped
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 12.1 Consulates

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Saipan is the largest of the Northern Mariana Islands .

Saipan is 23 km (14 mi) long and 8 km (5 mi) wide. The best beaches and most populated areas are on the western and southern coasts, with the north and east being rugged and mountainous.

Because only one branch of the US Military - the Coast Guard - has even a small permanent presence on Saipan, many Chamorros on Saipan consider their culture more intact than on Guam. Therefore, comparisons between the two islands should take this into account. Furthermore, Chamorros on Saipan and throughout the CNMI still primarily speak Chamorro at home, while the same isn't true of Guam. While the differences between a commonwealth (as in the CNMI) and a territory (as in Guam) may not appear to be great (especially to a mainland US citizen), Saipan should not be referred to as a territory when speaking to a local. Finally, while the population of the CNMI, as on Guam, are US citizens and proud to be recognized as such, their independent identity is equally important.

Orientation

While English is certainly the lingua franca on Saipan, few people on the island (adults in particular) speak English as their first language. Nevertheless, nearly everybody does speak English to varying degrees. Many local residents, who often use English at school or at work, speak Chamorro or Carolinian (both official in addition to English) or another of the Micronesian languages at home. The majority of people living on Saipan are overseas contract laborers, however. These people come mostly from the Philippines, China, Bangladesh and Thailand. Furthermore, Korean, Japanese and (more recently) Russian and Chinese tourists make their languages fairly prevalent in the tourist areas as well.

Most hotels are geared toward a particular language/nationality such as Japanese or Korean, which represent most of the tourism. A notable exception is Pacific Islands Club, which is geared toward a multilingual/multinationial clientele. Likewise, most of the scuba shops are geared toward Japanese or Korean tourism, though the heavy reliance on Philippine dive staff ensures that many will also be able to handle English-speaking customers.

For entry requirements, see the main article on the Northern Mariana Islands .

There is no public transport as such, excluding shuttle buses running between hotels and the Duty Free shopping center in Garapan.

There is no public bus service on Saipan, but on Saipan PDI and other companies run a shopping shuttle bus to and from the Duty Free mall (DFS Galleria) in Garapan. DFS also has their own free shuttle from most of the major hotels.

Taxis on Saipan are expensive but plentiful, however the only place they are allowed to pick up or drop off passengers is at the airport or a hotel, and sometimes at DFS. There is also a large network of illegal taxis run by Chinese immigrants, that will take you anywhere for $15.00. For some Saipan residents this is their only means of transportation.

Because Saipan is so small, taxis from the airport to the main hotel area of Garapan can run upwards of $25-30, so plan ahead by arranging transportation through your hotel, which often charge $10 per person flat rate.

Car rental is a good option for getting off the beaten track, as roads are generally quite good. Most car rental offices are either at the airport or at major tourist hotels; some offer a free pick up and drop off service.

Mopeds can be rented for about $20, though roads are very dark at night and bugs predominate after dusk. Therefore, consider mopeds for day-tripping only, as drivers tend not to give heed to mopeds or bicyclists throughout the CNMI or Guam .

Saipan, Guam, and many other islands of the Marianas were all important battle sites during WWII , and many Japanese bunkers and armaments still exist on these islands. These sites are managed by the National Park Service under the "War in the Pacific" Parks designation. Saipan is fairly small and by renting a car or moped, it is easy to drive around the island and take in the natural splendor, as well as visit a number of parks. Scuba diving is also popular, and the underwater world should definitely be seen.

• 15.286699 145.815698 1 Banzai Cliff and 15.277094 145.809188 2 Suicide Cliff , on the northern tip of the island, were sites where thousands of Japanese civilians, trying to escape the fighting and convinced by the Japanese military that they would be killed by the American military, jumped to their deaths in the Battle of Saipan in 1944. The former is by the sea while the latter is on the rock outcropping overlooking it. Numerous Japanese memorials mark the sites.

