The Northern Mariana Islands offer the visitor a myriad of attractions, sights and natural phenomenons such as caves, mountains and cliffs. Each island boasts its own unique charms which will undoubtedly appeal to most, regardless of taste. Visit the island of Tinian for some relaxing time away from the tourist hub of Saipan or visit Rota for some natural wonders such as the Toga caves. For something more upbeat and lively, visit Saipan where you will find a wealth of opportunities to learn more about the fascinating culture and indigenous people of the Mariana Islands.

Banadero Caves
Located on Tinian, these caves are the site of the last command post of the Japanese Imperial Army, which were known as Banadero. You will find WWII cannons as well as tanks and artillery which have all been preserved in a limestone cave. Japanese and Korean memorials commemorate those that lost their lives during the fighting as well as acknowledging the crucial role the islands played in the war.

Garapan
Located on Saipan’s west coast, this is the largest town in the Commonwealth. It was levelled during WWII and people resettled there in the 1960s. The town is packed with sushi shops, karaoke clubs and many other attractions catered towards the Japanese tourist. The white sands and turquoise waters of Micro Beach are some of the finest in all of the islands. The WWII Museum, found in the centre of town, is home to a number of exhibitions displaying weapons, uniforms, gas masks and photos from WWII.

Isleta Maigo Fahang and Managha Island
Isleta Maigo Fahang is also known as Bird Island and the two offer beautiful scenery which is untouched and have been turned into nature reserves. Bird Island can be visited in a glass-bottomed boat which offers a glimpse into the deep blue sea.

Laderan Banadero and Puntan Sabaneta
Laderan Banadero also has the unfortunate name of Suicide Cliff, for obvious reasons. If you can get past the name and climb to the top of the hill, you will find spectacular views right across the island. Puntan Sabaneta offers sheer sea cliffs and panoramic views out into the ocean. Both are located on Tinian and offer an excellent option for a daytrip.

Mount Tapochau
This is the highest point on Saipan and offers a 360-degree view of the island. It is quite a climb to the top, but well worth it when you finally make it. The mountain was vital during WWII because of its height and a visit to Saipan is incomplete without a trip, at the very least, to the foot of the historical site.

Northern Marianas Islands Museum of History and Culture
This internationally renowned museum can be found on Saipan and was once the site for the old Japanese hospital. It houses objects which reflect 4,000 years of history and include artefacts that once belonged to the Chamorro and Carolinian people. Other popular exhibits include the Spanish, German, Japanese and US Commonwealth periods as well as a lot of information on the role that the islands played in WWII. There is a permanent collection of gold, pottery and metal items which were recovered from the 1638 shipwreck of the Spanish Galleon Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion.

Rota
The beautiful island of Rota possesses a unique character and charm that never fails to impress its visitors. On the western side of the island, take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear water at Rota's famous Swimming Hole, while the ancient Chamorros stones can be found at the west of the island. You will find dozen’s of species of birds at the Sagua'gaga Seabird Sanctuary and will learn much about indigenous plants at Taisacana's Botanical Gardens and Nature Trail. The Rota Cave Museum is located inside a giant limestone cavern and offers a fascinating insight into the natural formation of the island as well as information on the tribes people who once dominated the area. Pinatang Park is a seawater park with a number of channels out to the open sea and a great place to cool down after a morning’s sunbathing. For those who are brave enough visit the Tonga Cave which is a huge natural cavern housing dozens of stalactites, stalagmites, tunnels and mini caves. Tweksberry Park is brimming with perfectly lined rows of coconut palms while Rota Zoo is home to a wide selection of animals. Sasanhaya Bay boasts a great view of Mount Tapingot (Wedding Cake Mountain) as well as two well-preserved Japanese Cannons.

Saipan
Saipan is the archipelago’s main tourist destination and boasts wonderful natural attractions as well as a number of man-made attractions to ensure a good time is enjoyed by all. Northern Saipan is rich in natural beauty and historical landmarks with limestone caverns connected to the open ocean by underwater passages and a number of peace memorials dedicated to the soldiers who gave their lives during WWII. Central Saipan is home to a stunningly landscaped American Memorial Park, which is ideal for picnics, relaxing, kicking a ball around or exercising. While the south of the island boasts stunning beaches and crystal clear waters as well as the award-winning Saipan Botanical Garden. A trip to Saipan would not be complete without a visit to the immaculate Managaha Island. This untouched island is easily accessible for day trips by glass bottom or speed boats.

Tinian
Tinian is a much less-developed island than Saipan but boasts beautiful scenery and historic sights. The House of Taga can be found near the harbour and was once the home of the island’s legendary Chief Taga. You will find a number of historical artefacts and interesting information on display. The northern end of the island is home to the expansive North Field as well as countless WWII structures such as the Atomic Bomb Pits. You will also find the Blow Holes which features stunning nature and woodlands. In the centre of the island, climb Mount Lasso and be rewarded with scenic views across the entire island. You will also find pristine beaches and an abundance of scuba diving opportunities.

Gamble the night away
Tinian may be a natural paradise, but it is also a haven for gamblers. The Tinian Dynasty Hotel and Casino is home to a 75,000 square foot casino offering a wide array of games such as Roulette, Craps, Black Jack and of course the ever popular slot machines.

Go native with a traditional dinner show
A number of restaurants in Saipan host dinner shows with traditional Polynesian music and dance. Dinner is usually included in the price as well as the opportunity to participate in some of the performance.

Indulge yourself at a spa
Visitors looking to indulge themselves with aromatherapy and other relaxing activities will find a whole host of spas across the islands. Treatments include massages, wraps and beauty therapy.

See what lies beneath in a submarine tour
An underwater adventure onboard a real submarine is on offer in Saipan. Visitors can experience a 45 minute excursion 30 meters below the surface of the lagoon of Saipan. It is safe for the entire family and ensures the sighting of tropical fish and other animals usually only seen in an aquarium.

Watch the sun set over dinner
There are a number of cruises available from the ports of every island which fine dining, live music and dancing onboard a swanky yacht. Dinner cruises are perfect for romantic getaways where you can sip champagne while watching the sun set over the island.

Walk on water
Sea walking is a unique way to experience the underwater world, without having to be a qualified diver. You can enjoy this fun-filled attraction whatever your experience as the dive is just three metres deep. Scenes of tropical fish and other sea life will await you and allow to see sights that you otherwise may not see.