Now a top dive destination, with its four significant islands surrounded by the same reef, the year-round tropical weather in Palau means the diving possibilities here are mind-blowing.
What is it?: Palau is a small island nation in the western Pacific, known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. It offers a paradise for divers, nature lovers, and those seeking a tranquil escape, with unspoiled beaches and protected national parks.
Affordability: Palau can be moderately expensive, particularly due to its remote location. Flights to the island can be costly, and while there are affordable local guesthouses and food options, luxury resorts and diving excursions can drive up the cost for travelers. However, it is possible to visit on a budget if you plan carefully.
Safety: Palau is considered a very safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment. The islands are known for their friendly local population, and visitors can generally explore with confidence. However, it’s advisable to take normal precautions in more remote areas and on the water.
Popularity: Palau is a niche destination, popular among divers, nature enthusiasts, and eco-tourists. Its pristine environment and rich marine biodiversity, particularly the Rock Islands and Blue Corner, attract travelers looking for a secluded, off-the-beaten-path experience. While not heavily visited, it’s gaining recognition for its conservation efforts and natural beauty.
Tourist Infrastructure: The island has a relatively developed infrastructure for tourism, particularly in Koror, the capital. There are a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly options, and tour operators offering diving, kayaking, and eco-tours. Public transportation is limited, and travel between islands requires ferries or private boats.
Weather: Tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The best time to visit is from November to April, during the dry season, when the weather is most pleasant. The rainy season lasts from May to October, with a higher risk of storms and humidity, though it’s still possible to visit during this period.
Best Time to Go: November–April for the best weather, ideal for diving, snorkeling, and exploring Palau’s beaches and natural reserves. The rainy season (May–October) offers fewer crowds but comes with a higher chance of rain and humidity.
Known For: Koror, Rock Islands, Blue Corner, coral reefs, diving, pristine beaches, national parks like Palau National Marine Sanctuary, and its commitment to environmental conservation.
Top Destinations: Koror • Rock Islands • Blue Corner • Palau National Marine Sanctuary • Ngardmau Waterfall • Jellyfish Lake • Sister Islands
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Nature Buffs: Palau offers some of the best natural beauty in the Pacific, with incredible marine biodiversity, pristine beaches like Sister Islands, the unique Jellyfish Lake, and protected areas such as the Palau National Marine Sanctuary, making it a dream destination for eco-tourism.
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History Buffs: While Palau’s primary appeal is its natural beauty, it also offers a glimpse into its history, with sites like the Badrul Chow Stone Monoliths, historical landmarks in Koror, and World War II relics from the Japanese occupation, offering cultural depth for visitors.
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Beach Bunnies: Palau is perfect for beach lovers, with its secluded, pristine beaches like Sister Islands and Ngaremeduu Bay, crystal-clear waters for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, offering a relaxing and tranquil beach experience away from the crowds.
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Digital Nomads: While Palau offers a beautiful, peaceful setting for remote work, the internet can be slow, and infrastructure for digital nomads is basic. Koror has some reliable internet and services, but the island’s remote nature may make it challenging for long-term stays.
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Families: Palau is a family-friendly destination, with activities like snorkeling in Jellyfish Lake, exploring Rock Islands, and nature walks in Ngardmau Waterfall, offering educational and fun experiences for children and adults alike in a beautiful, safe environment.
Palau is a Pacific island nation known for pristine reefs, hidden lagoons, and deep respect for nature. The Rock Islands, with their mushroom-like shapes and turquoise waters, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for kayaking and snorkeling. Divers from around the world come for sites like Blue Corner and Jellyfish Lake. Koror, the main town, is laid-back but well equipped for travelers, offering local food and friendly guesthouses. Palauan culture blends Micronesian traditions with modern pride in environmental stewardship. With its marine sanctuaries, tropical forests, and warm hospitality, Palau is a small country with a big natural heart.
Most travelers come to dive or snorkel in pristine reefs, swim with harmless jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake, or paddle between limestone islets in aqua-blue lagoons. The capital, Ngerulmud, is mostly administrative, but visitors usually stay in Koror, the country’s main hub, where hotels, dive shops, restaurants, and tour operators are concentrated. It’s compact, clean, and surrounded by natural beauty at every turn.