Scuba diving and snorkeling on Saipan are deservedly the most popular activities here among western tourists, though gambling and karaoke/hostess bars are most popular among Korean businessmen, as well as some Japanese travelers. Garapan is coastally located, so other watersports abound as well. For scuba divers, the term "Fun Dive" is used for those who have already been certified and just want to recreational dive, while "Taiken dive" is used to designate first-time divers that take classes on Saipan. The same is true for the rest of the CNMI and somewhat so for Guam. While boat dives are available, you can still drive to some awesome dive sights, like Grotto . A cavern dive to open ocean is great. If you go outside, you will need a guide as it is very easy to get turned around outside and lose track of the tunnel back in.

• 15.207943 145.718437 1 Aquasmith ( Across from DFS ), ☏ +1 670 233-5055 . American/Chamorro/Japanese dive Instructors Dive shop (Scuba diving/Skin diving/Spearfishing).  
• Tripper's Tours , ☏ +1 670 285-MIKE (6453) (6453) . Canadian dive guide/instructor/underwater photographer & videographer with 15 years' experience, including 7 on Saipan.  
• Dive Saipan . Korean dive shop  
• Speedy Tertle . Russian dive shop  
• G.O.D.I. , ☏ +1 670 287-0705 . Dive Shop. Russian-, Japanese- and English-speaking.  

For more detailed descriptions of individual dive sites in Saipan, see the Dive sites of Saipan article.

You may also want to check out one or more of the 5 golf courses. Two were designed by Greg Norman, one by Larry Nelson and another by Graham Marsh. The other course is considered a "local" course. There is also a 9-hole course that is great for beginners.

Recently, Segway of Marianas has started renting out Segway Personal Transporters for use in exploring downtown Garapan at reasonable rates.

The Saipan Hash House Harriers meet every Saturday at 3:30PM at the Bank of Guam parking lot in Garapan to run, hike, jog, climb, and otherwise trek through jungle, swamps, mountains, and other terrain. It's usually a great way to meet people and see a side of island life you might not catch otherwise.

Trekking and other land-based activities are available on the island. 15.150656 145.790489 2 The Forbidden Island , originally occupied by evil spirits and now a bird sanctuary, can be reached by an hour's hike from the edge of the town of Kagman on the east coast. Take a snorkel kit to enjoy the diving area between the island and shore.

Most trekking activities will require a guide.

• 15.265014 145.788372 3 Marianas Trekking , Mariana Resort and Spa , ☏ +1 670 322-0770 . Mountain Bike Tours, ATV Tours, and Kayak Tours and all of it is done completely first rate. The guides are super friendly, the equipment is good, and the fun factor and local knowledge is definitely better than anything you could do on your own.  

Saipan finally has a multiplex theatre run by Wallace Theaters. Now with first run movies with Dolby Digital sound.

There are many opportunities for shopping in Garapan. The 15.20962 145.717808 1 DFS Galleria is a large shopping center that offers duty free shopping with low tax. 15.210885 145.718175 2 Star Sands Plaza is the largest souvenir and island lifestyle store on island where U.S retail brand outlet Everblue store can be found. ABC STORES has two Saipan branches with an initial inventory that includes stocked grocery, souvenirs, drugs and cosmetics, ABC has grown to carry anything a tourist would need. There is also a popular local department star called 15.210339 145.717392 3 Joeten in Garapan that offers unique goods and items. The city of Garapan offers a variety of shops like The Athlete's Foot and more.

Duty Free Galleria, in the center of Garapan, has the top name brands and fashions available for high prices (but supposedly lower rates than in Tokyo). Locally made crafts are available in some stores on the islands, but check first to make sure the items were not manufactured in the Philippines, Thailand , or Indonesia .

There is a tiny branch of 15.174595 145.718377 4 Bestseller Books , packed full of the latest titles as well as magazines and travel guides, in the Joeten Susupe shopping center. Music And , further south on Beach Road, carries discs by local musicians.

One of the classic adventures on island is a bike tour done by Marianas Trekking up on the North Coast. The guides take you up by van to the top of Suicide Cliff and then you can ride down, with stops at all of the historical sites, and a snorkeling stop at the Blue Grotto. The tour breaks for lunch at Mariana Beach and ends at the Mandi Asian Spa. It is a treat.

