Saipan is the largest and northernmost island of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The island’s capital is Tinian City. It has a population of 55,857 as of 2015 and is home to two major international airports, Saipan International Airport and Tinian International Airport.
Things to do in Saipan
1. Saipan International Airport
This is the gateway to the Northern Mariana Islands. It is one of two airports in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
2. Saipan’s Underground Hospital
It is an underground hospital built by U.S. troops during the World War 2 and said to have a capacity of 1500 beds, enough to treat all casualties from nearby islands in case of emergency or mass bombings by Japanese. The hospital was never used as it functioned in Japan with a capacity of 120,000 in Hiroshima and Nagasaki after the war ended. The hospital was renovated and converted into a museum before being given back to the Chamorro Land Trust Board, who maintains it today.
3. The Tinian Heritage Museum
This museum displays the history of Tinian – the only inhabited island of the Northern Mariana Islands. It is one of only five U.S. National Historic Landmarks and has a collection of historical artifacts, in addition to photographs and newspapers related to history showcase.
4. The Tinian Volcano Museum
This museum is located on top of Mount Oriole, the highest point in Tinian at over 2100 meters, in the center of downtown Tinian on the “Mount Royal” area. It presents an account of how people had lived in regards to natural disasters and their evacuation processes during all stages in their lives: from birth, old age and death.
5. Rock Islands
These deserted islands are a great place to explore the natural coastal beauty of the island, with its limestone caves and coral reefs. You can dive or snorkel from here, in addition to experiencing swimming with whale sharks.
6. Saipan Beach Park
This one is also known as “Sunset Beach” for its beautiful sunset views every evening. The best thing about this beach is that it features two big waves coming crashing onto the shore daily which makes it very attractive to surfers and water sports enthusiasts. There are facilities such as changing rooms, restrooms, showers, life guards and picnic tables available onsite. Parking also comes free when you get there.
