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Forbidden Island in the Northern Mariana Islands offers Saipan day trips, rugged Pacific scenery, sea caves, coastal hiking and wildlife-rich waters nearby.

A Small Island with a Wild Character

Forbidden Island is an uninhabited islet off the south-eastern coast of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, a short distance from the main island yet markedly different in character. Its pale limestone cliffs, irregular shoreline, sea caves and exposed rock shelves face the open Pacific, while the surrounding water shifts between deep blue channels and lighter coastal shallows. There are no permanent residents, shops, roads or visitor facilities on Forbidden Island, so it is best understood as a natural excursion rather than a self-contained resort destination.

Coastline, Water and Wildlife

The island’s appeal lies in its sense of exposure and isolation. Depending on sea conditions, visitors may view it from a boat, approach by kayak or explore parts of the coast with an experienced local guide; landing and swimming should never be assumed safe or permitted in every condition. Cliffs, surge, currents and sharp limestone require considerable care. The surrounding waters support the marine life associated with Saipan’s tropical reef environment, although wildlife sightings are seasonal and never guaranteed. Visitors should avoid disturbing seabirds, nesting areas and intertidal life.

Gateway on Saipan

Forbidden Island is reached through south-eastern Saipan, generally by road from the island’s settled areas and then by an arranged coastal excursion or a carefully assessed shore approach. The nearby Saipan landscape adds cultural and historical depth: Chamorro and Carolinian traditions remain central to the Northern Mariana Islands, while Saipan’s coastline also carries the marks of the Second World War. For visitors, Forbidden Island is primarily a quiet, weather-dependent encounter with limestone coast and open ocean, not a place for conventional sightseeing infrastructure.

When is the best time to visit Forbidden Island?

Best: January–March · 29°C

Best 29° Temperature Range for JanuaryLow: 24.1°C, High: 28.9°C Precipitation Range for JanuaryLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm J

Best 29° Temperature Range for FebruaryLow: 24.2°C, High: 29°C Precipitation Range for FebruaryLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm F

Best 29° Temperature Range for MarchLow: 24.3°C, High: 29.1°C Precipitation Range for MarchLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm M

29° Temperature Range for AprilLow: 24.4°C, High: 29.2°C Precipitation Range for AprilLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm A

29° Temperature Range for MayLow: 24.5°C, High: 29.3°C Precipitation Range for MayLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm M

29° Temperature Range for JuneLow: 24.6°C, High: 29.4°C Precipitation Range for JuneLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm J

30° Temperature Range for JulyLow: 24.7°C, High: 29.5°C Precipitation Range for JulyLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm J

30° Temperature Range for AugustLow: 24.8°C, High: 29.6°C Precipitation Range for AugustLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm A

30° Temperature Range for SeptemberLow: 24.9°C, High: 29.7°C Precipitation Range for SeptemberLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm S

30° Temperature Range for OctoberLow: 25°C, High: 29.8°C Precipitation Range for OctoberLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm O

30° Temperature Range for NovemberLow: 25.1°C, High: 29.9°C Precipitation Range for NovemberLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm N

30° Temperature Range for DecemberLow: 25.2°C, High: 30°C Precipitation Range for DecemberLow: 50 mm, High: 150 mm D

Average daytime high and rainfall by month
Month	High (°C)	Rainfall (mm)
January (best)	29	100
February (best)	29	100
March (best)	29	100
April	29	100
May	29	100
June	29	100
July	30	100
August	30	100
September	30	100
October	30	100
November	30	100
December	30	100

Getting to and around Forbidden Island

How to get there

Forbidden Island has no airport, road or scheduled public transport. Visitors normally reach it through Saipan, the main inhabited island and transport hub of the Northern Mariana Islands, arriving by air at Saipan International Airport before travelling overland towards the south-eastern coast. The final approach is not a conventional arrival at a staffed attraction: it may involve a locally arranged boat or kayak excursion, or a shore route assessed according to conditions. Because access can vary with surf, tide, weather and local restrictions, confirm the current approach with a reputable Saipan-based guide or the relevant local authorities before setting out.

