Northern Mariana Islands are often called 'the secret of America,' implying their quite unspoiled nature, and abundant historic sites. Coral reefs, sea fishing, surfing and excellent facilities for passive recreation attract more than 240 thousand tourists a year to these tiny islands.

The island of Saipan may turn into a nightmare for some visitors, as it is filled with tourists and the noise of their camera shutter clicking. Recreational infrastructure is relatively undeveloped and focused rather on those, who love active lifestyle. However, this island is still famous for its charm, an abundance of turquoise waters, white sand and excellent facilities for diving, swimming, and hiking. Saipan is the most popular island for 'historical tourism'. It achieved the fastest growth rates in Micronesia promoting tourism and building new golf courses and many resorts around the island. Tourists and foreign workers now outnumber the indigenous population, and the island has lost many of the features of its Micronesian character. However, Saipan still has everything that attracts tourists: lovely beaches on the western and southern coasts, a lot of scenic spots in the rugged and rocky eastern coast, the hilly hinterland and the majestic cliffs on the north coast.

Garapan, the largest city in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, is the fastest growing city in the region. Almost destroyed during the fighting of World War II and reconstructed in the 1960-s, it is now fully restored and built up with sushi bars, karaoke clubs and other establishments that are clearly targeted at tourists from Japan. The white sands and turquoise waters of Micro beach are considered the finest in the islands. To the north of the beach, there stretches the American Memorial Park, which protects the forest and marsh birds and also serves as a favorite spot for picnics and commemorative events. Here is the Museum of World War II with an exhibition of weapons, uniforms, ammunition, military photos, and other attributes of the time.

Tinian is a sleepy island with a single village, just 2 kilometers to the south of Saipan. It has avoided a major influx of tourists and therefore serves as a good place to 'escape from the benefits of civilization'. The island’s early settlers created the best facilities, which attract visitors. The main attraction of San Jose is the House of Taga, which served as the place of residence of the legendary king of ancient Chamorro. Tinian has several good places for swimming with turquoise waters and white sands. Chulu Beach on the northwest shore of Tinian is the site massive ongoing archaeological excavations. Rota Island lies midway between Saipan and Guam, and it only now begins to 'come out from the shadow' of the big island and develop its recreational infrastructure. Some settlements here still do without traffic lights or shopping centers. The villages are literally 'saturated' with various small destinations. The local Franciscan church Borgia is known for its centennial bell. The island offers a particularly scenic view of Mount Taiping and the harbor. To cover all interesting sites, ask your tour operator for Mariana Islands to prepare a nice circuit.

Northern Mariana Islands are an excellent place for active leisure. One of the most interesting places here is Grotto, a natural cave with underground lakes up to 15 meters deep and tunnels to the open sea. This is also the land of unforgettable festivals. Most of the events are held on Saipan. Popular events are the half-marathon and 10-kilometer-long sea race, held in late January. The Northern Mariana Islands are also known to have a professional baseball team; it is a constant location for the international competition of windsurfers. A lot of festivities include theatrical performances, beauty contests, fishing, various forms of entertainment, sports, and numerous banquets.

See the list of trusted travel agents on Northern Mariana Islands from whom you can request a free quote or preparation of a nice travel plan.
Sunrise on Mariana Islands