Palau: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Palau was the first country in the world to create a shark sanctuary, protecting over 130 species of sharks and rays across its entire exclusive economic zone? This pioneering conservation effort is just one example of how this pristine island nation leads the way in environmental protection while offering some of the most spectacular natural experiences on the planet. From swimming with millions of stingless jellyfish to diving among WWII wrecks, Palau delivers unforgettable adventures that combine breathtaking beauty with meaningful experiences.

Where is Palau Located?

The Republic of Palau is a stunning island nation in the western Pacific Ocean, part of the Micronesia region. Located east of the Philippines, north of Indonesia, and southwest of Guam, Palau comprises approximately 340 islands, though only eight are permanently inhabited. The main commercial center is Koror, while the capital is Ngerulmud on Babeldaob, the largest island.

Despite its small size (just 177 square miles of land), Palau packs an incredible diversity of landscapes and marine environments. The country sits at the meeting point of three ocean currents, creating one of the most diverse marine ecosystems on the planet with over 1,300 species of fish and 700 species of coral.

How to Get to Palau

Reaching this island paradise requires some planning, but the journey is well worth the effort. The main gateway is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) in Airai. Direct flights to Palau are available from several Asian hubs:

• Seoul, South Korea (Korean Air, Asiana Airlines)
• Taipei, Taiwan (China Airlines)
• Manila, Philippines (United Airlines)
• Guam (United Airlines)

Most travelers will need to connect through one of these cities. Flight time from the United States west coast is approximately 16-20 hours including connections.

Best Time to Visit Palau

Located just 7 degrees north of the equator, Palau enjoys a tropical climate year-round with temperatures consistently between 77-86°F (25-30°C). However, there are distinct wet and dry seasons to consider when planning your trip:

The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, particularly January through April, when you’ll experience the best weather conditions for diving and outdoor activities. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind occasional rain showers, the shoulder seasons (May/June or October/November) offer a good balance of decent weather and lower prices.

Getting Around Palau

Navigating Palau requires some planning, as public transportation is limited. Here are your best options:

For dive enthusiasts, many dive shops offer free pickup and drop-off from hotels in Koror, making it easy to access dive sites without additional transportation costs.

12 Best Things to Do in Palau

Palau offers a perfect blend of underwater adventures, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Here are the top activities that should be on every visitor’s itinerary:

1. Dive the Blue Corner

Consistently ranked among the top five dive sites in the world, Blue Corner offers an adrenaline-pumping experience where divers use reef hooks to anchor themselves in strong currents while watching sharks, Napoleon wrasse, and massive schools of fish parade by in the blue. The dramatic drop-off and incredible biodiversity make this a bucket-list dive for enthusiasts worldwide.

2. Snorkel in Jellyfish Lake

One of Palau’s most unique experiences is swimming among millions of stingless golden jellyfish in a marine lake on Eil Malk island. These jellyfish have evolved without predators, losing their sting over time. As you snorkel through the clear waters, you’ll be surrounded by these pulsating creatures in a surreal, otherworldly experience found nowhere else on Earth.

Note: You’ll need to purchase a Rock Islands/Jellyfish Lake permit ($100) to visit this natural wonder.

3. Kayak Through the Rock Islands

Paddling silently through Palau’s UNESCO-listed Rock Islands offers intimate access to hidden lagoons, secluded beaches, and marine-rich waters. These mushroom-shaped limestone formations, covered in lush vegetation, create a maze of channels perfect for exploration. Many tour operators offer full or half-day kayaking excursions that include snorkeling stops at vibrant coral gardens.

4. Visit the Milky Way Lagoon

This unique lagoon within the Rock Islands contains a sea floor covered with white limestone mud believed to have skin-rejuvenating properties. Visitors can scoop up the soft white mud and apply it as a natural spa treatment. The contrast between the milky white water and the surrounding turquoise sea creates a stunning visual experience.

5. Explore Peleliu Island’s WWII Sites

History buffs shouldn’t miss Peleliu Island, site of one of the Pacific War’s bloodiest battles. Today, the island is an open-air museum where you can explore Japanese bunkers, tanks, aircraft wrecks, and the sobering “Thousand Man Cave” complex. A knowledgeable guide can help bring the island’s tragic history to life while you visit Bloody Nose Ridge and other significant battle sites.

6. Dive the German Channel

This man-made channel, created by German colonizers in the early 1900s, is now famous for its manta ray cleaning stations. Divers can witness these majestic creatures as they hover while smaller fish clean parasites from their bodies. The channel also attracts reef sharks, turtles, and occasionally, whale sharks, making it one of Palau’s premier dive sites.

7. Trek to Ngardmau Waterfall

Palau’s tallest waterfall offers a refreshing break from marine activities. Located on Babeldaob island, reaching the 30-meter cascade requires a moderate 30-minute hike through lush jungle. Along the trail, you’ll encounter remnants of Japanese mining operations, including an old locomotive. The cool, clear pool at the base provides a perfect swimming spot after your trek.

8. Explore Chandelier Cave

This underwater cave system near Koror features four air-filled chambers adorned with stalactites resembling chandeliers. Accessible to divers of intermediate skill level, the cave offers a unique opportunity to surface inside each chamber and marvel at the limestone formations. The entrance is in shallow water, making this a relatively easy but unforgettable cave diving experience.

