Best Places to Visit in the Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands, also known as The Marianas, are a remote Pacific island destination known for turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, World War II history, Chamorro and Carolinian culture, limestone cliffs, tropical beaches, cave dives, quiet island roads and relaxed village life. The main islands for visitors are Saipan, Tinian and Rota, with the more remote Northern Islands offering volcanic landscapes and largely undeveloped wilderness. The official Marianas Visitors Authority promotes Saipan, Tinian and Rota as destinations for history, outdoor adventure and relaxation in natural beauty. 1

For most travellers, Saipan is the main gateway and the easiest base. Tinian is close enough for an island-hop day trip or overnight stay, while Rota is quieter, greener and better suited to visitors who want a slower, less-developed island escape. Together, the islands offer a fascinating mix of beaches, snorkelling, diving, cultural sites, memorials, historic ruins and scenic coastal drives.

Why Visit the Northern Mariana Islands?

The Northern Mariana Islands are ideal for travellers who want a Pacific island holiday with history, culture and nature rather than a large resort-only experience. Saipan offers the widest range of hotels, restaurants, activities and shopping, while Tinian is known for historical sites and Rota for serene landscapes. Interisland travel between Saipan, Tinian and Rota is promoted by the Marianas Visitors Authority as part of the visitor experience. 2

The islands are especially rewarding for travellers interested in World War II history, reef snorkelling, scuba diving, quiet beaches, local food and Chamorro heritage. Saipan alone has evidence of ancient Chamorro settlement dating back thousands of years, Carolinian cultural traditions, latte stone ruins, pictographs, World War II remnants and a lagoon known for snorkelling and diving. 3

Best Places to Visit in the Northern Mariana Islands

Saipan

Saipan is the largest, most populated and most developed island in the Northern Mariana Islands. The Marianas Visitors Authority describes Saipan as the capital, principal island and major commercial centre of the archipelago, located about 120 miles north of Guam and about 5 nautical miles northeast of Tinian. 4

Saipan is the best base for first-time visitors because it has the most hotels, restaurants, beaches, shopping, tours, historic sites and transport options. Highlights include Garapan, Micro Beach, Managaha Island, The Grotto, Mount Tapochau, American Memorial Park, Banzai Cliff, Suicide Cliff, Bird Island Lookout, Forbidden Island, Obyan Beach and the island’s World War II memorial sites.

Best for: first-time visitors, beaches, diving, snorkelling, history, restaurants, shopping, nightlife and easy island touring.

Garapan

Garapan is the main visitor hub on Saipan. It has hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, beaches and nightlife, making it one of the easiest places to stay if you want restaurants and activities close by. The Marianas Visitors Authority describes Garapan as the epicentre of activities on Saipan, with restaurants, bars, shopping and resort hotels. 5

Garapan is also close to American Memorial Park, Micro Beach, Smiling Cove Marina and boat trips to Managaha Island.

Best for: accommodation, restaurants, nightlife, shopping, beach access and practical first-time stays.

Managaha Island

Managaha Island is one of the most popular day trips from Saipan. This small lagoon island is known for clear turquoise water, white sand, snorkelling, swimming, water activities and postcard-style views back toward Saipan.

Boats to Managaha commonly depart from the Saipan lagoon area, including near Smiling Cove Marina. The National Park Service notes that Smiling Cove Marina gives visitors an opportunity to visit Mañagaha Island or take a sunset cruise in the lagoon. 6

Best for: snorkelling, swimming, beach days, families, couples, water activities and classic Saipan photos.

The Grotto

The Grotto is one of Saipan’s most famous natural attractions and a major destination for snorkellers and scuba divers. It is a dramatic limestone sea cave with blue water, rock openings and access to the open ocean for experienced divers.

This is not a casual swimming pool. Conditions can change, waves can be dangerous, and the steps down to the water are steep. Go with a reputable guide if you are snorkelling or diving, especially if it is your first visit.

Best for: scuba diving, guided snorkelling, photography, limestone scenery and adventurous travellers.