Many nice bakeries exist in and around Garapan and local breakfast places are within walking distance of the main hotel area. Seafood from the local street markets is understandably very fresh.

Commercial chains on Saipan include Hard Rock Cafe, Tony Roma's, McDonald's, KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and Subway. Vegetarian options are possible to find as well. For self-catering options, try one of the Joeten supermarkets for fruits and vegetables, some locally grown.

• Canton Restaurant , ☏ +1 670 234-7236 . Fantastic Chinese food and excellent service. Delicious roast duck and excellent steamed parrotfish. Oldest Chinese restaurant on the island.  
• Coffee Care , Capitol Hill . Has excellent coffee and some very good homemade pasta dishes, sandwiches, soup, and desserts.  
• Ebisuya , Susupe . Fresh bread, sandwiches, sushi, and homemade soup.  
• Esko's . One of the few local places catering locally made treats dating back to the Spanish era. Excellent place to experience the real taste of the Marianas.  
• Himawari , Garapan . Sushi, bread, pastries, and handmade fresh noodle.  
• Wild Bill's Bar & Grill . Great omelets, hash browns, and pancakes.  
• Winchell's . For donuts and coffee.  
• Bobby Cadillac's . A casual deli and pizza spot with a bar. Hot pastrami on rye with melted Swiss cheese!  
• Hong Wan ( On Beach Road, central Garapan ), ☏ +1 670 233-7259 . Sichuan, Shandong, and Pekingese cuisine. mid-range .  
• Ubu ( On Micro Beach Road, central Garapan ), ☏ +1 670 233-8701 . 11:30-14:30, 18:30-23:00 . Japanese cuisine. It's a branch of a restaurant in Tokyo, so it's fairly authentic. mid-range .  
• Herman's Modern Bakery and Tan Marikita's Cafe . The first bakery and cafe in Saipan, making traditional and American breads.  
• Coffee Care Saipan , Capitol Hill road , ☏ +1 670 323 5282 , [email protected] . Call or email for a ride. A great place to eat or enjoy some fine coffee.  
• Thai House , Garapan ( next to the Cabrera Center ), ☏ +1 670 235 8424 (for a ride) .  
• The Spicy Thai Noodle Place ( in San Antonio next to the Thailand Food Store ), ☏ +1 670 235 8603 . Has excellent Thai food  
• Giovanni's , Garapan ( at the Hyatt Hotel ). Offers the best Sunday Brunch in the Pacific for $34.00. Reservations are a must. The Hyatt also has a daily buffet lunch for $20.  
• Java Joe's ( across from the Joten/Pharmacy building in DAN DAN ). A very simple, yet outstanding little coffee shop. With a big selection on coffee, lattes, and smoothies.  

• Karaoke/Hostess Bars abound in Garapan all of which allow ample drinking opportunities if one is so inclined.
• Oleai Beach Club . A great 'sunset' bar and lunch spot on the beach in San Jose Village. It's popular with the locals because of their lunchtime $1 Taco Special.  

If you like to run, drink beer or both, there is an active chapter of the Hash House Harriers ( a drinking club with a running problem ). The Saipan Hash House Harriers meet every Saturday at the Bank of Guam building in Garapan at 3:30PM in Winter, and 4PM in Summer. Join the Hash if you'd like to meet people from Saipan, see some of the lesser known areas of the island, and enjoy a bit of outrageous partying. The cost is US$10 per person for the run, all the beer, soda and junk food you can consume.  

For those with a different idea of 'fun', there are plenty of night clubs, strip joints, karaoke bars and massage parlors.

Most of Saipan's accommodation caters to package tourists. Rates are steep during Japanese holiday seasons but equally steeply discounted outside them. Internet bookings can regularly find rates below $60 per night, depending on the season.