Transportation

There is no transport network on Forbidden Island itself and no reliable assumption should be made that a landing is possible. On Saipan, a hire car is generally the most flexible way to reach southern and south-eastern coastal viewpoints, while taxis and arranged transfers may be useful for visitors who prefer not to drive; exact availability depends on location and timing. Water access requires suitable equipment, experience and conditions, and should be arranged through a competent local operator rather than improvised around exposed cliffs or caves. Do not leave vehicles or supplies unattended at isolated coastal access points, and allow extra time for changing weather.

Best attractions in Forbidden Island

Historical landmark

Last Japanese Command Post

Discover the Last Japanese Command Post, a historical landmark in Saipan that unveils the rich military history of World War II in the Northern Mariana Islands.

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Explore Forbidden Island on the map

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Best bars in Forbidden Island

There is no nightlife on Forbidden Island: after dark it has no lighting, venues, accommodation or staffed facilities. Evening entertainment is found on Saipan, particularly in and around the island’s settled areas, where visitors may encounter hotel bars, casual drinking places, karaoke and occasional live or cultural events. The atmosphere is generally more relaxed than that of a major resort city, and availability can vary by season and venue. Traditional or locally influenced hospitality is more characteristic of an evening on Saipan than a dedicated night out on the islet. Anyone planning a coastal visit should return well before darkness unless part of a specifically arranged and appropriately equipped activity, since the island’s cliffs, rocks and changing sea conditions make unauthorised night access particularly unsuitable.

Island 4.3 (29 reviews)

Forbidden Island

Explore the untouched beauty of Forbidden Island, a hidden gem in the Northern Mariana Islands, perfect for adventure and tranquility.

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Best shops in Forbidden Island

Forbidden Island has no shops or retail facilities, and visitors should purchase water, food, sun protection and any specialist equipment on Saipan before travelling to the coast. Shopping opportunities are concentrated in Saipan’s settled areas, especially around Garapan and other commercial parts of the island, where visitors can look for groceries, practical outdoor supplies, locally made gifts and products connected with Chamorro and Carolinian culture. Souvenirs may include regional food products, artwork and island-themed crafts, although stock and availability vary. The most responsible purchases are those that support local makers without involving coral, shells, archaeological material or wildlife products. There is no opportunity to buy supplies after crossing the water, and everything carried to the island must be brought back out, including packaging and unused food.

Island 4.3 (29 reviews)

Forbidden Island

Explore Forbidden Island in the Northern Mariana Islands, a hidden gem of stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage waiting to be uncovered.

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Forbidden Island essentials

Currency and Payment

The currency is the United States dollar (USD). Card and contactless payments are commonly used by larger businesses and established tourism providers on Saipan, but visitors should not expect facilities on Forbidden Island or universal acceptance in small, independent businesses. Carry enough cash for incidental purchases, transport contingencies and places where connectivity or card equipment may be limited, while keeping essential funds secure. Saipan is the practical place to obtain water, food and cash before an excursion; there are no shops, cash machines or payment facilities on the island.

Safety

Forbidden Island is an exposed, uninhabited coastal environment where conditions can change quickly. Surf, currents, swell, wet limestone, unstable footing, sharp rock and sea-cave surge can make an apparently simple approach hazardous, especially during poor weather or a rising tide. Do not climb cliffs, enter caves or swim away from shore without appropriate local guidance and conditions. Sun, heat and dehydration are also significant considerations. Mobile coverage and assistance should not be assumed at every coastal point, so tell someone on Saipan where you are going, carry water and follow local advice rather than treating photographs or informal routes as safety instructions.