American Memorial Park

American Memorial Park in Garapan is one of the most important historic sites in the Northern Mariana Islands. The National Park Service recommends setting aside one or two hours to visit, starting at the Visitor Center, watching the film, viewing exhibits about the 1944 Battle of Saipan, then walking to the Memorial Court of Honor, Flag Circle, Marianas Memorial, Carillon Bell Tower, World War II artifacts and Smiling Cove Marina. 7

The park is also close to Micro Beach and Garapan, so it is easy to include in a first-day Saipan itinerary.

Best for: World War II history, museums, memorials, walking, families and first-time Saipan visitors.

Micro Beach

Micro Beach is one of Saipan’s most accessible beaches, located near Garapan and American Memorial Park. The National Park Service describes Micro Beach as one of the finest windsurfing beaches in the Marianas. 8

It is a convenient beach for visitors staying in Garapan, especially for sunset walks, lagoon views and relaxed swimming when conditions are calm.

Best for: easy beach access, sunsets, swimming, windsurfing, families and Garapan-area stays.

Mount Tapochau

Mount Tapochau is one of the best viewpoints on Saipan. From the summit area, visitors can enjoy wide views across the island, lagoon, coastline and surrounding ocean.

The road can be rough in places depending on conditions, so check locally before driving. A guided island tour can be a good option if you do not want to navigate mountain roads yourself.

Best for: island views, photography, scenic drives, orientation and first-time Saipan sightseeing.

Banzai Cliff

Banzai Cliff is one of Saipan’s most sombre and historically significant coastal sites. Located on the island’s northern coast, it is connected to the final days of the Battle of Saipan during World War II.

Today, the area has memorials and dramatic ocean views. It should be visited respectfully, as it is both a scenic lookout and a place of tragedy.

Best for: World War II history, memorials, ocean views, photography and reflective travel.

Suicide Cliff

Suicide Cliff is another deeply significant World War II site in northern Saipan. Like Banzai Cliff, it is connected to tragic events at the end of the Battle of Saipan.

The elevated views are impressive, but the site is best approached as a memorial landscape rather than only a viewpoint.

Best for: history, memorial travel, scenic views, photography and northern Saipan itineraries.

Bird Island Lookout

Bird Island Lookout is one of Saipan’s most beautiful coastal viewpoints. It overlooks a small offshore islet, clear water and rugged coastline, making it a favourite photography stop on island tours.

Visit on a clear day for the best water colour and coastal views.

Best for: photography, coastal views, scenic drives, nature stops and easy sightseeing.

Forbidden Island

Forbidden Island is one of Saipan’s most dramatic natural areas, known for rugged coastal scenery and challenging hiking. The area is beautiful but can be difficult and exposed, especially in heat or after rain.

Travellers should only attempt the hike with good footwear, plenty of water and reliable local advice. A guide is recommended if you are unfamiliar with the route.

Best for: hiking, rugged scenery, adventure, photography and experienced walkers.

Obyan Beach

Obyan Beach is a quieter beach area on Saipan, known for coral, reef scenery, clear water and a more natural feel than the busier resort beaches.

It is a good place for a scenic stop, but reef and current conditions matter. Wear reef shoes and avoid stepping on coral.

Best for: quiet beach scenery, snorkelling in suitable conditions, photography and relaxed coastal stops.

Ladder Beach

Ladder Beach is another scenic beach on Saipan with limestone cliffs, sand, rock formations and a more rugged feel. It is less developed than the main visitor beaches and is best visited when conditions are calm.

As with many beaches in the Marianas, check currents and surf before swimming.

Best for: photography, coastal scenery, quiet beach stops and scenic drives.

Tinian

Tinian is a neighbouring island south of Saipan and is easy to include as an island-hop trip. The Marianas Visitors Authority describes Tinian as about 5 nautical miles southwest of Saipan, with a land area of 39 square miles and a highest elevation at Mount Lasso. 9

Tinian is known for quiet beaches, snorkelling, diving, fishing, limestone cliffs, caves, ancient Chamorro sites and major World War II history. The island has a very different feel from Saipan: slower, less developed and rich in historic atmosphere.

Best for: island hopping, World War II history, quiet beaches, ancient Chamorro sites, snorkelling and relaxed exploration.