• 15.19279 145.716561 1 Gold Beach Hotel , Garapan .  
• 15.1584 145.703341 2 Saipan World Resort , Beach Rd, Susupe , ☏ +1 670 234-5900 . Susupe. Massive hotel with all the facilities you'd expect set on a beautiful beach. The best thing to do here is to borrow a kayak (free), paddle out to the rusting tank hunks a few hundred meters offshore, tie up your boat and dive in to see the corals and fish lurking nearby. World resort stay includes free usage of water park. From $195 per night.  
• 15.216209 145.717665 3 Hyatt Regency Saipan , P.O. Box 5087, Capitol Hill Rural Branch , ☏ +1 670 234 1234 , [email protected] . 5 star hotel with 325 rooms and suites. Set on the beach front and amidst tropical gardens. The hotel has a pool bar, a beach bar and a spa.  
• 15.214537 145.716774 4 Fiesta Resort and Spa Saipan , ☏ +1 670 234-6412 . Coral Tree Avenue, Garapan. Located in the heart of Saipan's Tourism district, on the white sands of Micro Beach, near shopping centers and nightlife, the Fiesta Resort and Spa, Saipan is a leading resort in the Northern Mariana Islands.  

Many hotels and restaurants on Saipan now offer free wireless internet access to customers that bring their own laptops, including Coffee Care, McDonalds, Wild Bill's in Garapan, Java Joe's in Dandan, and Fiesta Resort and Spa Saipan in Garapan. La Moda Isla in Garapan offers free wifi in its snack bar area.

• Information Technology Center , Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, Susupe. The best place to get online on Saipan.
• Managaha Island . A small island sheltered in a lagoon, this is Saipan's best spot to snorkel. There are even some introductory scuba trails laid out in rope on the sea bed, which also make for great snorkeling sightseeing tours. You have to pay for the boat ride out, but it usually includes lunch. There are amenities out on the island. It takes about 15 minutes to walk completely around the island. It really is a great place to snorkel. Some snorkel and dive operators will offer rice or fish food to feed the fish, but this is unhealthy for both the reef and the fish and good tour operators will not do this. In addition, feeding the fish means that you will see a lot of the same kind of fish (often convict tangs), and miss out on many other colorful and interesting fish.
• Tinian Island is just three miles away across the Saipan Channel.

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Saipan Travel Guide: Discover a Hidden Gem of the Mariana Islands

Hafa Adai! My name is Luke Scott Fernandez, better known on Instagram as @lostwithlukes . I am 24 years old, born and raised on the island of Guam. I will be sharing my experiences and time on the wonderful island of Saipan which is a neighboring island of Guam. Like Guam, Saipan is part of the chain of islands called the Mariana Islands located in Micronesia.

Saipan is home to two major indigenous Pacific Islander groups: CHamorus and Carolinians. It uses US currency and the main languages used in Saipan are English, CHamoru and Carolinian. My first trip to Saipan was in 2018. I only spent four days there but it was packed with adventure!

After those four days, I was hooked. I would come back every month to visit the friends I made and to experience the magical island of Saipan again and again. In that short time of four days, I hit many touristy sites and did a lot of hikes such as Bird Island, Forbidden Island, Mt. Tapochau and El Toro.

I was so amazed by the fact that despite how close Saipan was to Guam, the water, sand, land and sea were all so different. I made so many great memories in those jam-packed four days which only made me crave for more and that is why I constantly went back to Saipan for more visits.

Why Saipan Should be on your Bucket List

The best way to describe Saipan is that it’s one of the many gems in the Mariana Islands. Saipan’s beaches, waters and sunsets are unlike any other. Truthfully, Saipan has some of the best sunsets I have ever seen in my life. Though the Mariana Islands are close together, they each differ in history, geography, culture and people which makes them all unique.

Saipan is a wonderful place to visit and it’s a world of its own that is rooted in culture, community and family. My favorite place in Saipan is Managaha Island, a smaller island off of Saipan. You can get there easily by taking a 10-15 minute boat ride. When you first arrive you will be blown away!

Managaha is special to me because it takes you away from the main island and all you do is hangout, relax, read, sunbathe, swim and eat: there is no sense of urgency or time pressure whatsoever. In my opinion, the water is clearer and the sand is whiter in comparison to that of the main island.

