The lookout is on top of a cliff and looks down onto Bird Island and Bird
Island Beach. The lookout has a beautiful view, but there is a lot more
to see if you hike down to the beach.
The head of the trail down to Bird Island Beach is at the end of a grassy
road about half way between the Grotto and the Lookout. It is easy to
miss, because it is so small and because the occasional typhoon wipes
out the road. It is the only road between the Grotto and the Lookout,
however, so just keep looking if you are having trouble finding it.
The beginning of the trail is marked with a small green sign that reads
"Conservation Area." The hike down takes about 15 minutes. It is not
nearly as steep as the trail down to Forbidden Island, but it is a little
difficult at times. The trail can be very rocky and very muddy, especially
if it has been raining.
Right before you step out onto the beach you have to walk through
what looks like a dry stream bed. This is a great place to find hermit
crabs and juvenile coconut crabs.
When you reach the beach make sure that you mind all of the Marine
Protected Area rules and regulations.
You can snorkel inside the reef. You will see lots of reef fish and the
occasional shark. I wouldn't recommend swimming outside the reef
unless you have a death wish.
It is very easy to walk onto the island. The water between the beach
and the island gets no deeper than 4 feet, even during high tide. You
might get a little wet, but it is worth it because of all the interesting
things on the island.
For more info on Bird Island CLICK HERE
<<back
The Coral Reef Public Awareness in Saipan Project is supported by a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |
