Northern Mariana Islands: When to Go

The best time to visit the Northern Marianas is during the dry months of December to March. That's also the high season, and prices will be higher. It may be wise to avoid going during traditional Japanese holiday seasons: from Christmas through the first week of January; Golden Week, the last week of April and the first week of May; and Obon (August). If you do go at one of these times, be sure to book well in advance and be prepared to stay in more obscure accommodations. It's also difficult to get flights during the Christmas season, as many far-flung islanders return home during the holidays.

Weather

According to The Guinness Book of Records, Saipan has the world's most equable temperature, averaging 27°C (81°F) year-round. Humidity is always high but the even temperature and fresh sea breezes means conditions are never too stuffy. The rainy season is from July to October, when rainfall averages about 300mm (12in) a month and typhoons wreak havoc; from December to May the monthly rainfall average is only around 100mm (4in).