6 Best Things To Do in Saipan

1. take a boat tour to the beautiful managaha island.

A little island off of Saipan with the whitest sands and clearest waters, Managaha Island is a magical place and is a must-visit when in Saipan. Day trips can be made there by scheduled tour boats. I suggest only taking a half-day trip there and then spending the rest on the main island.

When you take a boat tour to Managaha Island, bring your own food, drinks, towels, swimwear, sunscreen, hats, etc. Don’t forget to pick up your own trash, and it doesn’t hurt to pick up the trash that isn’t yours as well.

2. Start a New Day with a Hike to Forbidden Island

Forbidden Island is a cool hike down to this little flat topped island off the shores of Saipan. It’s a great way to start the day since the sun rises in that area. If you do hike all the way down to Forbidden Island, make sure you bring snorkel gear, a towel and water. You will be snorkeling in no time!

3. See Hundreds/Thousands of Birds at Bird Island

Bird Island can be appreciated on top of the designated lookout or you can hike down to Bird Island for some beach fun. The hike is fairly easy but just be cautious of your surroundings as you could fall off the ledge. The island houses thousands of birds. You can often see them flying around the island.

Tip: Don’t fly your drone near Bird Island as the birds will try and chase after your drone. Bring water, snorkels, snacks and a towel if you plan on making it a beach day at the end of the hike (which I recommend).

4. Hike down to “Old Man by the Sea” Beach

Old Man by the Sea is a fun hike! You go through a bit of jungle and then enter a beach area where the rock formation nearest to the seashore is in the shape of an old man. Many locals “kiss the old man” for photo opportunities. Bring a towel and water for a little beach relaxation.

5. Swim and Snorkel around the Grotto Seacave

The Grotto is pretty well known for being a seawater cave that has a deep connecting underwater tunnel to the ocean. If you are looking to swim at the surface level of the cave then bring a snorkel and some fins. Disclaimer: do not try to freedive the Grotto if you are not a highly trained professional

6. Trek up Mt. Tapochau for Panoramic Views

Mt. Tapochau is a great place to see the whole island. When you get to the very top you can see Saipan from end-to-end. It’s a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset. Mt. Tapochau is also a great hike if you like steep mountain hikes, but you can also drive up to the top as well. Note: wind speed is strong at the top of the mountain so I don’t advise flying a drone.

My Favorite Memories from Saipan

My favorite memories from Saipan would be going to Managaha Island and spending most of the day there then making my way to Micro Beach or Mt. Tapochau to watch the gorgeous sunset over the island. Believe me when I tell you that the sunsets in Saipan are unlike any other. The island is pure magic, and I always enjoy myself whenever I get a chance to go back.

I could go on about Managaha, but it’s because this island radiates a magical aura that somehow leaves me amazed by how something so close to the main island of Saipan can feel so far away. The island is perfect with white sands and the clearest waters. I have yet to experience the sunset or sunrise on Managaha but I hope to on my next trip back.

Mt. Tapochau is another magical place because when you get to the very top of the island you can see the two ends of Saipan which is the coolest thing ever! The drive up there is a bit weird because there is a certain point where the road becomes dirt and potholes, but just drive slowly. It’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset and see the colors of the island change.

Warm & Welcoming Locals of Saipan

The culture in Saipan is deeply rooted in family and community much like nearby Guam. There is never a time when you don’t see people gathered together with good food, music and drinks – whether it’s at someone’s house, at one of the many fantastic restaurants or at the best local beach.

The community in Saipan is warm and welcoming: everyone is more than willing to show island hospitality as long as you return the favor. The local way of living is much like how other folks around the world live everyday, but the only difference is that it’s the island version of everyday living!

People have 9-5 jobs, go home to their families and face everyday issues like the rest of folks. Like Guam, Saipan’s everyday living might be slower than the rest of the world but outdoor activities such as running, hiking and swimming are great pastimes to experience the island in unique ways.

Best Restaurants to Try in Saipan

1. the shack – beachside cafe with great food.