Emergency Situations

Call 911 in the Northern Mariana Islands for police, fire or medical emergencies and state clearly that the incident is on or near Forbidden Island, giving the nearest known point on Saipan, your group’s position, the access route and any visible landmarks. Emergency response can be more complicated across open water and around isolated cliffs than in a settled area, so do not rely on self-rescue or attempt a dangerous recovery. Keep a phone protected from water, check its battery before departure and provide an itinerary to a responsible person on Saipan. For non-urgent medical needs, seek current local guidance on Saipan rather than assuming facilities are available at the destination.

Do's and Don'ts

Do follow local guidance, remain on appropriate access routes, take all rubbish away and keep a respectful distance from seabirds, marine life and tide-pool habitats. Do not remove coral, shells, rock or archaeological material, and do not feed wildlife or leave food waste behind. Avoid entering restricted or unstable areas, crossing private land without permission or approaching the island when surf and wind make the route unsafe. The destination has no residents to provide services, so visitors must carry out everything they bring in. Respect Chamorro and Carolinian cultural heritage on Saipan by observing local customs and asking before photographing people or community activities.

Local Tips

Treat Forbidden Island as a weather-dependent coastal experience rather than a guaranteed landing. Staying on Saipan gives access to supplies, communications and alternative viewpoints if the sea is unsuitable. A local guide can provide more reliable advice on the day’s tide, swell, route and wildlife sensitivity than a fixed itinerary can. Early planning is useful for water-based excursions, but flexibility is more important than forcing a departure. Visitors who cannot approach safely can still appreciate the island from suitable Saipan viewpoints, while the surrounding south-eastern coast offers a broader understanding of its exposed limestone setting.

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics

English	Local	Say it
Hello	Håfa Adai	[HA-fa AH-dye]
Goodbye	Adios	[ah-dyohs]
Yes	Åmen	[AH-men]
No	Ti	[tee]
Please/You're welcome	Un dankulu	[oon DAHN-koo-loo]
Thank you	Si Yu'us Ma'åse	[see YOO-oos mah-AH-seh]
Excuse me/Sorry	Dispensa	[dees-PEHN-sah]
How are you?	Kei na'ån-hu?	[kay NAH-ahn-hoo]
Fine. And you?	Maolek. Hao si Yu'us?	[mah-OH-lek. hao see YOO-oos]
Do you speak English?	Kao maolek na'ån-hu?	[kow mah-OH-lek NAH-ahn-hoo]
I don't understand	Ti hu fanå'åsi	[tee hoo fah-nah-AH-see]

Eating & Drinking

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to see the menu, please	Kao un hanao i menu, un dankulu	[kow oon hah-NOW ee MEH-noo, oon DAHN-koo-loo]
I don't eat meat	Ti ha na'åmon karne	[tee hah nah-AH-mon KAR-neh]
Cheers!	Biba!	[BEE-bah]
I would like to pay, please	Kao un hanao i che'lu, un dankulu	[kow oon hah-NOW ee CHE-loo, oon DAHN-koo-loo]

Emergencies

English	Local	Say it
Help!	Ayudame!	[ah-yoo-DAH-meh]
Go away!	Lågu!	[LAH-goo]
Call the Police!	Tåkkure polisia!	[TAH-koo-reh poh-lee-SEE-ah]
Call a doctor!	Tåkkure na doktå!	[TAH-koo-reh nah dohk-TAH]
I'm lost	Hu fanå'åsi	[hoo fah-nah-AH-see]
I'm ill	Hu infekkåo	[hoo een-fehk-KAH-oh]

Shopping

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to buy...	Kao un hanao i...	[kow oon hah-NOW ee...]
I'm just looking	Hu un tumåhalo	[hoo oon too-mah-HAH-loh]
How much is it?	Fino' para?	[FEE-noh PAH-rah]
That's too expensive	Må'pos na taotao	[mah-OH-pose nah TAH-oh-tao]
Can you lower the price?	Må'pos na kuentusi?	[mah-OH-pose nah kwehn-TOO-see]