With over 16 acclaimed dive sites including Blue Corner, dozens of caves and caverns, and a WWII wreck as well as the incredibly scenic 70-plus uninhabited Rock Islands, those in wet suits better hope that fish is all they encounter here, with a significant number of American aircraft and their crews having been shot down in Palau during WWII. Lying just 800kms east of the Philippines, the Pacific island nation can be accessed by air by those who have the spare dosh to enjoy a comfortable stay at Koror resort.
Palau, officially known as the Republic of Palau, is an island country located in the western Pacific Ocean. Comprising over 300 islands, Palau is renowned for its stunning marine environments, vibrant coral reefs, and rich biodiversity. The country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration. The capital city, Ngerulmud, is situated on the island of Babeldaob, while the largest city, Koror, serves as the main commercial center.
Palau is part of the larger island group of Micronesia and is located about 800 kilometers east of the Philippines. The country consists of approximately 340 islands, the most prominent being Babeldaob, Koror, Peleliu, and Angaur. Palau’s landscape features volcanic and limestone islands, dense jungles, and beautiful coastlines. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from May to November and a dry season from December to April.
Palau is moderately expensive, especially for diving-focused travelers. Accommodation ranges from guesthouses and mid-range hotels to a few upmarket resorts. Food is a mix of local Pacific island fare, Filipino influences, and Japanese dishes, with lots of grilled fish, taro, rice, and noodles. Western food is available in Koror, but limited elsewhere. Alcohol is legal, and there are a few bars, but nightlife is generally quiet, this is more a place for sunrise paddles than late-night parties.
Getting around is simple: most visitors stay on Koror and book day tours to dive, snorkel, or kayak. Taxis are available, and rental cars are useful for exploring Babeldaob, Palau’s largest island, which has waterfalls, jungle hikes, and ancient stone monoliths. There’s no public transport. English and Palauan are official languages, and locals are welcoming, proud of their traditions and environment. Palau is safe, very clean, and environmentally conscious, visitors must sign the Palau Pledge, committing to protect its fragile ecosystem.
- Capital: Ngerulmud
- Population: ~18,000 (Density: ~39 people per km², ~101 per mi²)
- Area: 459 km² (177 mi²)
- Official Language: Palauan, English
- Common Languages: Japanese, Sonsorolese, Tobian
- Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
- Time Zone: UTC+9
- Electricity: Plug Type A, B (120V, 60Hz)
- Emergency Contacts: Police 488-1422, Ambulance 488-2558, Fire 488-1422 (no universal 911 system)
- Drives On: Right
- Religions: Christianity ~96% (Roman Catholic, Protestant, Seventh-day Adventist), Modekngei ~3%, Other ~1%
- Government: Unitary Presidential Republic in Free Association with the United States
- Map Links: Google Maps | Apple Maps
- Coordinates (for GPS): 7.5149, 134.5825
Why Go to Palau?
- Diving & Snorkeling Heaven: Dive famous sites like Blue Corner, German Channel, and Ulong Channel, some of the best in the world for big fish, sharks, and coral.
- Rock Islands & Hidden Lagoons: Kayak or boat through the Rock Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site with mushroom-shaped islets and secret beaches.
- Jellyfish Lake: Swim with millions of stingless jellyfish in a surreal, isolated marine lake (when open, access depends on conservation status).
- Ancient Culture & Stone Monoliths: Visit Badrulchau, a site with ancient basalt stones, or explore traditional bai meeting houses on Babeldaob.
- Eco-Conscious Tourism: Support one of the world’s first countries to enshrine environmental protection in its immigration process.
- Cultural Festivals & Local Crafts: Time your visit for local canoe races, storytelling events, or markets selling handwoven mats and shell jewelry.
- Waterfalls & Nature Trails: Hike to Ngardmau Waterfall, explore Ngchesar’s forests, or birdwatch in Palau’s inland jungles.
Who Might Not Enjoy Palau?
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Travelers Not Interested in Water Activities: Palau is one of the world’s top diving and snorkeling destinations. If you’re not into underwater adventures, the range of activities is more limited, there are few beaches suitable for swimming and not much nightlife or shopping.
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Budget Travelers: Palau is relatively expensive compared to many Southeast Asian or Pacific island destinations. Flights, accommodations, and tours, especially diving, can quickly add up, and budget lodging options are limited.