The Shack is a little restaurant that caters to both vegetarians and vegans! They have a great mix of healthy foods such as smoothies, acai bowls, bbq plates, sushi plates and more. My personal favorites are the acai bowls and the nutella pancakes, which always makes breakfast better. They are open in the mornings and afternoons. It’s a must-try when coming to Saipan!

2. Everest Kitchen – For the Best Napalese Cuisine

A Napalese and Mediterranean style restaurant, Everest Kitchen is a great place for a lunch buffet. I personally go for the buffet but they do tend to fill up fast – trust me! If you do decide to dine there, bring cash. They are open until 2pm. I would suggest using Facebook for restaurant updates.

3. Caravan of Food – Authentic Middle Eastern

The Caravan is a Middle Eastern style restaurant and bakery that serves a great selection of healthy soups, salads and more. I always get their falafels and hummus whenever I dine there. The portion sizes are pretty big and will leave you full. When dining in or taking away, bring cash. They are open from 8am to 3pm. Again, I suggest using Facebook for restaurant updates. 

4. Surf Club Restaurant – Amazing Sunset Views

Surf Club Restaurant is a cool place for lunch or dinner. A mix of American and local cuisine, they have options for all. Surf Club has both outdoor and indoor dining. I recommend going for sunset when they have live music. It’s also a hotel with a comfortable and homey atmosphere by the beach.

5. Spicy Thai – Best Thai Food in Saipan

Spicy Thai is a must when visiting Saipan if you are craving Thai. I personally go there for the dinner buffet and my favorite dish is Pad Thai. Spicy Thai is also open for lunch and they have great vegetarian selections. They also offer indoor and outdoor dining. When dining in or taking away, bring cash. They are open from 11am to 9pm. Check Facebook for updates.

6. Himawari Restaurant – On-the-Go Meals

Himawari is a three-in-one consisting of a store, restaurant and hotel. If you are looking for on-the-go meals for a day of adventure, then this is the place to go. They offer a variety of seafood plates, soups and pastries. You can dine in at the restaurant side of Himawari. You definitely won’t regret it!

Visit Saipan for at least Seven Days

If you are planning to visit Saipan, stay for at least seven days. There are so many great adventures to have in Saipan and there is lots to explore. Take it slow and don’t try to pack every hike, beach, etc. into one single day. Enjoy the island and take your time to experience it to the fullest.

For me, coming to Saipan is like entering another world/bubble within the Mariana Islands. Saipan is so unique, much like all the other neighboring islands. From the friendly locals, to the great hikes, to the amazing food – I always leave Saipan wanting to come back in the not too distant future.

Need to Know Before you Go

Some key tips before visiting Saipan would be reading more on the island itself. Find local businesses to support beforehand and plan your trips around some of the annual island festivals. You can find more information about Saipan on their tourism website www.mymarianas.com . More tips:

• Respect locals 
• Listen to locals 
• Pick up trash even if it’s not yours 
• Leave a place as you found it if not in better condition 
• Use reef safe sunscreens 
• Bring reusable drinking containers 
• Bring reusable bags 
• Don’t be afraid to try new foods 
• Shop and invest in locally owned businesses.

BY LUKE SCOTT FERNANDEZ IG: @LOSTWITHLUKES WWW.LOSTWITHLUKES.COM

Author:  Luke Scott Fernandez

Luke Scott Fernandez is a local photographer from the island of Guam. As a homegrown native of Guam and proud Pacific Islander, the ocean is something he has always felt connected to. It has been a source of inspiration for him time and time again.

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" Saipan , as the capital, is the largest and most populated island in The Marianas."

This tropical paradise offers beautiful white sand beaches with crystal clear water and pure, fresh air. Warmth is in the air and in the people you will meet. It is a throwback to a relaxed lifestyle coupled with modern hotels, incredible sights, adventurous activities, and shopping. Garapan is the epicenter of activities with many restaurants, bars, and shopping options.

