Port Guide | Northern Mariana Islands | Dive Deep

Saipan

Author Image for Alexis Tonken

Alexis Tonken | Editor

Published on 2025-07-01

Welcome to Saipan, travelers-the Micronesian gem where paradise beaches meet oddly tangled history, and cliches arrive only to be gently mocked and set aside. You've arrived by residential cruise, which means you're seasoned enough to know that the charm of this Northern Mariana Island isn't confined strictly to postcard-perfect shorelines (though frankly, they're outrageously photogenic). Saipan has seen everyone from ancient Chamorros navigating epic ocean voyages to colonizing Spaniards, Germans, Japanese occupiers, and U.S. marines-and now, conveniently, you. Expect delicious dishes rooted in Chamorro tradition, blending fresh seafood, coconut, and alarming quantities of flavorful citrus; try kelaguen for lunch and thank me later. Kick off your visit by snorkeling amid WWII shipwrecks or lounging on Micro Beach, where the sunsets are as legendary as the sunburns are predictable. Welcome ashore-leave generic tourism cliches behind and dive straight into the salty, sunny, slightly surreal heart of Saipan.

Northern Mariana Islands has 8 Travel Advisories

Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.

Get the Full Report

Notes from the Editor

Saipan is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and recreational activities such as snorkeling and diving. Cruise travelers should take advantage of the local culture and try local cuisine, including Chamorro dishes.


Where do cruise ships dock in Saipan?

Port Name Saipan

Country Northern Mariana Islands

Region Micronesia

Ship Terminal Crown Bay Marina

Port Type Dedicated Port

Accessibility The terminal is located approximately 6 miles (9.7 km) from the city center of Garapan, which is accessible via taxis and shuttles. Public transportation options include buses that run regularly from the port to various destinations.

What's the weather like in Saipan?

Best Season to Visit Winter to early spring (December to March)

Climate Tropical marine climate with warm temperatures year-round. Expect high humidity and occasional rainfall, particularly during the wet season.

Weather Notes The peak season for tourism typically coincides with cooler winter months; however, be cautious of occasional tropical storms and typhoons, particularly from August to October.

Temperature Range 75F - 85F (24C - 29C)

High Temp 89F

Low Temp 70F

Average Temp 80F

What do I need to know about Saipan?

Language English

Currency United States Dollar (USD)

Card Widely Accepted 1

Population 48,220

Timezone ChST (UTC+10)

How do I get around Saipan?

Taxis, shuttle buses, rental cars, and public buses are available for transit purposes. Additionally, many local attractions offer tour services starting from the port.


What are The Best Things to do in Saipan?

Discover what you should do while you're in Saipan.


Adventure and Outdoor Activities

Grotto Cave Diving | Editor Highlight

Author Image for Alexis Tonken

Alexis Tonken | Editor

Published on 2025-07-01

Best Time to Go

Morning

Cost

$150-$300 USD

Activity Level

Strenuous

Where to Book

Through Guide

Grotto cave diving isn't your average Sunday swim-think less lazy laps, more Jules Verne meets daredevil adventure, plunging headfirst into an ethereal underwater maze carved meticulously by Mother Nature's moody teenage years. Nestled in the heart of the Grotto Area, this subterranean wonderland entices divers with shockingly blue waters-so brilliantly azure you'll wonder if you've accidentally stumbled into Neptune's private liquor cabinet-and an almost unsettlingly beautiful collection of stalactites and stalagmites that nature has been perfecting quietly for millions of years, long before the invention of Instagram hashtags. Practical tip: schedule your dive for an early morning slot (before the selfie stick-wielding hordes arrive), book at least two weeks ahead (this isn't a last-minute brunch reservation), and stash away about $150-200 per person for gear, guides, and insurance-because laughing in the face of gravity doesn't come cheap. Pack a sturdy GoPro, a wetsuit, and nerves of steel (or at least adequately caffeinated bravado)-you're heading into a limestone labyrinth, not a kiddie pool. Do it because it's absurdly beautiful, slightly dangerous, and because later, at dimly lit bars, you'll casually drop, "Did I ever tell you about my dive into the Grotto caves?" and instantly become infinitely more interesting.

Grotto Cave Diving

N/A

Dive into an underwater cave system, renowned for its stunning blue waters and unique limestone formations.

Distance from Terminal: 9.2 miles

Adrenaline Tour Outdoors Nature Water Remote Reservations Needed Tickets Required Bucket-List Car Needed Photo Op

Mount Tapochau Hike

N/A

Hike to Saipan's highest point for 360-degree views of the island.