House of Taga

The House of Taga is one of Tinian’s most important cultural sites. The Marianas Visitors Authority describes it as the ruins of the largest standing latte stones in The Marianas and notes that it is one of the sites in the region listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. 10

Latte stones are strongly associated with ancient Chamorro architecture and culture. A visit to the House of Taga is one of the best ways to connect with pre-colonial history in the islands.

Best for: Chamorro history, archaeology, cultural travel, photography and Tinian sightseeing.

Atomic Bomb Pits

The Atomic Bomb Pits are among Tinian’s most historically significant World War II sites. The Marianas Visitors Authority notes that Tinian contains World War II relics including the Atomic Bomb Pits used to load the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and that Tinian had one of the busiest airfields in the world during World War II. 11

This is a powerful and serious site that should be visited with care and historical awareness.

Best for: World War II history, military history, educational travel and reflective sightseeing.

Taga Beach

Taga Beach is one of Tinian’s prettiest beach spots, known for clear water, limestone scenery and a quieter atmosphere than many Saipan beaches.

It is a good place to relax, take photos and enjoy Tinian’s slower island pace. Check water conditions before swimming.

Best for: beach time, swimming in calm conditions, photography, couples and quiet relaxation.

Chulu Beach

Chulu Beach is another Tinian coastal stop, connected to wartime history and beach scenery. It is often included on island tours because it combines coastline, quiet views and historical context.

Best for: coastal history, quiet beaches, photography and Tinian island drives.

Rota

Rota is the southernmost main island of The Marianas and lies about 40 nautical miles north-northeast of Guam. The Marianas Visitors Authority describes Rota as “The World’s Friendliest Island,” known for unspoiled nature, warm hospitality, Swimming Hole, Chenchon Bird Sanctuary, Wedding Cake Mountain, Tweksberry Beach and local foods such as coconut crabs and sweet potatoes. 12

Rota is quieter than Saipan and Tinian, making it ideal for travellers who prefer nature, local life, birdwatching, diving, historic sites and scenic roads over nightlife and shopping.

Best for: quiet island stays, nature, birdwatching, diving, history, local culture and slow travel.

Swimming Hole

Swimming Hole is one of Rota’s best-known coastal attractions. The Marianas Visitors Authority describes it as a natural pool refreshed by sea waves. 13

It is a scenic and refreshing stop when conditions are safe, but visitors should still pay attention to tide, waves and local advice.

Best for: natural pools, coastal scenery, photography, families and relaxed Rota sightseeing.

Chenchon Bird Sanctuary

Chenchon Bird Sanctuary is one of Rota’s key nature sites. The Marianas Visitors Authority highlights it as a place to view endemic bird species. 14

Bring binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching, and visit quietly to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Best for: birdwatching, nature, photography, quiet walks and Rota eco-travel.

As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry

As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry is one of Rota’s most important cultural sites. The Marianas Visitors Authority identifies it as a U.S. National Landmark where half-carved latte stones remain in place, giving visitors a rare look at ancient Chamorro stonework. 15

This is one of the best places in the Northern Mariana Islands to understand the scale, skill and mystery of latte stone construction.

Best for: Chamorro history, archaeology, cultural travel, photography and Rota sightseeing.

Tonga Cave

Tonga Cave is one of Rota’s historic cave sites and is listed by the Marianas Visitors Authority among the island’s downloadable tourist sites. 16

It is often associated with World War II history and local island stories, making it a useful stop for travellers interested in Rota beyond beaches.

Best for: history, caves, local stories, photography and cultural sightseeing.

Tweksberry Beach

Tweksberry Beach is one of Rota’s scenic coastal areas and is highlighted by the Marianas Visitors Authority as one of the island’s picturesque natural backdrops. 17

It is a good place for photography, beach walks and quiet coastal scenery rather than a busy resort-style beach experience.

Best for: quiet beach scenery, photography, coastal drives and peaceful island travel.

Wedding Cake Mountain

Wedding Cake Mountain is one of Rota’s signature scenic landmarks, named for its tiered appearance. The Marianas Visitors Authority lists it among the island’s picturesque backdrops. 18

It adds a distinctive landscape feature to a Rota road trip and is best appreciated as part of a slow scenic drive around the island.

Best for: scenic views, photography, island drives and Rota sightseeing.

