Oceania > 🇲🇵Northern Mariana Islands
Should You Hire a Car in Northern Mariana Islands? This can be broken down into two similar questions - do you need a car in Northern Mariana Islands (in other words, will your holiday be ruined without one), and is it worth hiring a car in Northern Mariana Islands - i.e. is a car better value than using public transport? We'll weigh up both questions and give you a response generated by Chat GPT, together with our own curated opinion before finally giving a yes or no verdict at the end.
The Northern Mariana Islands — a U.S. commonwealth in the western Pacific — are made up of 14 tropical islands known for volcanic peaks, WWII relics, and turquoise lagoons. Saipan is the main destination for visitors, while Tinian and Rota attract divers and history enthusiasts. The big question for travellers is: should you rent a car in the Northern Mariana Islands?
🚗 Why Renting a Car Still Makes Sense
Renting a car remains the most convenient way to explore Saipan and the surrounding islands. Attractions are scattered, the terrain is hilly, and the tropical climate can make walking long distances uncomfortable. With a car, you can easily:
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Visit Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff, dramatic memorial sites overlooking the ocean.
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Drive to Bird Island Lookout for sunrise views.
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Explore Forbidden Island or Ladder Beach for swimming and snorkelling.
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Stop at small local eateries, farms, and scenic overlooks along the way.
Parking is free almost everywhere, and road conditions are good by island standards. Driving is on the right-hand side, and U.S. driver’s licences are accepted.
🚌 Public Transport — A Real Option in Saipan
Until recently, Saipan had virtually no public transport, but things have changed. The Commonwealth Transit Authority (CTA) now operates a fixed-route bus system, providing an affordable and practical option for both residents and visitors.
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Buses run hourly between key areas like Garapan, Susupe, San Antonio, and the Northern Marianas College.
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Services operate daily with clearly marked stops, though some routes have limited evening schedules.
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Fares are low, and you can buy single tickets or day passes.
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The system is accessible and air-conditioned, making it suitable even in hot weather.
That said, the network mainly serves the central corridor of Saipan. The more remote coastal spots — such as Banzai Cliff, Bird Island, or Forbidden Island — still require a car, taxi, or guided tour.
✈️ Getting Around and Between the Islands
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Car hire is available at Saipan International Airport (SPN) and in Garapan, through companies such as Hertz, Budget, and local operators.
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Each of the main islands — Saipan, Tinian, and Rota — has its own road system, but cars can’t be ferried between them.
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Star Marianas Air offers short, scenic flights (15–40 minutes) between islands.
If you plan to island-hop, it’s easiest to rent a car separately on each island.
🛣️ Driving Notes
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Speed limits are low (40–55 km/h), and distances are short.
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Roads are generally well maintained, though rural sections can be narrow.
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Fuel is easy to find and affordable.
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Traffic is light, even in Garapan.
🌴 Summary — Should You Rent a Car in the Northern Mariana Islands?
Why you should:
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Freedom to explore scenic and remote areas.
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Minimal traffic and easy navigation.
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Plenty of free parking.
Why you might not:
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You’re staying in Garapan or Susupe, where the new CTA bus system covers most local travel needs.
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You prefer to join organised tours or rely on resort transfers.
✅ Conclusion:
Saipan’s new hourly bus service makes getting around the island easier than ever — but for exploring the full range of natural and historical attractions, renting a car still offers far more flexibility. A perfect approach might be to use the buses for short local trips and hire a car for one or two days to explore the island’s cliffs, beaches, and hidden viewpoints.