Time & Numbers

English	Local	Say it
What time is it?	Kåo na tiempo?	[KOW oh-nah tee-EHM-poh]
It's one o'clock	Estague i unu	[eh-stah-GWEH ee OO-noo]
Half past (10)	Månona (10)	[mah-NOH-nah (tee)]
Morning	Manana	[mah-NAH-nah]
Afternoon	Agupa'	[ah-GOO-pah]
Evening	Aga'	[ah-GAH]
Yesterday	Kåo na adalå?	[KOW oh-nah ah-dah-LAH]
Today	Kåo na u fa'na'gua'	[KOW oh-nah oo fah-nah-GWAH]
Tomorrow	Kåo na u manana	[KOW oh-nah oo mah-NAH-nah]
1	Mås Uno	[mahs OO-noh]
2	Mås Dos	[mahs Dohs]
3	Mås Tres	[mahs Tres]
4	Mås Kuåtro	[mahs KWAH-tro]
5	Mås Singko	[mahs SEENG-koh]
6	Mås Sais	[mahs Sah-eess]
7	Mås Siete	[mahs SYEH-teh]
8	Mås Ocho	[mahs OH-choh]
9	Mås Nueve	[mahs NWEH-veh]
10	Mås Dje	[mahs DJEH]

Transport & Directions

English	Local	Say it
Where's a/the...?	Siha...	[SEE-hah...]
What's the address?	Kåo na direksion?	[KOW oh-nah dee-rehk-SYON]
Can you show me (on the map)?	Mamesa hao (sångan litratu)?	[mah-MEH-sah how (sahng-AHN lee-trah-TOO)]
When's the next (bus)?	Kåo na siguiente (bus)?	[KOW oh-nah see-GWEN-teh (boos)]
A ticket (to ....)	Un bilette (para ...)	[oon bee-LEH-teh (PAH-rah ...)]

History of Forbidden Island

Limestone Island and Pacific Coast

Forbidden Island belongs to the limestone coastal landscape of Saipan and the wider Mariana island arc, shaped by marine geological processes rather than by human construction. Its cliffs, shelves and cavities reflect the porous character of uplifted limestone exposed to waves, weather and tropical rainfall. The island’s physical form has always influenced how it can be approached: unlike a settled coastal village, it offers no naturally developed transport network or permanent harbour infrastructure. Geological change therefore provides the essential first chapter of its history, explaining both its stark appearance and the limited ways in which people can safely reach its shore.

Chamorro and Carolinian Seascapes

The island should be understood within the maritime world of the Northern Mariana Islands, whose history is rooted in Chamorro culture and later enriched by Carolinian communities. Saipan’s surrounding waters were not empty spaces but part of a wider seascape used for travel, fishing and the exchange of knowledge between islands. Surviving cultural traditions, language, foodways and relationships with the ocean are most visible on inhabited Saipan rather than on Forbidden Island itself. The islet has no documented permanent settlement comparable to Saipan’s villages, and its modern name reflects its difficult, exposed character rather than a separate urban or political history.

Saipan in War and the Modern Era

Forbidden Island sits beside Saipan, an island whose twentieth-century history was profoundly affected by Japanese rule, the Battle of Saipan in 1944 and the wider Pacific War. The celebrated wartime sites are on Saipan proper, not on Forbidden Island, but the islet forms part of the same historical landscape of reefs, bays and coastal approaches. After the war, Saipan developed as the principal population, administrative and tourism centre of the Northern Mariana Islands. Forbidden Island remained uninhabited, increasingly valued as a scenic coastal feature and excursion setting rather than as a site of permanent development.

Nature, Recreation and Stewardship

In the contemporary period, Forbidden Island has become associated with sightseeing, photography, swimming and small-scale coastal adventures arranged from Saipan, although access depends strongly on tides, surf, weather and local judgement. Its lack of buildings preserves a markedly different atmosphere from Saipan’s developed shoreline. Responsible visitation is particularly important on an island with no waste services, no fresh water and sensitive intertidal and bird habitat. Conservation-minded practice means taking all rubbish away, avoiding wildlife disturbance and declining approaches that become hazardous as sea conditions change.

Forbidden Island in Photos

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