· MP

Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands, located in the western Pacific Ocean, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by adventurous travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Comprising 14 islands, this U.S. Commonwe…

#Pacific Islands#Tropical#US Territory#Saipan#Micronesia

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Northern Mariana Islands.

Top Hotels in Saipan

Top Flights to Saipan

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Northern Mariana Islands.

Tours

Explore Managaha Island

A small, uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Outdoor

Hiking Mt. Tapochao

Hike to the highest peak of the Northern Mariana Islands for panoramic views.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Northern Mariana Islands.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of the Northern Mariana Islands is 47,000.

Languages

English, Chamorro, Carolinian

Average weather

Northern Mariana Islands

Jan

29°24°

Feb

29°24°

Mar

30°24°

Apr

30°25°

May

31°25°

Jun

31°26°

Jul

31°26°

Aug

31°26°

Sep

31°26°

Oct

31°25°

Nov

30°25°

Dec

29°24°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Northern Mariana Islands.

What people love

The Northern Mariana Islands, located in the western Pacific Ocean, offer a unique and beautiful travel destination with several advantages for visitors. Here are some of the pros of traveling to the Northern Mariana Islands:

Scenic Beauty: The Northern Mariana Islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical landscapes. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking, and beachcombing while taking in the picturesque surroundings.
Rich Culture and History: The islands have a diverse cultural heritage influenced by Chamorro, Carolinian, and other Pacific Islander traditions. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and cultural events to learn more about the local history and traditions.
Outdoor Adventures: The Northern Mariana Islands offer a range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts, such as hiking to waterfalls, exploring caves, zip-lining, and fishing. The islands also have excellent diving and snorkeling spots with vibrant marine life and coral reefs.
Relaxed Atmosphere: The Northern Mariana Islands are known for their laid-back and peaceful atmosphere, making them an ideal destination for travelers looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a slower pace of life and immerse themselves in the island's tranquil surroundings.
Local Cuisine: The Northern Mariana Islands offer a variety of delicious local dishes influenced by the region's diverse cultural heritage. Visitors can savor traditional Chamorro and Carolinian cuisine, as well as fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Warm Hospitality: The people of the Northern Mariana Islands are known for their warm hospitality and friendly demeanor towards visitors. Travelers can expect to be welcomed with open arms and experience the local culture firsthand through interactions with residents.

Overall, traveling to the Northern Mariana Islands offers a unique opportunity to explore a beautiful destination with rich culture, outdoor adventures, and a relaxed atmosphere.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to the Northern Mariana Islands may include:

Limited Transportation Options: Getting around the different islands within the Northern Mariana Islands may be challenging as there are limited transportation options available. Renting a car may be necessary for exploring the islands.
Limited Accommodation Choices: While there are accommodations available on the main islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, the options may be limited compared to more popular tourist destinations. It's important to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Limited Activities and Attractions: The Northern Mariana Islands may not offer as many tourist activities and attractions as other destinations. Visitors seeking a bustling nightlife or a wide range of entertainment options may find the islands to be more laid-back and relaxed.
Limited Healthcare Facilities: The Northern Mariana Islands may have limited healthcare facilities and medical services available, especially on the smaller islands. Travelers with specific medical needs should plan accordingly and consider travel insurance.
Limited Shopping and Dining Options: While there are shopping and dining options available on the main islands, the variety may be limited compared to more developed destinations. Visitors looking for extensive shopping or dining experiences may find the options in the Northern Mariana Islands to be more limited.

Overall, while the Northern Mariana Islands offer natural beauty and a unique cultural experience, travelers should be prepared for the potential limitations and challenges that come with visiting a more remote and less developed destination.

The Northern Mariana Islands, officially known as the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), is a group of 14 islands in the Pacific Ocean that are politically associated with the United States. Here is a detailed history of the Northern Mariana Islands:

Pre-European Contact

The Northern Mariana Islands were originally settled by the Chamorro people, who are believed to have arrived from Southeast Asia around 1500 BC. The indigenous Chamorro culture was a matrilineal society with a complex social structure and advanced seafaring skills.

Spanish Colonization (1521-1899)

1521: Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer sailing under the Spanish flag, was the first European to arrive in the islands, which he named the "Islas de los Ladrones" (Islands of Thieves) due to a misunderstanding with the local population.
1668: Spanish colonization formally began when Jesuit missionaries, led by Diego Luis de San Vitores, established a mission on the island of Guam. The islands were renamed the "Mariana Islands" in honor of Mariana of Austria, the Queen Regent of Spain.
The Spanish colonial period was marked by efforts to convert the Chamorro people to Christianity and integrate them into the Spanish Empire, which led to significant social upheaval and population decline due to disease and conflict.

German and Japanese Control (1899-1944)

1899: After the Spanish-American War and the Treaty of Paris (1898), Spain sold the Northern Mariana Islands to Germany.
1914: During World War I, Japan occupied the islands and later received a mandate over them from the League of Nations in 1920. Under Japanese control, the islands were developed economically, with a focus on sugar cane plantations and military fortifications.

World War II

1944: The islands became a significant battleground during World War II. The Battle of Saipan (June 15 - July 9, 1944) and the Battle of Tinian (July 24 - August 1, 1944) were crucial in the U.S. campaign to recapture the Pacific islands from Japanese control. The capture of Saipan allowed the United States to launch air attacks on the Japanese mainland.

Post-War Period and U.S. Administration

1947: After World War II, the Northern Mariana Islands became part of the United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States.
1975: Residents of the Northern Mariana Islands voted in favor of becoming a commonwealth in political union with the United States. This led to the establishment of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI).
1978: The CNMI officially became a commonwealth of the United States, granting its residents U.S. citizenship and self-governance.

Significant Figures

Diego Luis de San Vitores: A Jesuit missionary who played a key role in the Spanish colonization and Christianization of the islands.
Benigno Repeki Fitial: The first governor of the CNMI elected as a Republican in 2001, later re-elected as an independent.

Important Landmarks

American Memorial Park: Located on Saipan, it honors the sacrifices made during the Marianas Campaign in World War II and is a tribute to American soldiers.
Suicide Cliff and Banzai Cliff: These are historical sites on Saipan where many Japanese soldiers and civilians jumped to their deaths during the Battle of Saipan, preferring death over surrender.
House of Taga: Located on Tinian, it features ancient latte stone pillars that were used as foundations for Chamorro houses and are an important part of Chamorro heritage.

The Northern Mariana Islands' history is rich with periods of colonial rule, World War II significance, and a unique relationship with the United States, making it a culturally and historically significant region in the Pacific.