Distance from Terminal: 5.9 miles

Active Outdoors Nature Rural Photo Op

Forbidden Island Hike

N/A

An adventurous hike to a remote island with spectacular coastal views. A guide is recommended due to the challenging terrain.

Distance from Terminal: 7.1 miles

Active Adrenaline Outdoors Nature Remote Photo Op

Obyan Beach Snorkeling

N/A

Snorkel or relax on this beautiful, less crowded beach known for its clear water and marine life.

Distance from Terminal: 4.6 miles

Relaxing Outdoors Nature Water Wildlife Photo Op

Historical and cultural landmarks

Banzai Cliff

N/A

A poignant historical site where thousands of Japanese soldiers and civilians perished during WWII. The cliffs offer stunning ocean views.

Distance from Terminal: 10.5 miles

Relaxing Outdoors Nature Rural Car Needed Photo Op

Suicide Cliff

N/A

A historical and scenic viewpoint where you can reflect on the past while enjoying panoramic views of the island.

Distance from Terminal: 9.7 miles

Outdoors Nature Remote Car Needed Photo Op

American Memorial Park

Intersection of Micro Beach Rd and Chalan Pale Arnold, Garapan, Saipan

This park offers remembrance for those who fought in the Marianas Campaign of WWII and features a visitor center and beautiful landscapes.

Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles

Accessible Relaxing Self-Guided Outdoors Free Park Walking-Distance Photo Op

Mt. Carmel Cathedral

Diaz Dr, Chalan Kanoa, Saipan

A beautiful, historical cathedral that is central to the spiritual life in Saipan.

Distance from Terminal: 3.4 miles

Accessible Relaxing Indoors Architecture Iconic Spiritual Photo Op

Last Command Post Park

N/A

Explore WWII relics, including artillery pieces and bunkers, in this park honoring the island's military history.

Distance from Terminal: 10.4 miles

Accessible Relaxing Outdoors Nature Park Car Needed Photo Op

Sugar King Park

Sugar King Park Rd, Garapan, Saipan

Visit this historical park with statues and remains of the sugar industry era.

Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles

Accessible Relaxing Outdoors Free Park Walking-Distance Photo Op

Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path

Ladder Beach

N/A

A secluded beach accessible via a short climb, offering surreal landscapes and limestone cliffs.

Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles

Relaxing Outdoors Nature Water Remote Photo Op

Bird Island Overlook

N/A

Offers breathtaking views of Bird Island and is a habitat for many bird species.

Distance from Terminal: 9.4 miles

Relaxing Outdoors Nature Remote Wildlife Photo Op

Kalabera Cave

N/A

Explore this cave, notable for ancient Chamorro cave art and unique formations.

Distance from Terminal: 8.3 miles

Active Self-Guided Outdoors Nature Remote Art Car Needed Photo Op

Saipan Botanical Garden

N/A

Explore a variety of native plants and exotic flora in this peaceful garden setting.

Distance from Terminal: 5.2 miles

Relaxing Outdoors Nature Park Photo Op

Puntan Sabaneta

N/A

Visit this picturesque viewpoint for stunning sunsets overlooking the Philippine Sea.

Distance from Terminal: 3.8 miles

Accessible Relaxing Outdoors Nature Photo Op

Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere

Managaha Island Day Trip

N/A

Relax on pristine beaches or snorkel in vibrant coral reefs on this small, nearby island.

Distance from Terminal: 2 miles

Relaxing Outdoors Nature Water Touristy Photo Op

A Little Extra

Garapan Street Market

Independence Avenue, Garapan, Saipan

Experience the local culture through food, crafts, and entertainment at this vibrant street market.

Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles

Accessible Relaxing Crowded Outdoors Urban Free Budget Street Food Food Tour Market Drinks Neighborhood Walking-Distance Touristy Photo Op

Micro Beach

N/A

Popular spot for relaxing, people-watching, and enjoying beachfront views right in Garapan.

Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles

Relaxing Outdoors Nature Water Walking-Distance Touristy Photo Op

Northern Marianas Golf Course

Laulau Bay, Saipan

Play golf in a stunning setting with ocean views, tropical foliage, and challenging terrains.

Distance from Terminal: 7.3 miles

Active Relaxing Outdoors Nature Reservations Needed Car Needed Photo Op

Overnight Trips

Tinian Island Day Trip

N/A

Catch a ferry to neighboring Tinian to explore historical WWII sites and the old airfield.

Distance from Terminal: 60 miles

Tour Outdoors Remote Reservations Needed Ferry Photo Op

Northern Mariana Islands Regional Tip

Respect for elders and leaders In social gatherings, elders are served meals first, and their opinions are highly regarded in conversations.

Get the Full Report