Experiences in Northern Mariana Islands
Managaha Island
A small island sheltered in a lagoon that is Saipan’s famous tourist destination. 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.
Forbidden Island
Located at the southeastern part of the island, Forbidden Island can be reached through the village of Kagman (a 4WD vehicle is recommended) and after a 30-40 minutes hike. It’s a little hard to get there but it’s worth it.
Obyan Beach
Obyan (pronounced long O, long B, John) is another large beach that is a favorite for snorkelers, skin divers, swimmers, or beachcombers. As you enter the beach you will find a couple large Japanese WW II gun bunkers. Between the bunkers and just off the beach is an ancient Chamorro village site. Here you will find several latte stones. It is believed that they built their houses on top of these stones. You can walk further inland from the old house site and find a couple interesting small caves. A large paved parking lot with a security guard was recently added. The Obyan area also has nice hiking trails.
Flame Tree Arts Festival
A four-day fest on Saipan that celebrates and showcases Northern Mariana’s culture through indigenous dance, food and art work every spring, just in time for the real flame trees to bloom.
Mt.Tapochao
Climb or drive to Saipan’s highest peak , once a WWII outpost for the Japanese, and see nearly all the Islands of the Northern Marianas at once.
