Northern Mariana Islands Activities

The Northern Mariana Islands may not boast dozens of theme parks or exciting children’s museums, but they are home to some wonderful wildlife, stunning beaches and warm waters. Kids will love getting close to nature at one of the many beaches and parks found all across the islands, while for those looking to get closer to animals; you will be in your element at Saipan Zoo.

Beaches
Children love spending time at the beach and Saipan’s beaches are regarded as the best in Micronesia. The most popular beach is Micro Beach, a one kilometre stretch of white sand with a play park and water sport facilities for children. Lau Lau Beach is great for swimming, while Obyan Beach offers spectacular views of Tinian Island. The island of Tinian boasts a wide array of water sports, suitable for any age group, and many places for family picnics.

Saipan Zoo
Saipan Zoo is a great place to bring the kids to teach them about indigenous animals as well as animals from all across the world. You will find lions, tigers, monkeys, black bears, racoons, foxes and parrots as well as many more animals each in their own enclosures housing information and fun facts. There is also an on-site café and souvenir shop for some treats when you have finished. Phone: +1 670 322-5118

Snorkelling
While your children will be too young to scuba dive, snorkeling in the shallow waters will allow them to see many wonderful sights and dozens of species of tropical fish. The warm waters are incredibly welcoming and full of fascinating finds. Always make sure you heed instructions with regards to undercurrents and safety.

Water sports can be found in abundance across all of the islands, especially the three main ones: Saipan, Tinian and Rota. Jet skiing is popular as it allows speed freaks to make the most of the ocean and certainly gets the adrenalin pumping. The gentle trade winds that blow inland offer good conditions for windsurfers. The winds blow in all year regardless of the time of year. For those who would like to experience panoramic views, parasailing offers a unique opportunity to see the islands from the 30 metres above land. You are guaranteed never to have a view like it and it takes no experience to try it. Water skiing however requires a little bit of experience otherwise the chances are that you will never stand up. Once you are standing however, you will be sure to enjoy an adrenaline pumping ride.

The Northern Mariana Islands offer world class scuba diving with an abundance of coral reefs, caves and caverns, tropical sea life and fascinating wrecks. Saipan boasts over 18 different dive sites, including ‘The Grotto’, which was voted the number two cavern diving site in the world. There is a steep climb down of 103 steps leading to an impressive underground cavern with a high dome ceiling. The waters of Tinian are full of WWII relics which make for fascinating dives while Rota is home to a number of wrecks to explore including a Japanese WWII freighter. All three islands offer excellent snorkeling for those who cannot dive.

The islands offer a multitude of opportunities for golf fanatics. Saipan’s courses offer something for every level of golfer, ranging from beginner to professional. The courses all boast stunning ocean views and most have excellent facilities. You do not have to be a member to enjoy a round of golf on any courses across all of the islands, although booking in advance is advised.

Dining on any of the Northern Mariana Islands is an experience in itself. Each island offers visitors a unique dining experience ranging from cheap local snacks to top-class service and menus. Saipan is the most fully developed of all the islands and as such has the widest selection of restaurants and cuisine available.

Local specialties include kelaguin, which is a chewy mixture of diced chicken and shredded coconut as well as thin slices of raw coconut dipped in a peppery sauce.
Apigigi, is a great way to finish a meal as it is a local dessert made with coconut and wrapped in banana leaves

On Saipan, you will find Chinese, French, Italian, Japanese, Thai and American cuisine at a variety of restaurants, including some world-class ones. Seafood is found in abundance with romantic beachfront settings and trendy new restaurants available. If you prefer to ‘go native’, you will find a number of local establishments serving excellent cuisine at very reasonable prices located throughout the island.

Tinian has escaped mass tourism and therefore there is no fast-food or worldwide chains in sight. Instead you will find beachside restaurants offering a variety of sea food as long as some well established local restaurants offering a whole host of delights.

Rota, much like Tinian, is under-developed and therefore much more suited to local restaurants, with a hint of international offerings. Restaurants are uniquely designed and offer excellent local service. You will find a number of seafood restaurants alongside cheaper establishments and beachside bars.

The Northern Mariana Islands are not renowned for their shopping opportunities and if you are hoping to come back with bags bursting with souvenirs, clothing and other indulgencies, you may be slightly disappointed.

There are however a number of specialty products to be found here such as wishing dolls, coconut masks, coconut-crab decorations and woodcarvings. These are all unique to the islands and make great souvenirs or gifts for those back home. They can be bought at one of a number of souvenir shops and local markets.

Saipan is the best island for shopping as you’ll find a selection of shops and even a small shopping mall. There is jewellery, silver, designer watches and clothing available here which can all be purchased for a very good price. Electrical products and perfume can be bought duty free at a very good price.

Tinian and Rota escaped tourist development; therefore you will find no shopping malls, but plenty of local souvenirs. These are not the ideal destinations for shopaholics and those looking for designer goods, but you will find enough quality products that will be a happy reminder of your holiday.

Shopping hours are generally 08:00 until 21:00 Monday to Sunday, although you’ll find that some of the smaller establishments are closed on Sundays.