Saipan offers a diverse selection of dive sites that combine pristine coral reefs, dramatic underwater terrain, and historically significant wrecks. Many sites are accessible from shore or via short boat rides, making the island suitable for both beginner and experienced divers.
Best Dive Spots for Experienced Divers
The Grotto is Saipan’s most famous dive site and is considered a must-dive for experienced divers. This natural limestone cavern connects to the open ocean through a series of underwater tunnels and openings. Strong surge and depth changes can occur, but the reward is spectacular blue water, excellent visibility, and encounters with reef sharks and large pelagic fish.
Puntan Patan features steep walls and deep drop-offs that appeal to advanced divers. The site offers dramatic scenery, strong currents at times, and sightings of sharks, rays, and large schools of fish. It is especially popular for drift diving and wide-angle photography.
Japanese Shipwrecks from World War II lie scattered around Saipan’s coastline. These deeper wrecks attract experienced divers interested in historical exploration. Many are encrusted with coral and sponges and are home to schools of fish, moray eels, and other marine life.
Best Dive Spots for Beginners
Lao Lao Bay is one of the most beginner-friendly dive sites in Saipan. With easy shore access, shallow depths, and calm conditions, it is ideal for training dives and newly certified divers. The bay features coral gardens, sandy patches, and abundant reef fish.
Obyan Beach offers gentle slopes, excellent visibility, and minimal current, making it another popular choice for beginners. Divers can enjoy relaxed reef dives with frequent sightings of turtles, rays, and colorful tropical fish.
Wing Beach provides shallow reef structures and sheltered conditions that are well suited for novice divers. The site is known for clear water, healthy coral, and easy navigation, allowing beginners to gain confidence while enjoying Saipan’s underwater beauty.