A Magical Destination

Saipan is located about 120 miles (190 km) north of Guam and 5 nautical miles (9.3 km) northeast of Tinian, from which it’s separated by the Saipan Channel. Saipan is about 12 miles long and 5.5 miles wide. It’s the principal island and major commercial center of the archipelago.

Immerse Yourself

Throughout the year, a variety of festivals celebrate Chamorro, Carolinian, and international cultural traditions through song, dance, crafts, and food. Lively markets are famous for delicious traditional foods, while also showcasing local arts and crafts. Be sure to visit The Marianas Calendar to see which local events are happening during your stay.

Garapan, the Epicenter of Activities

Garapan, newly renovated in 2024, lies at the heart of Saipan and boasts new, modern resort hotels, restaurants, and beaches worthy of a spot on your social media platforms. Experience a blend of local and fusion cuisines at one of the many restaurants, cozy hole-in-the-wall bars, and vibrant nightlife, all within Garapan.

Saipan Has Nearly 4,000 Years of History

Discover saipan.

Get ready for some interactive fun with our map showcasing historical sites, dive spots, hotels, local businesses and more! Dive in and start planning your adventure today!

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10 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN SAIPAN (Plus FREE Attractions)

The Northern Mariana Islands is a commonwealth of the United States composed of 15 islands dotting the northwestern part of the Pacific Ocean that is surrounded by Japan to the north, Guam to the south, Hawaii to the west, and the Philippines to the east. Of these 15 islands, Saipan is the biggest (and the second biggest of the greater Marianas Group, next only to Guam). Only 23 km long and 8 km wide, it can be easily explored, perfect for those seeking a quiet, relaxing tropical holiday.

Tourism is one of the biggest drivers of its economy, so visitors are well-taken care of and sites are well-maintained. Because all attractions here are tourist-ready and the size of the island doesn’t demand a lot of transportation options, renting a car makes the most sense if you’re on a budget. But if you wish to have a better understanding of these places, you may also hire a travel agency or tour operator.

If you plan your way around Saipan, it is easy to find incredible things to do that does not cost anything. As simple as watching the dramatic sunset from the beach will already give you a much needed dose of wonder. But here are some of the island’s most important destinations (some of which can be enjoyed for FREE).

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Bird Island (FREE)

Located at the northeastern coast side of the Saipan, this island is known as a sanctuary for birds (hence the name, duh). From the airport, this was also our first stop in our first day of exploration.

Many people we talked to said that the best way to appreciate the island is from a far. There is an easy look out just a few walks away from the main road access where you can have a view of the whole island with the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop.

For the more adventurous, you can find a trail hidden just before the viewpoint, going down to the beach.

2. Grotto Dive Site

Probably one of the most famous spots to visit in the Northern Mariana Islands, this underwater cave (connected to the open ocean) was awarded as the second best diving spot in the world by Dive Magazine. That’s something!

Accessing this famous cavern will require a bit of a physical endurance. You’ll have to go down (and eventually go back up) 112 flight of stairs to reach the tip of the diving spot. The water here is hypnotic. The deep blue blanket is accented with a “spotlight” coming from the end of the cave, illuminating the coral and limestone formations below the surface.

Cliff diving, snorkeling, free diving and scuba diving are the main activities you can do in the Grotto. It is relatively an easy snorkeling spot, but it is heavily advisable to swim here with a guide (for non expert divers) which you can avail from local travel agents (check Marianas Trekking or Marianas Sports Club). A big warning sign at entry point made this very obvious.

3. Forbidden Island (FREE ACCESS)

Known as a favorite hiking and adventure spot for visitors and locals, the Forbidden Island is a must visit. Although not really forbidden, this trip is not for everyone.

In order to reach the island, you will have to trek a 30min to 40min steep path down from the main road. There are overlooking stops in between the hike where you can appreciate the view of the island along with the crashing waves surrounding it.

Once you reach the island, there are several clear tide pools where you can swim and snorkel (some also come here to have a picnic). Aside from these tide pools, you can also visit a cave called as the Hidden Forbidden where you can find a small cold tide pool. Because the waves are unpredictable, swimming here will require an extra amount of caution.

