Northern Mariana Islands

The palm-fringed beaches of Saipan’s Managaha Island

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Enjoying the view at Pau Pau Beach in Saipan

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Exploring an underwater wreck in the Philippine Sea

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Rugged terrain leading to Saipan's Forbidden Island

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A fisherman and his son hauling in the day's catch at sunset

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A colorful boat bobbing in the Philippine Sea

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Sunbathing on a rocky white sand beach

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Watching the setting sun at the ocean's edge

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Major Airports:

Northern Mariana Islands (GSN)

Endless ocean views, endless island fun

The Northern Mariana Islands are an easy warm-weather escape northeast of Guam. Once you’re on the islands of this U.S. commonwealth, the only difficult decision you’ll have to make is whether to sunbathe on a beautiful beach, try your luck at a casino, play golf with dazzling views of the Philippine Sea or go scuba diving in a World War II shipwreck. Then again, there is no reason why you can’t do them all.

Saipan Aerial Tour

Though the Northern Marianas consists of 15 islands in total, the most popular are Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. Saipan, the largest of the Northern Mariana Islands, has an area of 115.4 square kilometers. It takes less than an hour to traverse the island by car. Start on the sand – specifically, the blazing white shoreline of Micro Beach in Saipan, popular among locals and visitors alike. Then, head to the many, many others offering lush tropical scenery and a whole range of activities. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s always cliff jumping, cavern dives and night diving.

Northern Mariana’s resorts and country clubs are more than just sleek beach fixtures; they are gateways to the territory’s vibrant outdoor life and urban spirit. Resorts arrange hikes to hidden villages, banana boat rides and cliff fishing. Take a windsurfing tour or tee off at one of the golf courses.

The Islands’ storied past – and especially its indigenous Chamorro culture – is very much alive everywhere you look. Archeological sites, prehistoric stone structures and small villages engage you with people, past and present. Spring and summer’s San Vicente Fiesta and San Antonio Festival introduce you to Chamorro and Carolinian food, dance and music.

History buffs will also find the Northern Mariana Islands a trove of exceptionally preserved World War II buildings and posts, including a Japanese lighthouse, bunkers, jails and an abandoned airfield. Banzai and Suicide Cliffs are dramatic testaments to the character of the Chamorro people.

For information on entry procedures, click here.

Saipan Aerial Tour

Fun Fact

The latte stones – stone structures with crescent-shaped tops – found on the Islands are actually ancient support pillars.

Must see places

Managaha Island

This coral islet sitting in Saipan’s lagoon is a mini-paradise with a fascinating history. Snorkeling, scuba diving and sightseeing are all popular here.

Forbidden Island

A hike to the mysteriously-named island off the coast of Saipan is not only not forbidden but recommended, with a bird sanctuary, great snorkeling and a stunning view the pay off.

A tranquil beach scene on Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands

Obyan Beach

The classic idyllic beach, Northern Mariana-style. This is the place on Saipan for serene shelling and cave exploring, but don’t miss the WWII-era bunkers and latte stones lying about.

Flame Tree Arts Festival

A four-day fest on Saipan that celebrates and showcases Northern Mariana’s culture through indigenous dance, food and artwork every spring, just in time for the real flame trees to bloom.