(MVA) — From dramatic coastal cliffs and hidden beaches to scenic overlooks and jungle trails, the Marianas’ natural beauty is arguably the destination’s strongest tourism asset.
As recovery efforts continue following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the Marianas Visitors Authority is working with tourism partners and volunteers to restore access to some of the islands’ most iconic outdoor attractions and reconnect visitors with the islands’ unique natural environment.
“Nature is one of the defining elements of the Marianas Far From Ordinary brand,” said MVA Community Projects Manager Martin Duenas. “Visitors come here to experience places they can’t find at home — our beaches, our trails, our 360-degree ocean views. As we rebrand and rebuild tourism, it is important to further develop experiences and products that allow visitors to engage with nature, like our trails.”
To introduce more visitors and locals to some of the Marianas’ trails, MVA will host the Bird Island Trail Fun Hike in Marpi on Saturday (June 27) beginning at 8 a.m. Registration opens at 7 a.m. Water and light refreshments will be provided, while participants are asked to bring their own water bottles. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The hike will be self-guided, and the first 20 participants will receive a Marianas eco bag and cooling towel.
Earlier this month, MVA partnered with the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services to clear the trail, which sustained significant storm impacts. The trail leads to one of Saipan’s most recognizable viewpoints, offering sweeping views of Bird Island, an important seabird habitat. Local hiker Bill Hardwood, known for his many Saipan treks and accompanying social media posts, also lent a hand on June 12.
DFEMS also assisted with clearing efforts on the trail to Old Man by the Sea in Talofofo, a beach known for its distinctive rock formation and reef-crashing waves near shore, making it a favorite stop for photographers, hikers, and sightseers exploring Saipan’s eastern coastline. Other sites with restored access include Jeffrey’s Beach, Laderan Tank, and the trail to what is colloquially called Honey Comb Cave.
“Every trail reopened and every scenic site restored helps strengthen the visitor experience while also preserving the places that make the Marianas special,” said Duenas. “It would be awesome for visitors to find these sites clearly marked and with interpretative signage developed by relevant agencies that highlight the distinct historic and environmental features of each Far From Ordinary place.”
The trail restoration effort reflects MVA’s broader call to upgrade the visitor experience through destination stewardship and community engagement. Nature-based tourism — including watersports, sightseeing, and other outdoor recreation — continues to be among the experiences most valued by visitors to the Marianas, and the tourism office is urging the development of more eco-activities to market to potential visitors.
