Resorts in Saipan
History, diving and fun!
About Saipan
Saipan is a beautiful island in the Northern Marianas, rich in history, culture and experiences. A part of the commonwealth of the Unites States of America, Saipan is a unique blend of the native Chamorro, American and Japanese cultures. Here, travellers will find laidback island living, great beaches, tonnes of historical sites and memorials, excellent restaurants, bars, resorts and casinos. It also has a treasure-chest of rare and endemic flora and fauna to attract nature lovers and bird-watchers. Of course, this does not discount the fact that Saipan is one superb diving destination – its main attraction!
History
Saipan’s history can be traced back as much as 4,000 years back! Carbon-dated Chamorro relics and especially the Latte Stones provide much historical backdrop of how this island maintains its unique cultural identity over the centuries. Then, it came under the rule of the Spanish in the 1500s, the Germans from 1989 onwards and the Japanese during World War I. Japan did much to improve the island’s infrastructure as a part of fortifying its mainland defence, building ports, roads, power stations, waterworks and more. It also introduced a sizeable Japanese population which at the time dwarfed the natives by magnitudes. This all changed during WWII, where Saipan was one of the most important theatres of war. After the war ended, Saipan came under the control of Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by USA. Today, Saipan remains one of the most important historical markers of WWII. The Japanese consider it a rite to visit shrines dotting the island, especially places like Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff where they pray to their forefathers’ spirits.
Things to do
Despite its bloody history during WWI and WWII, Saipan is essentially an incredibly beautiful tropical island. With places like Micro Beach with its powdery white sands, Bird Island with its rare and endemic avian population, the amalgam of Chamorro, American and Japanese cultures – Saipan is a vibrant, bustling destination. With scores of WWII wrecks of ships and fighter-planes, it is a diver’s dream. There are a number of scuba-diving hotspots like the Taiken Dive, the Grotto and more where new and experienced divers can explore with dive-charters. Then, adventurers would love trekking and hiking around the island amidst its lush forests and hills. To ease back after a day of fun and excitement, Saipan has a number of restaurants and bars to enjoy a chilled cocktail and exchange stories with fellow travellers. Check below for all-inclusive holiday packages where we bundle in stays, flights, meals, transfers and even bonus experiences like tours, spa sessions and resort credit!
Hotels & Resorts
Saipan is pretty well-developed when it comes to South Pacific islands with fantastic adventure, pristine nature and culture. Check out our partner hotels and resorts dotting Saipan – from affordable budget stays like the Aquarius Beach Tower Hotel to luxe options like the Pacific Islands Club Saipan and the Hyatt Regency Saipan.
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