Note: wear hiking or aqua shoes when accessing the caves. It is surrounded by sharp limestone pathways. Like the grotto, if you are not familiar with the place, or not an expect hiker, it is strongly advisable to hire a guide (check out the packages from Marianas Trekking)

4. Garapan Street Market (FREE ENTRANCE)

Every Thursday from 5pm till 9pm, the Garapan Fishing Base gets transformed into a street market that offers local and international dishes and showcase vendors selling local handcrafted products.

We saw a lot of Filipino dishes being sold at the market. My favorite is the longanisa (chorizo) skewers.

Access is FREE, but you have to pay for your food, of course.

5. International Festival of Cultures (FREE ENTRANCE)

An annual 6-consecutive Saturday evening festival that celebrates the diverse culture that builds the Northern Mariana Islands.

This project is headed by the Marianas Visitors Authority which happens between August and September. You can see booth from several Micronesian countries with an emphasis on the Chamorro and Carolinian heritage. You can also see booths from countries such as Japan and even the Philippines.

Located at the Paseo de Marianas in Garapan (Saipan’s main shopping alley), you can partner a visit to this festivity with a side trip of shopping and souvenir hunting.

6. Last Japanese Command Post

Because of the long period of Japanese occupation, you can still feel the strong influence from their northern neighbors and remnants from that period. A good example is the number of Japanese memorials around, including the Last Japanese Command Post. An important historical WWII site located at the base of the Suicide Cliff. This part-cave part-bunker is the last stronghold by the Japanese military forces before the American took full control of Saipan.

You can see holes (and some bullets) created by the exchange of fires between the two countries battling for the territory.

7-8. Suicide Cliff and Banzai Cliff (FREE)

The Suicide Cliff and Bazai Cliff are two separate locations but have an almost similar dark history to it. They are both located at the northern part of the Island.

When we visited these place, it gave a bit of a creepy and sad vibe. The history of these places are rooted on a bloody ending for thousands Japanese civilians and soldiers at the end of WWII. Instead of being caught alive the Americans, they chose to jump from the cliff and end their lives (better be dead than be caught!). There are memorials and gravestones dedicated to commemorate this part of history.

Aside from its historical significance, the view of the Pacific Ocean from the look out is amazing as you’ll find yourself standing at the edge of the island.

9. Mt. Tapochau

The highest point on the island, this allows a 360-degree view of the whole island. You will have a full sense of how big this island is and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

We went here riding an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle – 85 USD from Let’s Go) as the last stop of our off-road adventure. But, if you are not into a rocky drive around a muddy and bushy terrain, you can easily go here by renting a car. When you reach the base of the summit, there are stairs for you climb for an easy hike to the peak of the mountain.

10. Managaha Island

Probably the most photographed place in Saipan, Managaha is an uninhabited island where you can swim, snorkel, dive and parasail. Your Saipan visit will not be complete without stepping on its ivory shore.

Compared to the other items in this list, you can’t visit this place without shedding some bucks, but it is ABSOLUTELY WORTH IT. The cheapest way to get here is to just hop on a ferry (25 USD) and enjoy the beach. If you have some spare cash, I would suggest to either rent a snorkel and enjoy the aquatic scene (you can even see some reef sharks), or hop on a speed boat and parasail. We parasailed and saw a family of sea turtles from high above.

Some tips to consider

How to go there : Direct flight from Manila to Saipan via Philippine Airlines

Currency : USD (debit and credit cards are widely accepted)

How to go around : While the most popular means of transport is to rent a car, alternatively you can hire a van from travel agencies or shuttles from hotels.

Shopping : Duty Free is the best place to shop for luxury and branded items while for souvenirs you can visit hypermarkets and shops such as Joeten, Costco and ABC Stores.

Food : You can find budget food starting from 5 USD (street markets) while a more casual and fancy ones can cost from 7 to 25 USD. The Chamorro sausage is a must try and also ……hmmmm…… SPAM with egg and fried rice!

This article is in partnership with My Marianas PH, The Marianas Visitors Authority and Blogapalooza.

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