managaha island

From Garapan, it is a 15 minute boatride to Managaha Island (pronounced Ma-nya-ga-ha). This island is part of Saipan but a local tour company, Tasi Tours has the exclusive concession rights to operate marine sports and other beach activities here.

While we were there we had covered beach chairs, which helped to block the sun.

Most tourists in Saipan are from Japan, Korea, China and some from Russia because they don't need visas to visit and it is rather close to their countries. A lot of the signs are written in all the languages. The sand on most of the beaches were powdery and fine.

Many go to Managaha to snorkel.

Or just relax. When I saw these guys, I instantly thought of beached seals or turtles....

There are remnants of the war on the island too.

They also try to protect the wildlife here too, there were many signs indicating areas not to be entered due to baby birds hatching.

I couldn't get over these Japanese tourists wearing sweaters over their pareo and no-sleeve.

Lunch was a barbeque plate. Reminded me of local food in Hawaii and barbeques at the beach.

There was coco papaya (which I realized was green papaya soaked in a spicy sauce similar to the one they use to make takuan)--koko is the local Japanese word for tsukemono. There was also "Saipan rice" a red rice colored with achiote or lipstick plant. I think you can find achiote in Filipino & Spanish cuisine.

I also had Aloha Maid iced tea, something that I hadn't had in years!

It was a great day--lots of sun and relaxation.

Tasi Tours
website in Japanese only

In my previous post, I forgot to mention that we received a fruit platter and wine from the Hyatt. Thank you!!