Located in the west Pacific, the US commonwealth of Saipan is the largest and most developed of the Mariana Islands. With summer-like temperatures year-round, Saipan draws many visitors looking for a tropical escape on its beaches or adventure in its waters, jungles, and cliffs. There is also plenty of World War II history and Indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian cultural influences. From scuba diving at the Grotto and sunbathing at Managaha Island to viewing ancient pictographs at Kalabera Cave, there is no shortage of things to do on Saipan.
Saipan is known for having the world’s most consistent temperature, with balmy summer temperatures year-round. Typhoon season runs from July to November. Expect Saipan to be the most crowded and have the highest hotel prices around Japanese public holidays, such as the Golden Week holiday from late April to early May. The Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival & Beer Garden is held every weekend in May.
There are limited public transportation options on Saipan, which include a public bus that runs from Garapan along the southwest coast of the island, and shuttles between hotels and the duty-free mall. Taxis are plentiful but expensive and can be limited in where they can pick up and drop off. The best way to get around the island is to rent a car or a moped, though hotels can arrange tours to different attractions and airport transfers.
There is no fee to visit the American Memorial Park, located next to Micro Beach in Garapan. Visitors can learn about the Battle of Saipan through a film and exhibits and stroll around the grounds, which include memorials and World War II artifacts, along with picnic areas, tennis courts, and areas for field sports. It’s located near the duty-free mall, which offers free shuttles from many hotels on Saipan.
