Saipan Super Practical Guide: Food, Fun, Travel, Shopping, and Accommodation All in One

Saipan, a very cool American visa-free destination, is a perfect holiday island that combines food, fun, entertainment, shopping, and travel. Compared to Tahiti and Maldives, its price performance ratio is off the charts.

The movie “Love is Coming” starring Zhou Dongyu and Tong Liya was filmed in Saipan. With unique trenches and blue holes, first-love-like seas and beaches, love feels particularly comfortable here.

The nearby Managaha Island boasts the most dreamy seven-color seas in the Pacific Ocean, the same beach where “Running Man” and goddesses frolicked.

Huang Bo also filmed a diving blockbuster here with “World” magazine.

This is not only a paradise for vacationers, but also a popular tourist destination for celebrities. Let’s see how to get the most out of Saipan.

1. Temperature and Seasons

The temperature remains around 27℃ year-round. July-August is the rainy season, while August-September is prone to typhoons (but rarely cause any damage). December-February is the dry season. The best time to travel is recommended from December to February of the following year, with less rain and minimal impact on many recreational activities, such as self-driving airplanes and skydiving, which are more affected by weather conditions.

2. Regional Distribution

The capital of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), located in the western Pacific Ocean, with the Philippine Sea to the southwest and the Pacific Ocean to the northeast.

Saipan is mainly divided into three parts: north, south, and jungle.

Northern attractions include: Bird Island, Blue Hole, Japanese Last Command Post, Suicide Cliff (also known as Managaha), etc.

Southern attractions include: Obyan Beach (Coral Beach), Star Sand Beach (Tank Beach), Forbidden Island, romantic lavender purple church, etc.

Jungle attractions include: The highest peak, Crocodile Head Beach, Grotto, etc.

Additionally, two other islands near Saipan are also highlights for travelers: Managaha Island, located slightly north of Saipan’s west side, and Tinian Island, located about 6km south of Saipan.

3. Time Difference

Saipan’s local time (UTC+10) is 2 hours ahead of Beijing time (UTC+8). For example, when it’s 12:00 noon in Beijing, it’s 14:00 in Saipan.

4. Power Outlets

The voltage in Saipan is 110V. The outlets are US-style. Chinese electrical appliances with two-prong plugs can be used directly, but three-prong plugs require an adapter. It’s recommended to bring a plug adapter. Hotel reception desks usually have some, but they are limited in quantity, so it’s advisable to buy a US-standard plug adapter and voltage converter in advance.

5. History

Saipan has been occupied by Spain, Germany, Japan, and the United States. During World War II, defeated Japanese soldiers jumped to their deaths from Suicide Cliff, refusing to become prisoners of war, leaving behind a sea of corpses. Today, Saipan still has many remnants of the battlefields from that era, attracting a large number of Japanese visitors each year to pay their respects.

In 1962, Saipan became the capital of the US Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. In 1975, it reached an agreement with the US to form a commonwealth, becoming a political ally of the US. In 1978, the federal government was established, and a constitution was adopted. In November 1986, through a referendum, it became a US territory, with local government self-governance during a transitional period.

6. Language

The official language is English, and the indigenous language is Chamorro. Due to the large number of Chinese, Korean, and Japanese tourists, most people in Saipan speak Chinese. Even foreigners know some basic Chinese, so communication is not a problem. Additionally, restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions have introductions in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and English. Even with just elementary school level English, you can communicate smoothly.

Visa on Arrival vs. US Visa

Saipan allows visa on arrival, but the overall work pace and efficiency are relatively slow there.

To avoid this, it’s recommended to apply for a US visa in advance (Saipan is a US territory, and holding a US visa allows you to use the fast track for entry, significantly speeding up your entry process).

Entry/Exit/Customs Regulations

Upon entry, you will be required to fill out an I-736 form (Guam and Saipan (CNMI) Visa Waiver Application) and an I-94 form (US Entry/Exit Declaration). Flight attendants will provide these forms on the plane. Use a black pen to fill them out. If you have a US visa, you don’t need to fill out the I-736 form.

Furthermore, the I-94 form will be torn off and attached to your passport. Keep it safe and return it to customs or airport staff upon departure. When filling out the entry registration form, ensure you provide accurate information, such as whether you have a previous US visa record, whether you have been refused a US visa, etc. If customs discovers that you have been refused a US visa and you haven’t answered honestly, you will be deported to China immediately and will have to pay for the flight yourself.

1. Airplane

Saipan only has one airport, located in the south of the island. There are no public buses on the island, so you can choose a taxi or a hotel shuttle service. Most international hotels offer their own hotel bus or taxi service to and from the airport, often free of charge. Consult with your chosen hotel when booking to see if they offer shuttle services.

