About CNMI
The Marianas
Home to two indigenous people, the Chamorros and Carolinians, The Marianas holds to its Pacific Island roots while welcoming people of cultures from around the world that visit, work, and reside on these islands. The rich diversity of this heritage allows visitors to find many delightful opportunities to immerse themselves in this rich cultural experience.
The Marianas attracts visitors to its embrace. A tropical paradise offering the relaxing shores of magnificent beaches and crystal clear blue waters, as well as the lively bustle of night life, shopping, a wide range of ethnic restaurants, and a multitude of outdoor activities. Explore 30 of the most iconic places and features of the islands with our Marianas 30 Treasures brochure.
Saipan, as the capital, is the largest and most populated island in The Marianas.
Saipan is located about 120 miles (190 km) north of Guam and 5 nautical miles (9.3 km) northeast of Tinian, from which it’s separated by the Saipan Channel. Saipan is about 12 miles long and 5.5 miles wide. It’s the principal island and major commercial center of the archipelago.
This tropical paradise offers beautiful white sand beaches with crystal clear water and pure, fresh air. Warmth is in the air and in the people you will meet. It is a throwback to a relaxed lifestyle coupled with modern hotels, incredible sights, adventurous activities, and shopping. Garapan is the epicenter of activities with many restaurants, bars, and shopping options.
Home of the annual “Pika Festival”, Tinian, a neighboring island just three miles south of Saipan, is easily accessible through a short hop on a plane.
Tinian is about 5 nautical miles southwest of Saipan, separated by the Saipan Channel. It has a land area of 39 square miles, with its highest elevation at Mount Lasso (561 ft).
The crystal water, colorful marine life, and pristine coral reef surrounding the island offer excellent snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. Stretches of secluded beaches offer the perfect setting for a romantic getaway or perhaps a destination wedding with a breathtaking backdrop of Tinian’s pristine surroundings.
Rota will enchant all visitors with its wealth of natural and cultural beauty.
Rota (Luta) is the southernmost island of the The Marianas. It lies approximately 40 nautical miles north-northeast of Guam. Sinapalo is the largest and most populated village followed by Songsong village.
Nicknamed “The World’s Friendliest Island,” Rota is known for its friendly nature, sweet potatoes, and coconut crabs. If not the local delicacies, Rota’s people will soon charm you with their smiles and warm hospitality. A sense of family will soon overtake you. Dip your toes in the Swimming Hole or book a round of golf. Wedding Cake Mountain and Tweksberry Beach are sights to behold, all accompanied by ceaseless songs of local birds.
CNMI Profile
Location
Political Status & Resident Citizenship
Government
People and Cultural Mix
With a history of occupation by Spain, Germany, Japan and the United States, along with its close proximity to Asia, it’s no wonder that the CNMI has developed a truly international character. The CNMI’s total populatioon in 2018 was 56,882. The indigenous Chamorros and Carolinians speak their native languages as well as English. The remainder of the population is comprised of Americans, Filipinos, Palauans, Yapese, Marshallese, Pohpeian, Kosraean, Native Hawaiians, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Thai, Russian, Bangladeshi, Nepalese, other Asians and Pacific Islanders.
Relative Proximity
Tokyo
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1,272 miles
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Government Leaders
Governor
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Arnold I. Palacios
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General
Number of Islands
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14
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Economy
Currency
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U.S. Dollar
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Labor Force
Total labor force (2010)
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27,968
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Sources:
Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce; CNMI Department of Commerce, 2010 CNMI Census