The Northern Islands

The Northern Islands are the remote volcanic islands north of Saipan. The Marianas Visitors Authority describes them as largely uninhabited and volcanic in origin, including Farallon de Medinilla, Anatahan, Sarigan, Guguan, Alamagan, Pagan, Agrihan, Asuncion, Maug Islands and Farallon de Pajaros. 19

These islands are not typical tourist destinations. They are mostly accessed by private vessels and are best understood as remote, wild and difficult-to-reach landscapes rather than casual holiday stops. The tourism authority describes the Northern Islands as a sanctuary of pristine landscapes, vibrant marine life, black sand beaches and active volcanoes. 20

Best for: remote expedition travel, volcanic landscapes, marine life, private-vessel adventure and specialist travellers.

Best Beaches in the Northern Mariana Islands

• Managaha Island: Best for turquoise lagoon water, snorkelling, swimming and classic Saipan beach photos.
• Micro Beach: Best for easy Garapan access, sunsets and relaxed beach walks.
• Obyan Beach: Best for quieter scenery, reef views and less-developed beach atmosphere.
• Ladder Beach: Best for limestone scenery, photos and rugged coastal views.
• Taga Beach: Best for clear water and a quiet Tinian beach experience.
• Chulu Beach: Best for Tinian coastal history and peaceful island scenery.
• Swimming Hole: Best for Rota’s natural coastal pool setting.
• Tweksberry Beach: Best for quiet Rota beach scenery and photography.

Best Historical and Cultural Places in the Northern Mariana Islands

• American Memorial Park: Best for understanding the 1944 Battle of Saipan and visiting memorials, exhibits and World War II artifacts. 21
• House of Taga: Best for ancient Chamorro latte stone history on Tinian. 22
• Atomic Bomb Pits: Best for serious World War II history on Tinian. 23
• Banzai Cliff: Best for reflective World War II memorial travel and dramatic ocean views.
• Suicide Cliff: Best for northern Saipan history and panoramic views.
• As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry: Best for ancient Chamorro stonework and archaeology on Rota. 24
• Chugai Pictographs: Best for Rota cultural heritage and ancient island stories.
• Japanese Cannon and World War II cave sites: Best for understanding the wartime history of Saipan, Tinian and Rota.

Best Outdoor Adventures in the Northern Mariana Islands

• Snorkel at Managaha Island: Enjoy clear lagoon water and reef scenery on Saipan’s most popular island day trip.
• Dive or snorkel The Grotto: Visit one of Saipan’s most famous limestone cave and ocean sites with a suitable guide.
• Hike Forbidden Island: Take on one of Saipan’s more adventurous coastal hikes with proper preparation.
• Drive to Mount Tapochau: Enjoy one of the best panoramic views on Saipan.
• Explore Tinian’s historic roads: Visit ancient latte stones, quiet beaches and World War II airfield sites.
• Birdwatch on Rota: Visit Chenchon Bird Sanctuary and other quiet nature areas.
• Visit Rota’s Swimming Hole: Enjoy a scenic natural pool when ocean conditions are safe.
• Go reef diving: The Marianas are known for underwater scenery, dive sites, wrecks and clear water. 25

Best Scenic Drives in the Northern Mariana Islands

• Saipan north coast drive: Best for Banzai Cliff, Suicide Cliff, Bird Island Lookout and rugged ocean views.
• Saipan lagoon and Garapan route: Best for beaches, American Memorial Park, Micro Beach and Managaha access.
• Mount Tapochau drive: Best for panoramic island views and orientation.
• Tinian historic route: Best for House of Taga, World War II airfield history, quiet beaches and island scenery.
• Rota coastal and village drive: Best for Swimming Hole, Wedding Cake Mountain, Tweksberry Beach, birdwatching and historic sites.

Best Places in the Northern Mariana Islands for Families

• Garapan: Best for easy accommodation, restaurants, shops and access to Micro Beach.
• American Memorial Park: Best for educational history, walking and family-friendly sightseeing.
• Managaha Island: Best for a family beach day, swimming and snorkelling in suitable conditions.
• Micro Beach: Best for an easy beach stop close to hotels and restaurants.
• Mount Tapochau: Best for scenic views without a long hike.
• Tinian: Best for older children interested in history, quiet roads and island hopping.
• Rota: Best for nature-loving families who want a slower, quieter island stay.

