palau island tourism

Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

The Republic of Palau is scenically magical. For such a tiny area of land, it packs a big punch. It's hard not to be overwhelmed by its extraordinary array of natural wonders: this is an archipelago of about 200 largely pristine limestone and volcanic islands, blanketed in emerald forest, surrounded by a shimmering turquoise lagoon. Unsurprisingly, diving is the number-one activity here, with truly world-class dive sites. Divers swear by Palau's exciting seascape, fascinating wrecks and stunningly diverse marine life – it's not dubbed 'the underwater Serengeti' for nothing.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Belau National Museum & Bai

This little museum features exhibits from all eras of Palauan life, including artworks, photography, sculpture, storyboards and more. As you move between…

US Army 323rd Infantry Monument & Lookout

The large coral ridge that runs parallel to Peleliu's west coast was nicknamed 'Bloody Nose Ridge' by the Americans in WWII. This small limestone hill…

WWII Memorial Museum

Housed in a concrete building that was a dispensary during WWII, this well-organised museum is an excellent starting point to understand the historical…

Badrulchau Stone Monoliths

If you want to see the 'Easter Island of Micronesia', bookmark this archaeological site located at Babeldaob's northernmost point, where you'll find large…

Japanese Military Headquarters Building

This two-storey building was the Japanese forward command post during WWII. It was important in their efforts to control Peleliu and was very fiercely…

American Tanks

Northwest of the airstrip, two sturdy-looking US tanks rust in union on a grassy patch of land near a dirt track. Both are LVTs – Landing Vehicle Tractors…

Palau's oldest bai (men's meeting house) is over 100 years old, 21m long and 6m wide, with a steeply pitched roof reaching a height of 12m. It was…

Peleliu Peace Memorial Park

On the southwestern tip of the island, the Japanese government built this memorial in 1985 for those who perished on Palau during WWII. The monument…

Latest stories from Palau

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Dec 8, 2023 • 6 min read

These next-level travel gifts might be out of reach, but hey, you never know.

Sep 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Jan 3, 2020 • 2 min read

Mar 20, 2019 • 1 min read

Jan 16, 2019 • 1 min read

Oct 1, 2015 • 4 min read

Oct 1, 2015 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Palau

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Palau with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Palau and beyond

Explore Palau

Plan your trip to palau: best of palau tourism.

Essential Palau

Trending in the forums

Palau Is Great For

The great outdoors.

How to Get to Palau Island & Everything You Need to Know

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: July 8, 2020  - Last updated: March 7, 2022

Categories Destinations , Oceania , Palau

The Republic of Palau is a tropical paradise in the western part of Micronesia. It’s a one-of-a-kind nation built up by tiny islands – 300 to be exact – but only a few are inhabited.

The islands are home to what may be the most pristine dive sites in the world – and the main reason to visit Palau .

Before you can head off and explore this small piece of heaven in the south Pacific, there are a few things you’ll need to know – like how to get to Palau, how to travel around the islands, and more. Let’s dive straight into it. 

Where is Palau?

Most people wouldn’t be able to point out Palau on a map. That’s not that strange since Palau is such a tiny country. You will have to look very closely on Google Maps to even notice the place.

But where exactly in the world is Palau? To be precise, Palau is located on 7° 30′ North Latitude, 133° 30′ East Longitude in the far western edge of the south pacific ocean.

Palau is home to 340 islands, with 300 of them being uninhabited islands located around the stunning Rock Islands UNESCO World Heritage site – also home to Jellyfish Lake .

Other islands which belong to Palau are the remote Kayangel island which is home to only 50 people, and the extremely remote Sonsorol Islands and Tobi island (population 7).

Palau is located about 3,200 km (2,000 miles) south of Japan and about 900 km (560 miles) east of the Philippines. Palau is literally in the middle of nowhere in the western Pacific Ocean.

Note: If you are visiting this remote part of the world, it is also worth visiting the neighboring Federated state of Micronesia and Pohnpei, which is home to the mysterious ruins of Nan Madol.

Palau: How to Get There

The only way to reach Palau is through the tiny Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, which is the only Palau Airport. 

The airport serves only 5 different destinations in 5 different countries. It only sees 20 departures and arrivals from abroad a week, so your flight options are pretty limited when it comes to how to reach Palau.

Flights to Palau 

Knowing who flies to Palau is the first step in reaching this dream destination. 

• Asiana Airlines (Star Alliance) offers two flights each week from Incheon, South Korea. If you’re traveling from here, be sure to check out my guide on attractions in Seoul . 
• China Airlines (SkyTeam) offers four flights a week from Taipei, Taiwan .
• United Airlines (Star Alliance) offers a daily flight from Guam and a weekly flight from Manila and The Philippines.
• Korean Airlines (SkyTeam) offers two flights a week from Incheon, South Korea.
• Lanmei Airlines low-cost airlines from Macau, flights are currently suspended due to Coronavirus, but keep checking for when they reopen – it could be any one of these days.

Roman Tmetuchl International Airport is tiny with close to nothing when it comes to the facility. There’s an ATM and a mobile shop selling local sim cards (but it is closed during the night).

