Understand

Saipan, located at a latitude of 15.25 north and longitude of 145.75 east, is an idyllic island paradise situated approximately 200 km (120 mi) north of Guam. Stretching 20 km (12.5 mi) in length and 9 km (5.5 mi) in width, Saipan is a diver's dream in the Pacific with its captivating underwater scenery. Diving enthusiasts from Japan, Korea, America, and beyond flock to Saipan to explore its stunning dive sites. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Saipan offers a richness of underwater beauty that rivals Hawaii and Guam. While it may not surpass the diving wonders of Palau or Australia's Great Barrier Reef, Saipan promises an enchanting experience that will leave you in awe. Take the plunge and discover the ocean's hidden marvels in Saipan!

Understand:

Get ready to be amazed by this incredible dive site. With three different exit holes that lead out to the open ocean, you'll have an exhilarating adventure from start to finish. Explore beautiful walls, swim-throughs, and caves, and be prepared to encounter fascinating sea life like turtles and Clown Triggerfish. Keep an eye out for the resident White Tip Sharks lounging on the bottom during the day. This dive site is a favorite among professional dive shops on Saipan, and while it may be challenging, it's a must-visit for certified divers looking for an unforgettable experience. The Grotto offers a topography like no other, with a natural tunnel leading you from a high cliff to the depths below the sea. As you exit through the wide openings, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking beauty of the open ocean. Drift along the cliff wall and don't miss the chance to explore the famous underwater cavern known as "the batcave" with the help of a local guide. And the best part? The visibility here is absolutely stunning, often exceeding 90ft./30m. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Get in

Experience an awe-inspiring shore dive like no other. Your journey begins with a scenic drive along a well-paved road from San Roque. As you approach the cliff, anticipation builds. Once you arrive at the parking lot perched atop the cliff, prepare for an adventure like no other. Descend down 112 cement steps, surrounded by the warm embrace of sunlight, until you reach the entrance of the cave lagoon. Channel your inner explorer as you step onto the sunlit large natural rock, ready to immerse yourself in the underwater paradise that awaits. With a giant-stride entry into the crystal-clear water, you embark on a dive that will leave you in awe. For safety, hold onto a mooring buoy, ensuring that all members of your group are together. When the time comes to bid farewell to this enchanting world beneath the waves, fear not. Your exit is just as exhilarating as your entry. Clinging to the mooring buoy rope, allow yourself to swing onto a sea-level ledge on the entry/exit rock. Discover the thrill of exploration, the beauty of marine life, and the serenity of underwater caves on this remarkable shore dive.

Understand:

Prepare yourself for a unique beach and boat dive adventure at Wing Beach, located closest to The Grotto. While the access road may be a bit rough, the dive itself is well-worth the journey. Start by walking across a picturesque white pebble beach and then follow the rocky wall down a flat slope. Discover the remarkable geographical features, including captivating crevices and breathtaking drop-offs. Don't miss the 30m/90ft. tower and deep canyon in the underwater wall. Remember, this hidden gem is not frequently visited by professional dive shops, so you'll have the chance to explore this stunning dive site without the crowds. And of course, expect excellent visibility to enhance your diving experience. Get ready to dive into a world of wonder at Wing Beach!

Get in

Prepare for an extraordinary adventure as you embark on a boat or shore dive that will take your breath away. With multiple options to start your journey, the possibilities are endless. Whether you opt for a beach or boat entry, prepare to be amazed. Dive into the unknown and let the current guide you through a mesmerizing underwater world. Drift along effortlessly as the wonders of the deep unfold before your eyes. The best way to experience this breathtaking dive is through a thrilling drift dive from a boat. Surrender to the currents and let them carry you to places you've never seen before. Allow yourself to be captivated by the beauty of the underwater realm as you explore its hidden treasures. Get ready for a truly exceptional dive experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Understand:

Discover the perfect introductory dive site at Tanapag, one of Saipan's safest and most convenient spots. This shallow beachdive will provide you with a unique and unforgettable experience. But be careful! Tanapag should not be mistaken for the Saipan boat harbor of the same name. At this dive site, professional dive leaders sometimes bring canned and plastic-wrapped hot dogs to create a thrilling underwater feeding frenzy. While it may be exciting for divers, this unnatural food source poses health risks to the fish and leaves the area polluted with cans and plastic wrapping. Dive at your own risk and remember to respect the marine environment. With a depth of 0~15ft./5m, Tanapag offers moderate visibility of 30ft./10m. While there might be occasional strong currents, typically the conditions are near-ideal for an incredible introductory underwater adventure. Explore the fascinating underwater world of Tanapag and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Get in

Embark on a shore dive that will take you on a journey of discovery. Accessible from a well-paved asphalt road near Garapan City and San Roque, this dive spot is conveniently located. Start your adventure by parking next to a charming small church and an open-air public theater. Take a moment to listen to the dive instructions while sitting on the low walls that surround the theater. Feel the excitement build as you prepare your gear, eager to explore the underwater wonders that await. Step onto the gently sloping sand beach and experience the thrill of strapping on your dive equipment. Ease into the pristine water, where you can stand up and practice your dive training techniques. Gain confidence as you perfect your skills in this controlled environment. When you're ready to venture further into the depths, follow the submerged anchored rope that guides you towards new discoveries. Delve into deeper water, ready to encounter the vibrant marine life that calls this dive site home. Prepare to be amazed as you immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this captivating shore dive. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Understand:

Discover the fascinating story of this World War Two troop ship, once owned by the Japanese, that tragically sank while carrying conscripted Korean soldiers. Unlike most shipwrecks, this one lies in shallow water and offers a unique diving experience with a simple and safe environment. In the mid-1990s, Korean divers paid their respects by placing a memorial plaque on the wreck and a stone memorial nearby. This act of remembrance focused on the fallen Korean soldiers, but stirred controversy within the multinational professional dive community of Saipan. While the war casualties were not mentioned, the gesture created a minor uproar. Located in the large lagoon outside Garapan/Tanapag, this wreck awaits adventurous divers at a depth of 30 to 40 feet (10 to 13 meters). Though occasional strong currents may pose a challenge and affect visibility, you can typically expect clear waters with 50-foot (17-meter) visibility, a white sandy bottom, and calm conditions without surface wave activity.