Best Places in the Northern Mariana Islands for Food Lovers

• Garapan: Best for the widest mix of restaurants, bars, cafes, hotel dining and nightlife.
• Saipan markets and festivals: Best for traditional foods, local crafts and cultural events. The Marianas Visitors Authority notes that local festivals celebrate Chamorro, Carolinian and international traditions through song, dance, crafts and food. 26
• Tinian: Best for quiet local dining and island-style meals after sightseeing.
• Rota: Best for local delicacies, slower village-style food experiences and island hospitality. The Marianas Visitors Authority specifically highlights coconut crabs and sweet potatoes among Rota’s local delicacies. 27

Northern Mariana Islands Foods and Local Specialties to Try

• Red rice: A classic Chamorro side dish often served at local meals and gatherings.
• Chicken kelaguen: A tangy Chamorro dish often made with lemon, coconut, chilli and green onion.
• Barbecue: Island-style grilled meats are common at markets, festivals and local food spots.
• Coconut crab: A local delicacy associated especially with Rota, subject to availability and regulations.
• Sweet potatoes: Highlighted as one of Rota’s local foods. 28
• Fresh seafood: Look for fish, reef seafood and local-style preparations.
• Tropical fruit: Depending on season, look for banana, papaya, mango and coconut.
• Local festival food: Cultural events are a good way to experience Chamorro and Carolinian flavours.

Best Time to Visit the Northern Mariana Islands

Saipan has a tropical marine climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The National Park Service notes that annual temperatures vary minimally, the dry season is generally December through June, and the rainy season, with the possibility of typhoons, occurs from July through November. 29

• December to June: Generally the easier period for beach days, diving, snorkelling, hiking and scenic drives.
• July to November: Wetter and more humid, with higher risk of storms or typhoon disruption.
• Year-round: Cultural sites, World War II sites, restaurants and many island drives can still be enjoyed with flexible planning.

The Marianas Visitors Authority currently displays a typhoon recovery advisory and encourages travellers to confirm flight status and service availability directly with airlines, hotels and providers before departure. 30

Suggested 5-Day Northern Mariana Islands Itinerary

Day 1: Garapan, Micro Beach and American Memorial Park

Start in Garapan. Visit American Memorial Park, walk to Micro Beach, explore local restaurants and get your bearings around the main visitor area.

Day 2: Managaha Island

Take a boat trip to Managaha Island for swimming, snorkelling, beach time and lagoon views. Return to Saipan for sunset and dinner in Garapan.

Day 3: Northern Saipan Scenic Drive

Explore northern Saipan. Visit Bird Island Lookout, Banzai Cliff, Suicide Cliff, The Grotto and other coastal viewpoints. Add Mount Tapochau if road and weather conditions are suitable.

Day 4: Tinian Day Trip

Fly or travel to Tinian for House of Taga, the Atomic Bomb Pits, quiet beaches and World War II airfield sites. Stay overnight if you want a slower experience.

Day 5: Saipan Beaches or Cultural Stops

Spend your final day at Obyan Beach, Ladder Beach, Garapan shops, local markets or a guided snorkelling or diving experience.

Longer 7 to 10-Day Northern Mariana Islands Itinerary

• Day 1: Garapan, American Memorial Park, Micro Beach and local dining.
• Day 2: Managaha Island snorkelling and lagoon activities.
• Day 3: Northern Saipan drive, The Grotto, Bird Island, Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff.
• Day 4: Mount Tapochau, Obyan Beach, Ladder Beach and southern Saipan scenery.
• Day 5: Tinian, including House of Taga, Atomic Bomb Pits, Taga Beach and World War II sites.
• Day 6: Extra Tinian beach day or return to Saipan.
• Days 7 to 9: Rota, including Swimming Hole, Chenchon Bird Sanctuary, As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry, Tonga Cave and scenic coastal drives.
• Day 10: Return to Saipan with buffer time for interisland schedule changes.