There’s also no public transportation and no taxis at the airport upon arrival. So, it’s crucial that you have pre-booked transportation from the airport to your hotel/guesthouse. If not, you will be stuck at the airport for a long, long time.

Visa Requirements for Visiting Palau Island

Palau has some of the most liberal visa rules in the world. With only 2 nations needing visas in advance – Bangladesh and Myanmar – all other citizens of every country in the world will receive a free visa on Arrival.

Tip: If you’re coming from Bangladesh, be sure to check out the unique city of Dhaka .

The Palau visa is actually a pledge that you will not harm the environment, which you will have to sign on Arrival.

Americans get a 1-year visa on Arrival. Visitors from Schengen countries will receive a 90-day visa on Arrival, while all other nations receive a 30-day visa upon Arrival. 

You may be asked to show proof of return ticket out of Palau and that you have sufficient funds (USD 200 per week).

Palau has fairly strict custom rules, and your bag will be checked upon your arrival. You are only allowed to bring 1 bottle of liquor and 1 pack of twenty cigarettes duty-free.

It’s also illegal to bring in any type of fresh fruit, vegetables, or any food products.

Drugs are strictly forbidden, and you are required to have a prescription for all types of medicines or drugs in your possession.

Departure Tax

You were previously required to pay Departure Tax, payable in U.S. dollars when you were leaving the country. The departure tax is now included in your flight ticket.

How to Visit Palau | Permit Requirements

Most activities in the country require you to have a permit, which is more like an entrance ticket to different sights. All travel agencies can get you the permits, or you can get them from the tourist information office itself.

Be aware that the permit/entrance ticket will get checked, and you will get fined heavily if you try to sneak in. Trying to sneak into Jellyfish lake will result in a $700 fine.

If you want to visit the famous Rock Islands, a permit will cost you $50. This includes Rock island and diving but NOT the jellyfish lake. The permit is valid for 10 days.

A Jellyfish lake permit costs $100 and is valid for 10 days. This permit includes Rock islands.

Other permits include:

• Diving Permit: $30
• Fishing Permit: $20. Valid 1 month
• Snorkeling Permit: $10
• Ngardmau waterfall: $10

Peleliu island has its own permits, including:

• Peleliu WW2 Relic sites : $20
• Peleliu Water Permit : $20. This is additional to the Scuba diving permit if you are planning on diving at any of the dive sites around Peleliu.

How To Travel Around Palau

Public transportation in Palau is basically non-existing around the islands outside the main city Koror and Malakal. But there is scheduled transportation between Koror and Peleliu with public ferries.

You will have to take a small plane to reach Angaur. And if you want to reach the remote atoll of Kayangel , you will have to join a tour for a day trip or charter a boat.

Travel with Public Ferries In Palau

The ferry runs from the public ferry dock at Malakal, 3 km (1.8 miles) west of Koror center. A taxi from Koror to the ferry dock will cost you $7.

NB: Be aware that there is no taxi outside the airport upon arrival, but just go to the small convenience store at the dock, and they will call you a cab.

There are two government ferries between Koror and Peleliu, a fast one named the Odesangel Dill and a slow one named the Nippon Maru II.

Both ferries are very basic. On the slow ferry, you are recommended to bring your own chair. And be sure to bring snacks/drinks for the journey, there’s nothing for sale onboard.

The public ferry schedule changes every month. The Public ferry between Koror/Peleliu and Angaur has not been running for more than 6 months. So, the only option for getting to Angaur is with a small local flight.

The public ferry takes approximately 2 to 3 and a half hours, depending on the weather, wind, and which route it has to take around the rock islands.

When it’s windy, it is a very uncomfortable and wet trip (waves splash over the whole boat). It was like this for my return journey from Peleliu. 

The price is $20 for the slow boat. The fast boat takes 1.5 hours and costs $40. Each boat charges a $1 fee for each bag you take with you.

The incredibly remote islands of Sonsorol Islands and Tobi island have no public ferries since it’s more than 20 hours each way to reach them. But they do have once-a-month cargo boats going there with supplies that you might be able to hitch a ride with.

The remote northern atoll of Kayangel is easiest visited by an organized tour since there are no public ferries there.

Ferry Schedule to Peleliu

Domestic Flights in Palau

The only airline doing scheduled inter-island flights in Palau is Pacific Mission Aviation which also does the scenic flight over the Rock Islands (which I highly recommend).

They have scheduled flights on Tuesday and Saturday from Koror to Angaur and Peleliu. There are only small single propeller flights available for 5 and 9 passengers.

Tuesday: 9 am departure at Palau International Airport. 9:45 am departure from Angaur/Peleliu. Flight time one way is 30 min.

Saturday : 9 am departure at Palau International Airport. 11:30 am departure from Angaur/Peleliu. Flight time one way is 30min.

If this doesn’t fit your schedule, your only option is to charter a flight for $400 for up to 5 people.

Another airline doing scenic flights and charter flights (but that have no scheduled flights) is Smile airline tours .

