Tourist attractions

Mañagaha Island

Region: Saipan Lagoon

Nature

Shallow beach and snorkeling spot with excellent clarity

Banzai Cliff

Region: Northern tip of Saipan

War site / Scenic view

Tragic WWII cliff. Also famous for sunsets over the horizon

Last Command Post

Region: Northern Saipan

War site

Site of final Japanese military headquarters cave with period artillery remains

Obyan Beach

Region: Southern Saipan

Nature

Diving point with white sand and coral reefs

Forbidden Island Trail

Region: Eastern Saipan coast

Hiking / Nature

Thrilling course through steep cliffs and virgin forest overlooking uninhabited island

Tinian Shrine Ruins

Region: Southern Tinian Island

Cultural heritage

Rare historic site with stone worship hall from Japanese rule era remaining mostly intact

Tinian North Field Ruins

Region: Tinian Island

War site

Runway from which atomic bomb-carrying Enola Gay took off still exists

Rota Blue Cave

Region: Rota Island

Nature / Diving

Blue world with sunlight filtering in. Advanced diving spot

Latte Stone Ruins

Region: Rota Island

Cultural heritage

Residential foundations from Taga Dynasty megalithic culture standing in rows

Garapan Promenade

Region: Downtown Saipan

Modern architecture / Shopping

Seaside walkway where restaurants and souvenir shops gather

Suggested itineraries

Saipan Highlight 3 Days

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Mañagaha Island, Banzai Cliff, Taste of the Marianas

Classic course efficiently touring beaches and war sites for short holidays

WWII Historical Saipan & Tinian 4 Days

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Last Command Post, Tinian North Field Ruins, Tinian Shrine Ruins

Learning trip tracing Pacific War footsteps with guided historic sites

Island Hopping 7 Days

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Saipan, Tinian, Rota, Forbidden Island Trail

Comprehensive tour of three islands covering diving, trekking, and cultural experiences

Travel tips

  • Direct flights from Japan are often seasonal, so check flight schedules in advance
  • ESTA or U.S. visa required as it's U.S. territory
  • Voltage is 110V, 60Hz, Japanese Type A plugs usable as is
  • Rain comes in squall patterns and doesn't last long, but folding umbrella is convenient
  • English is understood, but greeting with 'Håfa Adai' gets warmer welcome
  • Strong sunlight requires sunscreen, reef-safe products recommended for coral protection
  • Right-hand traffic, rental cars available with international driving permit
  • No state tax makes branded goods and cigarettes cheap, but be careful of carry-home limits
  • Rashguard wear reassuring at beaches for jellyfish prevention
  • No public buses, so taxis or rental cars typical for island transportation