The airport is about 8km from the city center. A taxi ride to the city center costs around $20. There are many taxis outside the airport terminal. These taxis are metered, with a starting price of $3 and $0.7 for every 0.25 miles.

2. Transportation within the City

Transportation within the city generally includes taxis, buses, and rental cars. (1) Taxi: The starting price is $3, and $0.7 for every 0.25 miles. However, taxis are not as plentiful as in China and aren’t available everywhere. They are usually only found at hotels or airports, and the prices are high. It’s not recommended to take taxis.

(2) Bus: There are buses from the DFS (Duty Free Shop) that travel between hotels and shopping areas in the city center. This is completely free, but the time and routes are fixed, so remember the bus schedule. The buses here are very punctual, and if you miss one, you’ll have to wait for the next one.

(3) Rental car: People aged 21 and above with a Chinese driver’s license can rent a vehicle. Cars drive on the right side of the road, the same as in China. Most roads are smooth, with clear road signs, making it feel easier to drive than the road test at driving schools. There’s no need to worry. Additionally, car rental companies provide free car driving maps and safety road sign guides. Vehicle models mainly include sports cars and off-road vehicles. If you’re only touring the north, renting a convertible sports car is the most eye-catching choice. However, if you plan to explore the south or the jungle, renting a high-performance off-road vehicle is essential.

For travel to Saipan, it’s recommended to book a free-and-easy tour package, which includes round-trip air tickets and hotel accommodation. After arriving on the island, you can book individual tours based on your preferences, or self-drive to various attractions, as most attractions are free and open all day. If you’re in a group, renting a car to explore is also a suitable option.

(I) Managaha Island

Managaha Island is located west of Saipan, a 10-minute boat ride away, and a must-visit spot for Saipan tourists.

The waters are clean, the ocean is crystal blue, making it an ideal snorkeling spot. The beaches are all fine white sand. Deep diving here also provides a chance to see large shipwrecks, surrounded by colorful coral.

There is a $5 entry fee to Managaha Island, plus $20 per person for the round-trip speedboat. The total cost is around $25. The last boat leaves the island at 4 PM, and there’s no time limit for your stay on the island.

1. Banana boat: A speedboat pulls an inflatable banana boat, racing through the ocean. Hold onto the handrails on the side of the boat after it sets off, and you’ll feel like a wild horse galloping on the sea.

2. Parasailing: Sit under the parachute, and the crew will launch you like a kite, with the boat pulling the parachute into the wind, accelerating upward. You’ll instantly rise to a height of several tens of meters with the parachute, incredibly thrilling. Parasailing lets you soar through the air, offering a bird’s-eye view of the entire Managaha Island. Two people can ride together on a parasailing session.

3. Snorkeling

Managaha Island is the best snorkeling spot in Saipan, and it’s free. The seawater is crystal clear, allowing you to see the coral reefs transforming into whimsical colors under the sunlight. You can also dance with various invertebrates, butterfly fish, and angelfish.

4. Jet ski

Similar to domestic jet skis, it’s exciting and fun to drive yourself.

5. Underwater walking

Even if you can’t swim, you can still enjoy underwater walking. Simply put on a special oxygen mask, and you can immerse yourself in the underwater world at a depth of 3-5 meters to admire colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. The entire experience lasts about 40 minutes, with staff guidance. Remember to bring an underwater camera to capture these unforgettable moments.

7. Mermaid submarine: The Mermaid submarine is one of the world’s three largest sightseeing submarines. A ferry boat takes passengers to the sea and then to the submarine. Enter the submarine through a ladder, with a capacity of 40-50 people, 2 people/seat/window. Through the small windows of the submarine, you can quietly observe the rich marine life on the seabed and the remains of World War II.

This is particularly suitable for families with children. While enjoying the wonders of the underwater world, the submarine also plays voice introductions, telling stories of Saipan’s history.

(II) Northern Island Tour

The northern island tour includes Suicide Cliff, Bird Island, Blue Hole, Japanese Last Command Post, etc.

Hotels in Saipan are generally located in the southwest of the island, so those who want to take a northern island tour can choose to rent a car or join a tour group. Since the roads in the north are mostly highways and easy to drive, those who want to rent a sports car to show off can try it out.

1. Bird Island

Bird Island is located in the northeast of Saipan and is named after the numerous birds that inhabit it. Bird Island is scenic, but because it’s a protected area, visitors are not allowed to go ashore. You can only admire the island from a viewing platform not far from Saipan. It’s recommended to bring binoculars for a closer look.