9. Visit the Belau National Museum

Learn about Palau’s rich cultural heritage at the oldest museum in Micronesia. Exhibits showcase traditional arts, navigation techniques, and the impact of colonization. The museum grounds also include a traditional bai (men’s meeting house) and botanical gardens featuring native plants. Entry costs $10 for adults and provides valuable context for understanding Palau’s unique culture.

10. Relax on Long Beach

While Palau is more famous for underwater activities than beaches, Long Beach on Malakal Island offers a picture-perfect stretch of white sand for relaxation. This tranquil spot provides excellent swimming conditions and stunning sunset views, making it ideal for unwinding after active days of diving or hiking.

11. Night Diving at Ulong Channel

Experience Palau’s marine life from a different perspective on a night dive. As darkness falls, different creatures emerge, including bioluminescent organisms, hunting lionfish, and sleeping parrotfish in their mucus cocoons. Ulong Channel transforms completely at night, offering an otherworldly experience even for those who’ve dived the site during daylight hours.

12. Visit the Etpison Museum

This private museum houses an impressive collection of Micronesian artifacts, including traditional money, storyboards, and navigation charts. The exhibits provide insight into Palau’s connection with neighboring islands and the evolution of its unique cultural practices. Located in Koror, the museum charges a $10 entrance fee and is open Monday through Saturday.

Important Permits for Palau Activities

Palau takes environmental protection seriously, and several activities require permits. Understanding these requirements will help you plan your budget and itinerary:

Note: The Jellyfish Lake permit includes the Rock Islands permit, so if you plan to visit both, purchase only the Jellyfish Lake permit. Most tour operators can arrange permits for you, or you can purchase them directly from the Koror State office.

Where to Stay in Palau

Most accommodations in Palau are concentrated in and around Koror, the main commercial center. Options range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses:

For divers, staying in Malakal (connected to Koror by bridge) puts you closer to dive shops, though most offer pickup services regardless of where you stay. If you prefer a quieter setting, consider accommodations on Babeldaob island, though you’ll need transportation to reach restaurants and activities.

Palau Cuisine and Dining

Palauan cuisine reflects the island’s rich marine resources and cultural influences from Asia and the Pacific. Here are some must-try dishes and dining recommendations:

Traditional Dishes

• Tinola – Fish soup with coconut milk, ginger, and vegetables
• Fruit Bat Soup – A local delicacy for the adventurous eater
• Ukaeb – Crab meat mixed with coconut milk and served in crab shells
• Tama – Raw fish marinated in lemon and coconut
• Belau Crab – Local mud crabs prepared with garlic and butter

Recommended Restaurants

• Kramer’s Café – Popular spot for breakfast and lunch with excellent coffee
• Drop Off Bar & Grill – Great pizza and sunset views at Palau Royal Resort
• Elilai Restaurant – Upscale dining with fusion cuisine and ocean views
• Bottom Time Bar – Popular with divers, serving good burgers and local beer
• Taj – Decent Indian food when you need a break from seafood

For budget travelers, convenience stores offer inexpensive bento boxes ($3-5) that make for quick, affordable meals. The Night Market, held every other Friday in downtown Koror, is also a great place to sample local foods and watch cultural performances.

Practical Tips for Visiting Palau

Packing Essentials

• Reef-safe sunscreen (essential for protecting Palau’s marine environment)
• Insect repellent (especially for jungle treks)
• Light, breathable clothing (it’s hot and humid year-round)
• Rash guard/water shirt for snorkeling (prevents sunburn)
• Underwater camera or waterproof case for your phone
• Reusable water bottle (tap water is generally safe in Koror)
• Light rain jacket during wet season

Palau’s Conservation Efforts

Palau is a global leader in marine conservation, implementing innovative measures to protect its natural resources:

• Palau National Marine Sanctuary – Established in 2020, this protected area covers 80% of Palau’s exclusive economic zone (500,000 square kilometers), making it one of the world’s largest marine protected areas.
• Palau Pledge – All visitors must sign an eco-pledge stamped in their passport, promising to act in an environmentally responsible way during their stay.
• Shark Sanctuary – The first in the world, protecting over 130 species of sharks and rays.
• Sunscreen Ban – Palau was the first country to ban sunscreens containing chemicals harmful to coral reefs.

As a visitor, you can support these efforts by following responsible tourism practices: use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching marine life, properly dispose of waste, and respect local conservation regulations.

Why Palau Should Be Your Next Destination

Palau offers a rare combination of pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and world-class adventure opportunities. From the moment you sign the Palau Pledge in your passport, you become part of this nation’s commitment to preserving paradise for future generations.

Whether you’re diving among sharks at Blue Corner, floating among stingless jellyfish, or exploring WWII relics in the jungle, Palau delivers experiences that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. The country’s dedication to conservation ensures these treasures will remain intact for years to come, but climate change and global pressures make now the perfect time to witness this unspoiled paradise.

With friendly locals, comfortable accommodations, and activities for every interest, Palau rewards travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the ordinary. Start planning your journey to this Pacific gem today—your perfect Palau adventure awaits!