Get in

It is strictly a boat dive, being too far from shore for a beach entry.

Understand:

Prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting Ice Cream dive site just outside the lagoon, slightly south of Garapan on the west side of Saipan. This incredible underwater world is characterized by a vast submerged coral mound adorned with colorful staghorn corals. Dive down to a depth of approximately 40 feet (16 meters) where you'll encounter the stunning summit resembling a baseball diamond. Enjoy excellent visibility of up to 60 feet (20 meters) while exploring this captivating site. Currents are generally mild, but it is advisable to hold onto the anchor rope during descent, ascent, and safety stops as a precautionary measure. Get ready for an unforgettable diving experience at Ice Cream!

Get in

Boat dive. There are several permanent boat moorings.

Understand:

Embark on an exciting adventure at the spectacular Obzhan Beach, a favorite spot among professional dive shops for both relaxed "fun dives" and open water training. Located near Naftan Point, this beach offers a fantastic diving opportunity coupled with stunning underwater beauty. Immerse yourself in the depths ranging from 15 to 60 feet (5 to 18 meters) and explore the vibrant marine life surrounding you. Don't miss the chance to visit the neighboring sites known as "Mushroom rock/Boyscout beach/Secret beach," which divers also frequently explore during their excursions. Expect visibility to range from a minimum of 30 feet (10 meters) to an impressive 150+ feet (45+ meters) on an exceptionally clear day. Whether you're seeking a thrilling dive or open water training, Obzhan Beach has it all!

Get in

(Boat or shore dive) The dive site is near the airport, and accessed via a poorly maintained pothole-ridden asphalt road and a dirt/coral-rubble road. Access and exit are typically from the beach along a rope anchored inside a natural cut in the coral plateau near the beach.

Understand:

Explore one of Saipan's most frequently visited sites, perfect for beginners and those fascinated by vibrant marine life. Topography: Immerse yourself in one of the largest reefs on the island, teeming with colorful creatures and stunning formations.

Understand:

Embark on a diving adventure to the hidden gems of Boyscout 1 & 2. These secluded beaches are a rarity to be discovered by divers due to their challenging accessibility. However, those who go the extra mile are rewarded with a mesmerizing sight of pristine coral reefs embraced by powdery white sand.

Understand:

Uncover the mystery of the B-29/Emily wreck, a name that may deceive but carries a fascinating story of a Japanese H8K or Type 2 Large Flying Boat. Known as Emily by the Allied forces, this Imperial Japanese Navy Flying boat played a vital role during World War II in maritime patrol duties. Depth: Dive into the depths of 30 ft for an easy and tranquil exploration. Topography: Witness the remains of the four large props, still intact and surrounded by the remnants of the wing. Spot the gun turret off to the side, while a chair and control panel lie in close proximity, hinting at the history that unfolded within these submerged grounds.

Understand:

Attention all thrill-seeking high school divers! Get ready to embark on an extraordinary underwater adventure like no other in Saipan - Eagle Ray City! This dive spot is guaranteed to leave you in awe as you dive into the depths of the ocean and come face to face with up to 40 majestic Eagle Rays. Picture yourself gripping onto the rocky formation at 30 feet below the surface, while these mesmerizing creatures gracefully glide overhead. Dive into this unique rocky reef on sand and get ready to witness the wonders of nature unfold before your very eyes!

Understand:

Calling all skill levels! It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned diver or just starting out, because this next spot is suitable for everyone. Prepare to explore the depths ranging from 40 to 130 feet as you journey to a seamount situated on the Western side of Saipan. With its diverse topography, this dive promises to be an incredible experience. So gather your diving gear and get ready to discover the hidden treasures that await!

Understand:

Attention underwater enthusiasts! Brace yourselves for an unforgettable adventure at one of the best wall dives in the CNMI. Located on the southern tip of the island, this dive spot offers astounding visibility and an abundance of vibrant marine life. Dive in and explore the breathtaking wall, where you'll witness a stunning underwater world unfold before your very eyes. Starting at 45 feet and descending over 130 feet, this dive guarantees a thrilling and immersive experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness the beauty of nature up close and personal!

Understand:

The Chinsen Maru, a massive Japanese freighter, rests at a depth of 30 feet in the vibrant lagoon. Having been submerged for more than half a century, the ship has become a mesmerizing spectacle of flourishing coral and a bustling home to thousands of vibrant fish species. Depth: 30ft (9m)

Understand:

Diving conditions suitable for exploring the Chinsen Maru are only present for a brief period each year. However, the anticipation and patience are truly rewarded with exhilarating dives into the grand expanse of the deep blue. Topography: A magnificent wall awaits exploration

Understand:

Prepare to embark upon the captivating adventure known as Spot Light, a cavern dive that earns its name from the awe-inspiring sight when sunlight pierces through a small aperture in the cavern's ceiling, casting a radiant spotlight upon its stage-like surroundings. Position: This enchanting dive site awaits in close proximity to Banzai. However, both locations are only accessible during a limited time frame. Topography: Encounter the mystique of a fascinating cavern dive