Saipan is a fascinating island that offers more than just sun and surf. Its history, especially related to World War II and Amelia Earhart, makes it a compelling destination for travelers who want to go beyond beaches and explore the island’s stories. We especially love tours that combine history with personalized experiences, like the Saipan in a Day- WWII Pilgrimage & Amelia Earhart Tour, which offers an intimate look at Saipan’s past alongside the chance to uncover some of the island’s most intriguing rumors. Plus, the Hobie Cat Saipan Lagoon Sailing Tour provides a relaxing way to enjoy the lagoon’s calm waters, perfect for a quick escape.
Saipan is perfect for a variety of tours, from full-day private explorations that dig deep into local stories to short, fun sailing trips that let you unwind. Whether you’re a history lover, a watersports enthusiast, or someone looking for a personalized adventure, Saipan delivers. Below is a quick overview of the best tours we recommend, followed by detailed insights into each.
1. Saipan in a Day- WWII Pilgrimage & Amelia Earhart Tour
At number one on our list is the Saipan in a Day- WWII Pilgrimage & Amelia Earhart Tour. For around $580 per person, this full-day private tour takes you across Saipan’s most iconic and hidden sites, providing a tailored experience that covers history, culture, and local stories. The tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Saipan’s past, including its role during WWII and the mysterious connection to Amelia Earhart.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. Your guide, Walt, is a local with 25 years of experience who shares stories with warmth and humor. You’ll visit the island’s top points of interest like the Japanese Shinto shrine, Saipan Katori Shrine, and explore lesser-known sites linked to Earhart’s rumored detention on Saipan. The tour’s flexibility allows you to customize your stops, making it ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of the island’s complex history. The highlight for many is uncovering whether the rumors of Earhart’s landing and captivity are true, adding an intriguing layer to an already rich experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and personal storytelling, making it ideal for travelers eager for an immersive and flexible experience.
2. Saipan & Tinian 2-DAY Tour (Day1: SPN; Day2: TIN)
Number two on our list is the Saipan & Tinian 2-DAY Tour, designed for history buffs wanting a deeper dive into WWII sites. For about $1,150, this private experience spans two days, covering the key locations of both islands with a personalized touch that small group tours often lack.
The first day focuses on Saipan’s historic sites, but the real highlight is a visit to Suicide Cliff on Tinian, the island where the atomic bombs’ B-29s took off. You’ll explore the bomb pits, the runway, and see replicas of the planes that changed history — the Enola Gay and Bockstar. Your guide, Walt, shares detailed stories of the war’s impact, making these locations resonate powerfully. Many visitors comment that this tour allowed them to connect deeply with WWII history, especially when walking where the planes launched on their deadly missions.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want an in-depth, private experience of the WWII sites on both islands, with enough time to reflect and take in the scenery. It’s a full day but offers a meaningful and personalized history lesson that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Bottom Line: Ideal for WWII enthusiasts and those wanting an extended, private exploration of Saipan and Tinian’s historical significance.
3. Hobie Cat Saipan Lagoon Sailing Tour
For a completely different pace, the Hobie Cat Saipan Lagoon Sailing Tour is a 2-hour adventure that’s perfect for a quick, fun escape. Priced at just $60 per person, this tour is all about relaxing navigation and enjoying the beautiful lagoon scenery.
The Hobie Cat is a stable, shallow-draft sailboat that offers smooth sailing over the calm waters of Saipan Lagoon. It’s especially ideal if you want to see Managaha Island up close while enjoying a hands-on sailing experience. Many reviewers say it’s the most relaxing activity they’ve done on the island — the perfect way to unwind after a busy day exploring or sightseeing.
The tour’s highlight is the chance to sail and snorkel, with opportunities to see turtles and lots of fish. The host, Tony, is praised for his friendly attitude and knowledge of the area. No prior sailing experience is needed, making this suitable for beginners and seasoned sailors alike.
Bottom Line: This activity offers a fun, laid-back way to enjoy Saipan’s lagoon and marine life, perfect for families, couples, or anyone who wants a quick but memorable maritime experience.
How to Choose
When deciding which tour fits your trip, consider your interests and timeframe. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, personalized history trip, the Saipan in a Day tour offers flexibility and deep stories. For history aficionados wanting a more in-depth and multi-island exploration, the 2-Day WWII Tour provides extensive insight into the Pacific theater. If your goal is relaxation and enjoying the water, the Hobie Cat Sailing Tour provides a breezy, enjoyable break from sightseeing.
Booking early is wise, especially for private tours with limited availability. If history is your passion, pairing the full-day tour with the WWII two-day experience creates a rich, layered understanding of Saipan. For a laid-back afternoon, the sailing trip guarantees a fun, stress-free excursion.
Final Thoughts
Saipan offers a range of tours that suit different interests and travel styles. History lovers will appreciate the detailed WWII and Earhart-related excursions, while those seeking relaxation will enjoy the sailing trips. For immersive, customized experiences, the private tours provide excellent value and personal attention.
Whether you want to walk through history, learn about the island’s legends, or simply enjoy a peaceful sail, Saipan’s diverse offerings won’t disappoint. Be sure to book your preferred tours early, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get the time slots that work best for your schedule. With so much to discover, your Saipan adventure awaits.