Garapan Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Located in the Saipan region of the Northern Mariana Islands, Garapan is a charming village that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant culture. With its pristine beaches, fascinating landmarks, and a wide array of recreational activities, Garapan promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Garapan is blessed with stunning beaches that boast crystal clear waters, powdery white sand, and breathtaking views. Visitors can unwind and soak up the sun on Micro Beach, where they can also indulge in various water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those seeking tranquility, the serene Lau Lau Bay Beach offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustling crowds, allowing travelers to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature's wonders.

Apart from its picturesque beaches, Garapan is also home to several historical landmarks that showcase its rich past. The American Memorial Park serves as a tribute to the brave soldiers who fought during World War II, featuring exhibits, memorials, and a peaceful walking trail. The Last Command Post, located within the park, is a fascinating relic that offers a glimpse into the island's wartime history.

Beyond its natural beauty and historical significance, Garapan is a hub of cultural vibrancy. The village is dotted with local markets and shops where visitors can immerse themselves in the island's unique arts and crafts scene. The Garapan Street Market is a must-visit for those seeking authentic local products, delicious cuisine, and lively entertainment. From traditional souvenirs to mouthwatering delicacies, the market offers a sensory delight that captures the essence of the Northern Mariana Islands.

For those who enjoy exploring off the beaten path, Garapan offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Adventurers can hike the challenging but rewarding Mount Tapochau, the highest peak on Saipan, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the island. The Forbidden Island, located just off the coast of Garapan, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, with its untouched beauty and rich marine life making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers.

Alternative names: Elevation: 23 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 15°12'45"N, 145°43'8"E

Location

SaipanNorthern Mariana Islands

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Garapan Top Attractions

Garapan Attractions - What to See and Explore

Garapan offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Saipan Katori Shrine, American Memorial Park, Kristo Rai Church, Sugar King Park. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Sacred and religious sites
Saipan Katori Shrine
The Saipan Katori Shrine is a Shintō shrine in Sugar King Park, Garapan, Saipan. The main festival of the shrine is held annually in October.
Museum • Memorial
American Memorial Park
American Memorial Park on the island of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, was created as a memorial honoring the sacrifices made during the Marianas Campaign of World War II.
Church
Kristo Rai Church
The Kristo Rai Church is a Roman Catholic church in the street Kopa Di Oru of the town of Garapan in the Northern Marianas Islands, a dependent territory of the United States in the Pacific Ocean, part of Oceania.

Park
Sugar King Park
Sugar King Park is a municipal park located in Garapan, Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands across from the NMI Museum of History and Culture. The park was named in honor of the "Sugar King" Haruji Matsue, director of the South Seas Development Company.
Tours • Outdoor activities
Japanese Hospital
The Japanese Hospital or Saipan Byoin is a historic World War II-era hospital complex on Route 3 in Garapan, a village on the island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands.
Museum • History museum
NMI Museum of History and Culture
The NMI Museum of History and Culture, also known as the NMI Museum, is a museum in Garapan, Saipan hosting exhibitions about the Chamorro and Carolinian people and also displays artifacts, documents, textiles, and photographs from the Spanish, German, Japanese, and American periods in the Northern Mariana Islands.
15°13'5"N • 145°43'12"E
American Memorial Park Visitor Center
Museum
Ship
Waherak Maihar
The Waherak Maihar is a historic outrigger canoe on the island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands. Built in 1958, it is a well-preserved example of a traditional Caroline Islands ocean-going canoe. It is 26 feet long with a beam of 3 feet.
Island
Mañagaha
Mañagaha is a small islet which lies off the west coast of Saipan within its lagoon in the Northern Mariana Islands.

Day trips

Garapan – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Garapan, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Mount Tapochau (Saipan), House of Taga (Tinian), Santa Remedios Church (Saipan).

2.4 miSE
Historic peak with a trail to the summit
Mount Tapochau, Saipan
Mount Tapochau is the highest point on the island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, standing as a silent guardian over the lush tropical landscape. Rising to an elevation of 474 meters (1,554 feet), this mountain is not only a geographical landmark but also a...
18 milesS
Archaeological site
House of Taga, Tinian
The House of Taga is an archeological site located near San Jose Village, on the island of Tinian, United States Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, in the Marianas Archipelago.
3.2 miNE
Church
Santa Remedios Church, Saipan
Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, on the island of Saipan, stands the Santa Remedios Church, a serene sanctuary that beckons the faithful and history enthusiasts alike. This quaint place of worship is not merely a spiritual haven but also a cultural touchstone...
4.4 miS
Church
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral, Saipan
Nestled in the heart of Saipan, the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral stands as a beacon of faith and history. This Catholic church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of resilience for the island's...
8.2 miNE
Memorial
Banzai Cliff, Saipan
Banzai Cliff, located on the northern tip of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, serves as a poignant historical memorial site. This scenic location, overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean, is steeped in somber history due to the tragic events that unfolded here during...