Northern Mariana Islands Travel Guide
Discover Why You Should Visit the Northern Mariana Islands
Why Visit the Northern Mariana Islands?
The Northern Mariana Islands, a chain of 14 islands in the Western Pacific, combine natural beauty, World War II history, and Chamorro and Carolinian cultural heritage. With lush jungles, coral reefs, and striking coastlines, these islands offer a unique and relaxing destination for explorers, divers, and cultural enthusiasts.
Must-Know Facts
Capital/Major City: Saipan
Language(s): English, Chamorro, Carolinian
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Best Time to Visit: December to June (dry season)
Fun Fact: The island of Tinian was the launch site for the atomic bomb missions during World War II
Top Things to Do
Dive the Grotto in Saipan, one of the world’s top cave diving spots
Visit the Last Command Post and WWII memorials
Explore the stunning limestone cliffs of Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff
Relax on Micro Beach and Managaha Island
Hike to Bird Island for breathtaking views and wildlife encounters
Local Culture & Lifestyle
Chamorro and Carolinian traditions influence local festivals, dances, and cuisine. Community and family are central, and many customs revolve around storytelling, respect for elders, and ancestral heritage. Visitors will find a welcoming spirit and a strong pride in identity.
Food & Drink Highlights
Street Food: BBQ chicken, red rice, empanadas, kelaguen
Restaurants: Asian-Pacific fusion, featuring Japanese, Filipino, and Korean flavors
Drinks: Coconut juice, local teas, and imported Asian beverages
Desserts: Apigigi (grilled banana wrapped in coconut leaf), sweet rice cakes
Main Dish & Culinary Symbols
Signature Dish: Chicken kelaguen — grilled chicken mixed with lemon juice, onions, and coconut
Common Ingredients: Coconut, chili, lime, fish, chicken, taro
Culinary Culture: Traditional recipes are passed through generations and often enjoyed during fiestas and celebrations
Symbols & Icons of the Area
Natural Icons: Grotto cave, Bird Island, white sand beaches
Cultural Icons: Latte stones, Carolinian canoes, Chamorro huts
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path
Forbidden Island — a challenging hike and snorkeling spot with dramatic views
Tinian’s House of Taga — massive ancient stone pillars
Rota Island — tranquil and less-developed, great for nature lovers
Blue Hole — a lesser-known dive site teeming with marine life
Shopping & Souvenirs
What to Buy: Handwoven crafts, local spices, shell jewelry, carved wooden items
Where to Shop: Garapan Street Market, Saipan’s DFS Galleria, and local village shops
Getting Around
Public Transport: Limited; most visitors rent cars
Car Rentals: Widely available on Saipan and Tinian
Boats: Used for trips to nearby islets like Managaha
Flights: Small aircraft connect Saipan, Tinian, and Rota
Travel Tips
Respect cultural sites and ask before photographing people
Sundays and holidays may affect business hours
Wear reef-safe sunscreen and respect marine life
Check weather updates, especially during typhoon season
Where to Stay
Budget: Local guesthouses and inns
Mid-range: Boutique hotels and beachfront resorts
Luxury: International hotels in Garapan, Saipan
Unique: Eco-resorts and family-run island lodges
Sample 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Saipan, relax at Micro Beach, explore Garapan
Day 2: Dive the Grotto, visit Banzai Cliff and WWII sites
Day 3: Take a ferry to Tinian, tour the North Field and House of Taga
Day 4: Return to Saipan, shop at local markets, enjoy traditional cuisine
0 Comments