BIRD ISLAND SANCTUARY

MUST-SEE

THE GROTTO – A sunken pool with underwater passages that lead to the ocean, the Grotto is one of the popular tourist destinations on Bird Island. During low tide, tourists can walk right into the Grotto, but if luck isn’t on your side, be prepared to battle the rough waves that guard the entry point. If you manage to get past the waves, one giant stride into the open cavern would bring you straight down into the darkening cavern before three brilliant blue openings appear, leading to the open ocean. Stacks and layers of pink sea fans are all around, while butterflyfish, angelfish and even turtles can be spotted swimming around a mini-wall outside the Grotto.

WHEN

2001

WHERE Northern Marianas Islands

WHAT No-Take Marine Protected Area

The cockpit and gun of the Emily plane