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Luxury Resort Seekers Expecting High-End Amenities: While Palau has some nice hotels and eco-resorts, it doesn’t offer ultra-luxury experiences on the scale of places like Bora Bora or the Maldives. Service and infrastructure can be basic by luxury standards.
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Nightlife and Party Travelers: Palau is quiet after dark. Aside from a few local bars or hotel lounges in Koror, there is little in the way of clubs, late-night venues, or a party scene.
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Shoppers or Cruise Tourists Wanting Attractions: There’s minimal shopping and few conventional tourist attractions. Visitors seeking guided city tours, museums, or cultural shows may find the offerings sparse.
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Vegetarians or Vegans: The local diet is heavy on seafood and imported processed food. Vegetarian and vegan travelers may find limited options, especially outside of Koror’s few international restaurants.
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Tourists Looking for Public Transport or Car-Free Travel: There is no public transportation system. To explore beyond your hotel, you’ll need to rent a car or join a tour.
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People Sensitive to Heat and Humidity: Palau is hot and humid year-round. If you’re not comfortable with tropical climates, the weather can feel oppressive, particularly during the rainy season (May to November).
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Those Expecting Easy Island-Hopping: While Palau is made up of hundreds of islands, most are uninhabited and require boat tours to visit. Independent island-hopping isn’t practical or possible without a tour operator.
What’s Cool
World-class diving and snorkeling, vibrant coral reefs, rich marine biodiversity, pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, fascinating World War II relics, traditional villages, friendly locals, and unique cultural experiences.
What’s Not
Remote location with long travel times, occasional travel challenges, high cost of living and services, limited tourist infrastructure in some areas, and potential for tropical storms.
Palau is an island country in the western Pacific Ocean, part of Micronesia, located southeast of the Philippines, north of Indonesia, and west of the Federated States of Micronesia. It consists of more than 500 islands, most of which are uninhabited. The islands form part of the Caroline Islands chain, but Palau is politically and culturally distinct. The capital is Ngerulmud, located on the island of Babeldaob, though most of the population lives in and around Koror.
Palau is made up of volcanic and limestone islands, fringed with coral reefs, lagoons, and mangroves. The largest island, Babeldaob, is mountainous and forested, with waterfalls, rivers, and inland lakes. The smaller Rock Islands to the south are a group of uninhabited mushroom-shaped limestone islets, surrounded by turquoise water and reefs. The country also includes the Southwest Islands, a string of remote, low-lying atolls.
Palau’s climate is tropical, hot and humid year-round, with a wet season from May to November and a drier period from December to April. It’s located outside the main typhoon belt.
Tourism centers on diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and ecotourism, alongside WWII history and traditional Micronesian culture.
Most visitors arrive via Roman Tmetuchl International Airport near Koror, with direct flights from Guam, Manila, Taipei, and Seoul. Koror is the tourism hub, with the best infrastructure, dive operators, and accommodations. Getting around involves car rental, taxis, or organized tours. Domestic flights and boats connect to outer islands like the Southwest Islands, but these are limited.
Koror
The main population and tourism center, with hotels, restaurants, and access to the Rock Islands.
- Koror: The urban heart of Palau, with dive shops, museums, and lively eateries.
- Belau National Museum: Features exhibits on Palauan history, culture, and colonial rule.
- Etpison Museum: A small museum covering archaeology, WWII, and traditional practices.
- Aquarium of Palau: Showcases local marine ecosystems and conservation efforts.
- Rock Islands (accessed from Koror): A UNESCO World Heritage site offering snorkeling, kayaking, and island-hopping excursions.
Babeldaob
Palau’s largest island, mostly rural and traditional, with hiking trails, rivers, and ancestral sites.
- Ngerulmud: The official capital, home to the Capitol Complex and government offices.
- Ngardmau Waterfall: A scenic inland hike to the country’s largest waterfall.
- Stone Monoliths of Ngarchelong: Ancient basalt pillars tied to Palauan myths.
- Lake Ngardok Nature Reserve: The largest freshwater lake in Micronesia, with birdwatching and nature trails.
- Aimeliik Bai: A traditional men’s meeting house overlooking the coast.
Rock Islands Southern Lagoon
A protected zone of limestone islets, marine lakes, and reef systems, best explored by boat.