2. Blue Hole

The Blue Hole is located on the northeast corner of Saipan, a natural cave connected to the Pacific Ocean. The Blue Hole is 17 meters deep, reaching a maximum depth of 47 meters, making it the world’s second largest cave diving destination. However, only those with an AOW diving license are currently allowed to dive deep. Those without a license can only snorkel under the guidance of an instructor, or take some beautiful photos near the entrance.

The Blue Hole doesn’t have any shops or things to sell, so you need to bring your own food and water.

3. Suicide Cliff

Suicide Cliff is a cliff located at the northernmost tip of Saipan, with crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean below. During World War II, defeated Japanese soldiers, unwilling to surrender, took their wives and children to the edge of the cliff, shouting “Long live the Emperor” before jumping to their deaths. This is why it’s called Suicide Cliff. Later, the Japanese erected a stone monument here to pray for peace and specially built a statue of Kannon Bodhisattva and a temple. Every year, a large number of Japanese come to Suicide Cliff to pay their respects.

Standing on Suicide Cliff, the crashing white waves of the vast ocean beneath you offer a 360-degree view of the turbulent sea, a stark contrast to the calm west coast of Saipan. It’s said that if you see a sea turtle, you’ll have good fortune!

4. Japanese Last Command Post

The ruins of the Japanese Last Command Post are located at the foot of Suicide Cliff. Tanks, cannons, and other relics of war can be seen everywhere.

The command post was built in a cave behind a large rock at the foot of the cliff, cleverly utilizing the terrain’s barrier function. Therefore, it was hard to detect due to the cover of the cliff in front. There is a World War II memorial nearby, which can also be visited.

5. American Memorial Park

The Memorial Park is located in downtown Saipan, at the northern end of the Ocean Drive. To the left after entering the park is a memorial museum. In front of the museum is a protruding world map. Inside the museum is a souvenir shop selling American military-related souvenirs and hard-to-find American military Zippo lighters, priced at around $30.

Postcards are available for purchase and sending. Postage stamps cost $1.5 each, and there’s a dedicated writing room where you can sit and write postcards.

(III) Southern Island Tour

The southern island tour includes Star Sand (Tank) Beach, Obyan (Coral) Beach, Forbidden Island, etc. Since the roads in the south are mostly mountain roads, it’s best to rent an off-road vehicle for self-driving.

1. Star Sand Beach (Tank Beach)

Tank Beach is located in the southeast of Saipan. American tanks landed here during World War II. The beach has sand that resembles stars, very tiny and requiring a magnifying glass to see their shape, hence the name Star Sand Beach.

2. Forbidden Island

Forbidden Island is located in the southeast of Saipan, a semi-detached island. When the tide is high, Forbidden Island separates from Saipan, but when the tide recedes, parts of the two islands connect.

There is a viewing platform on the mountain near Forbidden Island, offering a panoramic view of the island. There is also a small path leading to Forbidden Island. The scenery along the way is beautiful, but the road is very difficult to navigate. If you want to try an adventure, it’s recommended to find a local to guide you.

3. Obyan Beach (Coral Beach)

The water here is crystal clear and a famous beach diving spot, suitable for different diving levels and no less impressive than Managaha Island. Many locals choose to spend their weekends here.

(IV) Jungle Adventure

Jungle adventures include the highest peak, Crocodile Head Beach, and the Grotto. Off-road vehicles with high performance are required for self-driving to these locations.

1. The highest peak: Mount Tapochau

From the top of the mountain, you can have a 360° view of the entire Saipan. The highest peak is only 473 meters high, but since it’s right next to the world’s deepest Mariana Trench (even if you put the entire Himalayas into it, there would still be over 2,000 meters of space), you could say it’s the “world’s highest peak” in a way.

Standing on the highest peak, you’ll see the Pacific Ocean to the east of Saipan and the Philippine Sea to the west, with Managaha Island in the distance, and the Mariana Trench in the far horizon.

2. Crocodile Head Beach

Crocodile Head Beach is located in the north of Saipan and is named after its resemblance to a crocodile.

Under the Crocodile Head reef, there is a near-circular, millstone-shaped coral reef, with three layers stacked on top of each other, resembling a cake, hence the name “Cake Stone.”

Looking to the left from the Cake Stone, there is another fountain reef. Due to the irregular caves under the reef, when the tide hits, the caves will spout water like whales, creating a unique spectacle.

3. Grotto

The Grotto is located halfway up a mountain in Saipan, a local Catholic holy site. There are towering banyan trees here, a statue of the Virgin Mary on the mountain wall, and locals often come here for baptism and prayer.

To the left of the Virgin Mary statue, there is a well, the only freshwater source on the island. You can scoop up a bucket of water to wash your hands or take a sip, bringing good fortune.

(V) Others

1. Deep-sea fishing, deep-sea trolling: Deep-sea fishing is suitable for people of all ages. Freshly caught fish can be made into sashimi on the spot or taken to a restaurant on the island for processing.

The difference between fishing and trolling is that: Fishing is done with the boat stationary, while trolling is done with the boat moving. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s better to choose fishing.

2. ATV Quad Bikes

ATV quad bikes are available in the central part of Saipan from 09:00 to 17:00. Since ATV quad bikes require a license, you need to bring your driver’s license to operate them.

3. Self-driving plane, co-piloting

Take off from Saipan International Airport with a professional pilot accompanying and guiding you throughout, teaching basic driving knowledge and precautions. After completing your training, perform maneuvers under the pilot’s guidance and land safely.

During the flight, you can see the entire Saipan from above, admiring the northern scenery, Managaha Island, and other famous attractions. After the experience, you will receive a driving experience certificate as a lasting souvenir of your unforgettable journey.

4. Skydiving

Skydiving takes place at Saipan Airport. You can contact the skydiving company directly to make a reservation. Because skydiving is heavily affected by weather conditions, it’s best to book on the first day you arrive in Saipan. If the weather doesn’t permit, you can postpone it to a later date, avoiding missing out on the experience by the time you leave.

There are four heights for skydiving in Saipan: 2400 meters (15 seconds of freefall), 3000 meters (30 seconds of freefall), 3600 meters (45 seconds of freefall), and 4200 meters (60 seconds of freefall). Each jump is accompanied by a one-on-one instructor.

Skydiving process:

The entire process takes about 2 hours, but if the weather is bad, it’s hard to say how long you’ll have to wait, so try not to schedule other plans after skydiving. 1. Make a reservation and pay the deposit three days in advance; 2. After your reservation is successful, a local guide will pick you up from the hotel at the scheduled time (and will safely return you to the hotel after the jump); 3. Upon arriving at the skydiving location, there will be Chinese-speaking interpreters and video introductions on safety precautions; 4. Sign a waiver of liability agreement, and there are lockers to store your belongings; 5. The instructor helps you put on all the equipment; 6. The plane takes off to the predetermined altitude; 7. Jump out of the plane, freefall at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour; 8. Open the parachute and stroll through the clouds; 9. Land safely and receive a certificate.

5. Tinian Island Day Trip

Tinian Island is located south of Saipan. You can take a small plane from Saipan International Airport to get there.

Attractions: Taguan House, Natural Fountains, Atomic Bomb Takeoff Site, etc.

Saipan’s only street food market is only open on Thursday nights, so if you want to experience the street food atmosphere, plan your trip accordingly.

Currently, most tourists in Saipan come from China, Japan, and Korea, so there are many Chinese, Japanese, and Korean restaurants on the island. A well-known Chinese restaurant is Xinqiao Restaurant (where “Running Man” visited for a meal while recording).

1. Coconut crab

Coconut crab meat is delicious and nutritious. The eight legs taste like lobster tails, with a unique coconut flavor.

2. Chili peppers, chili sauce

Saipan chili peppers are the second hottest in the world. You can find chili sauce in two levels of spiciness at various stores in Saipan. One is regular spicy, and the other is extra spicy. Some stores have chili sauce samples. It’s best to try the regular spicy first to see if you can handle it.

3. Souvenirs

Saipan has many small souvenirs, such as various cookies and chocolates, which make great gifts for friends and family back home.

Noni tea is made from noni fruit, a local specialty of Saipan, with the effect of lubricating the intestines and clearing heat. There is also noni soap, made from noni fruit, which has a light scent and can exfoliate the skin.

For souvenirs, you can go to the city center, the DFS Duty Free Shop (for major brands), and the I Love Saipan gift shop (the most comprehensive gift shop, offering a wide range of clothing, accessories, and daily necessities).

1. Clothing

Saipan has a constant temperature of around 26℃ year-round, so pack short-sleeved shirts, shorts, and beach dresses. If you’re sensitive to the sun, you can bring your own sun-protective clothing.

2. Sunscreen

Use sunscreen with a high SPF and waterproof properties, or you can buy it in Saipan. Special note: Saipan airport security does not allow aerosols, so they cannot be checked in or carried on.

3. Rain gear

Saipan is a rainy island, so whether you’re traveling during the rainy season or the dry season, it’s best to pack an umbrella or raincoat.