Paradise in the Philippine Sea

The largest and most populous island (by far) is Saipan; five miles to the southwest is Tinian, and further southwest is the more isolated Rota. All are known for outdoor activities, especially golf; the islands have many oceanfront courses. Diving is also a favourite pastime, as the islands are home to many coral reefs, as well as World War II shipwrecks, underwater caverns and a spot where eagle rays are known to congregate. The three-mile Saipan Beach Pathway is an ideal spot to take a long walk (or ‘boonie stomp’, as locals call it). And if you just want to lie on a white sandy beach, you’ll have plenty of chances to do that, too.