Travel Tips for Visiting the Northern Mariana Islands

• Base yourself on Saipan first: It has the most accommodation, restaurants, transport and visitor services.
• Confirm flights and services: Current tourism advisories recommend checking directly with airlines, hotels and providers before departure. 31
• Build in buffer days: Interisland flights and weather can affect plans for Tinian and Rota.
• Respect memorial sites: Many cliffs, caves, beaches and airfield areas are connected to World War II tragedy.
• Protect the reef: Do not stand on coral, remove marine life or touch fragile underwater ecosystems.
• Use guides for difficult sites: The Grotto, Forbidden Island and some cave or coastal areas are safer with local guidance.
• Pack sun protection: The National Park Service recommends sunscreen or UV-protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses, hydration and rest in shade. 32
• Carry cash: Smaller operators, taxis or local vendors may not always accept cards.
• Drive carefully: Roads can be narrow, steep, wet or rough in some areas.
• Learn basic local etiquette: Chamorro and Carolinian cultures are central to the islands, so dress respectfully away from beaches and ask before photographing people or private property.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in the Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands are a rewarding destination for travellers who want Pacific island scenery with cultural depth and historic significance. Saipan offers the easiest first visit, with beaches, restaurants, memorials, markets, diving, snorkelling and scenic drives. Tinian adds quiet beaches, ancient latte stones and powerful World War II history, while Rota offers a slower, greener and more nature-focused escape.

For a first visit, focus on Saipan, including Garapan, American Memorial Park, Micro Beach, Managaha Island, The Grotto, Mount Tapochau, Bird Island Lookout, Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff. With more time, add Tinian for House of Taga and the Atomic Bomb Pits, then Rota for Swimming Hole, Chenchon Bird Sanctuary, As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry, Tonga Cave and quiet coastal scenery.

Whether you are planning a beach holiday, diving trip, history-focused journey, cultural escape or multi-island adventure, the Northern Mariana Islands offer a rare blend of tropical beauty, Chamorro and Carolinian heritage, and Pacific history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Northern Mariana Islands

What is the prettiest place in the Northern Mariana Islands?

Some of the prettiest places in the Northern Mariana Islands include Managaha Island, The Grotto, Bird Island Lookout, Mount Tapochau, Micro Beach, Taga Beach on Tinian, Swimming Hole on Rota and Tweksberry Beach on Rota.

What are the Northern Mariana Islands best known for?

The Northern Mariana Islands are best known for Saipan, Managaha Island, The Grotto, World War II history, Chamorro and Carolinian culture, coral reefs, diving, snorkelling, latte stone sites, Tinian’s Atomic Bomb Pits and Rota’s quiet natural scenery.

Is Saipan the best island for first-time visitors?

Yes. Saipan is usually the best island for first-time visitors because it has the most hotels, restaurants, activities, tours, shopping and transport options. It is also the main gateway for trips to Tinian and Rota.

How many days do you need in the Northern Mariana Islands?

Five days is enough for a Saipan-focused trip with Managaha Island, American Memorial Park, The Grotto, Mount Tapochau and northern island viewpoints. Seven to ten days is better if you want to add Tinian and Rota.

What is the best time to visit the Northern Mariana Islands?

The dry season from December through June is generally the easiest time to visit for beaches, snorkelling, diving and scenic drives. The rainy season runs from July through November and can include typhoon risk. 33

Can you visit Tinian from Saipan?

Yes. Tinian is promoted as an easy island-hop from Saipan, and the Marianas Visitors Authority provides interisland travel information for Saipan, Tinian and Rota. 34

Can you visit Rota from Saipan?

Yes. Rota is accessible from Saipan by interisland travel, but schedules and availability should be checked before planning. Rota is quieter and better suited to travellers who want nature, local scenery and slow exploration. 35

Are the Northern Mariana Islands good for families?

Yes, especially Saipan. Families can enjoy Garapan, Micro Beach, Managaha Island, American Memorial Park, scenic viewpoints, island drives and calm-water beach activities when conditions are suitable.

Are the Northern Mariana Islands good for diving?

Yes. The Marianas are known for underwater scenery, coral reefs, wrecks, clear water and dive sites, with Saipan’s lagoon and The Grotto among the best-known visitor areas. 36

What should I pack for the Northern Mariana Islands?

Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, sandals, reef shoes, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, modest clothing for villages and memorial sites, and sturdy shoes for hikes or cave areas.