- Jellyfish Lake: A marine lake where visitors once swam with non-stinging jellyfish (currently closed but monitored for recovery).
- Milky Way Lagoon: A calm bay with white limestone mud, used for skin treatments.
- Blue Corner: One of the world’s best dive sites, with reef sharks, barracuda, and strong currents.
- German Channel: Famous for manta ray cleaning stations and deep dives.
- Ulong Channel: Known for drift dives, coral gardens, and prehistoric rock carvings on nearby Ulong Island.
Peleliu
A quiet island known for WWII history, remote beaches, and diving.
- Peleliu Island: Site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific War; now home to rusting tanks, airstrips, and memorials.
- Peleliu State Museum: Covers the island’s wartime and cultural history.
- Bloody Nose Ridge: A key battlefield area with caves and Japanese bunkers.
- Orange Beach: A calm, scenic spot that was once a landing zone for U.S. Marines.
- Peleliu Wall: A steep underwater drop-off, great for advanced divers.
Southwest Islands
Extremely remote atolls with strong cultural identity, limited development, and rare visitors.
- Sonsorol: One of the inhabited southwestern islands, with traditional canoe-making and reef fishing.
- Hatohobei (Tobi Island): Home to a small community preserving local language and customs.
- Helen Reef: An atoll and marine sanctuary monitored by rangers, known for diverse reef systems.
- Pulo Anna: An uninhabited atoll with white-sand beaches and nesting seabirds.
- Merir: Another rarely visited islet, surrounded by healthy reefs and untouched lagoons.
Highlights
- Blue Corner: A world-famous dive site known for its strong currents, abundant marine life, and dramatic underwater scenery.
- Jellyfish Lake: A unique marine lake where visitors can swim with harmless jellyfish, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Rock Islands Southern Lagoon: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning limestone islands, clear blue waters, and rich biodiversity.
- Ngardmau Waterfall: The tallest waterfall in Palau, located on the island of Babeldaob, offering scenic views and hiking opportunities.
- Belau National Museum: The oldest museum in Micronesia, showcasing Palauan history, culture, and art.
Regions
- Koror: Koror is the largest city and commercial hub of Palau, located on the island of Koror. It serves as the gateway to the country’s main attractions, including the Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake. Koror offers a range of accommodations, dining options, and cultural sites such as the Belau National Museum and Etpison Museum.
- Babeldaob: Babeldaob is the largest island in Palau and the location of the capital, Ngerulmud. The island features diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls. Key attractions include Ngardmau Waterfall, the ancient stone monoliths of Badrulchau, and the Bai, traditional Palauan meeting houses.
- Peleliu: Peleliu is an island known for its significant World War II history, including the Battle of Peleliu. Visitors can explore war relics, memorials, and museums that commemorate the battle. Peleliu also offers beautiful beaches and excellent diving spots.
- Angaur: Angaur is a small island south of Peleliu, known for its relaxed atmosphere and historical sites from World War II. The island is ideal for birdwatching, as it is home to several species of migratory birds.
Top Cities
- Koror: The largest city and main commercial center, offering a range of accommodations, dining options, and cultural sites.
- Ngerulmud: The capital of Palau, located on Babeldaob Island, known for its government buildings and surrounding natural beauty.
Islands & Beaches
- Rock Islands: Famous for their unique limestone formations, clear blue waters, and rich marine biodiversity.
- Ngerekebesang Island: Known for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts.
- Peleliu Island: Offers historical World War II sites and beautiful beaches.
- Angaur Island: Known for its relaxed atmosphere, birdwatching, and historical sites.
National Parks
- Rock Islands Southern Lagoon: A UNESCO World Heritage site
The dry Season (December to April) is the best time to visit Palau, with sunny weather and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities, beach visits, and water sports.
- Dry Season (December to April): Best time to visit with sunny weather and minimal rainfall, perfect for diving, snorkeling, and exploring.
- Wet Season (May to November): Higher chance of rain and potential travel disruptions, but the landscape is lush and green. This period can still be good for diving, as marine life remains abundant.
Direct flights from Taiwan, South Korea, the Philippines, and Guam to Roman Tmetuchl International Airport.
- Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), Koror: The main international airport in Palau, with flights from Taiwan, South Korea, the Philippines, and Guam.