American Memorial Park
A National Park Service site in Garapan, with a good museum on the battle.
Saipan and the Northern Marianas
A beach island of the Western Pacific where one of the Pacific War's bloodiest battles was fought.
American Memorial Park is open, with typhoon debris and fallen trees still around. Take care on the paths.Checked November 2, 2026 · Latest
In June 1944, US forces took Saipan, and so brought Japan within reach of B-29 bombers. Thousands of Japanese civilians and soldiers died at the northern cliffs rather than surrender. Tinian, next door, launched the atomic bomb missions in 1945.
Today it's a quiet place of warm lagoon beaches and great diving.
- Best Time
- December–May
- Time Needed
- 3–4 days
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Year-round
- Getting There
- Short flights from Guam, about 45 minutes, plus routes from Asia.
What to See
3 of 4 are freeManagaha Island
A small sandy island in the lagoon, ringed by wrecks and reef, by short boat ride.
Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff
Solemn memorials at the island's northern tip, where many died in 1944. Be respectful.
The Grotto
A famous dive site in a deep, flooded limestone cave, with a lookout for non-divers.
Know Before You Go
- Flights are limited and often connect through Guam, Tokyo or Seoul. Check before you plan.
- Typhoons have caused serious damage here in recent years.
Where to Stay
Stay in Garapan or along Micro Beach.
Where to Eat
Our picks are on the way.
Editor's picks. Nobody paid to be on this list.
Something wrong or out of date?
Traveler Reviews
Sign in and mark Saipan and the Northern Marianas as visited to write a review.
Go Next
If You're NearbyGuam
Guam
America's far western outpost, where the day begins: Chamorro culture, Tumon Bay's beaches and major World War II sites.
Full Guide
Must-SeeHonolulu and Waikiki
Hawaii
Waikiki's famous beach, Diamond Head and the Pearl Harbor memorial, on Hawaii's busiest island.
Full Guide
Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the US Territories list.