Getting around Koror and Malakal

While there’s a bus going around Koror, you will have to book a tour with one of the local tour companies if you want to see different parts of the country. Alternatively, you can rent a car from one of the few car rental companies in Koror.

Most higher-end restaurants in Koror have complimentary round-trip pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Koror and Malakal.

If you want to explore outside Koror and Malakal, you are required to rent a car. Car rentals are cheap and easily available with a large variety of options, from small Japanese cars to a pink Mustang Cabriolet.

Travel Agencies in Palau

Unfortunately, there is little in Palau that you can do without booking a tour. And if you want to go snorkeling, do a mud bath at Milkyway, Swim at JellyFish lake, or even visit some of the nicer beaches, booking a day tour is your only option.

I made three different day trips while here. Twice to the Jellyfish Lake, with snorkeling, Milkyway, and a long day trip to Kayangel.

Most agencies offer the same types of tours, but some offer longer day trips and different stops along the way, so it’s worth checking around.

• RITC PALAU is a Japanese-run tour company with an awesome English-speaking staff. Super-efficient and can highly recommend them. I made two-day trips with them.
• Fish N Fins is one of the oldest companies on the island. Mainly a PADI Dive center (5*) but they also offer day trips to Rock Islands/Jellyfish Lake and bring snorkelers along on scuba diving trips. They also offer ATV trips through the Jungle in Palau. I made a one-day trip with them and I can highly recommend them.
• SamTours highly recommended dive center. 
• Palau Impac offers a lot of different day trips, some only offered by them. It was recommended by my hotel in Koror.
• NecoMarine Dive center which offers various day trips. 
• Paddling Palau offers kayaking trips from day trips to longer trips with camping on remote islands.
• Palau 7th Wonder, Dive company also doing land tours.
• Peleliu Adventures is currently the only tour company on Peleliu.
• Sky Dive Palau for skydiving
• Scenic Flight Palau
• Pacific Mission Aviation. The company I used, I can highly recommend them.
• Smile Airline Tours.
• Palau Helicopters for helicopter tours.

Tourist Facts when Getting to Palau

Apart from the research, you will do when finding out how to go to Palau Island, there are plenty of other important things to take note of. 

Palau Environmental Laws

The Island of Palau is home to some of the world’s strictest environmental laws and was the first nation in the world to include environmental protection in its immigration laws.

Palau banned sunscreen containing any of the 10 ingredients they find to be damaging to the coral. This was effective from the 1st of January, 2020.

Shops selling banned suncream or visitors caught importing it can get fined up to $1,000.

Palau has made 80% (500,000 square kilometers) of its water into the world’s most significant no-fishing zone. This was done to protect its world-class marine life.

Unique Destinations

The incredible Jellyfish lake with millions of harmless jellyfishes and the breathtaking Rock Islands are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Palau is also home to the world’s smallest capital, and a lot more.

Bloodiest WW2 Battle

Unbeknownst to most people, Palau was home to one of the bloodiest battles in WW2. To this day, there are old war relics like tanks, bombs, and fighter jets from the war laying all around this pristine paradise. These serve as reminders about when this paradise was turned into hell for over 2 months in 1944.

Palau Population

Palau is such a tiny country with a population of just above 18,000 (February 2020 numbers), making it one of the smallest countries in the world in terms of population. With more than two-thirds of the population living in Koror, the only real town in the country. 

Palau enjoys pleasantly warm weather all year round. The average temperature is 82°F (27°C). Rainfall can occur throughout the year, and the annual average is 3,638 mm (143.2 inches). Although rain falls more frequently between July and October, there is still plenty of sunshine during these months.

The average humidity in the country is a staggering 82%.

The island nation of Palau has five official languages, Palauan, English, Japanese, Sonsorolese, and Tobian.

With Sonsorolese and Tobian only being spoken on the very remote islands of the Sonsorol island group – where the population is only 40!

All dive shops have multilingual staff from Germany, Japan, Spain, France, China, etc.

Almost all the staff that’s working in restaurants, bars, hotels, and shops are from the Philippines, where Tagalong is widely spoken. But everyone and everywhere speaks fluent English all over Palau.

(UTC+09:00) the same timezone as Japan, South Korea, and the Eastern Part of Indonesia.

Electricity in Palau

110 Volts 50/60 Hz  USA type flat 2-pin plug or 3-pin in older guesthouses/hotels while the new Palau Hotel also have European style plus and USB power plugs.

Money & Currency in Palau.

The American dollar is the official currency of Palau and is accepted everywhere, including hotels, supermarkets, dive shops, etc. All places accept international Visa and Mastercards, but American Express is not widely accepted around the country.

There are a few banks around Koror with ATMs where you can withdraw USD dollars, but they were often empty during my 10-day visit here.

If you want to exchange some other currency, your hotel or the banks are your best bet.

Is Palau safe?

This tiny country in the South Pacific is one of the safest in the world. While domestic violence is not unheard of, violence against tourists is non-existent, Peleliu has a problem with drunk driving, so you better be careful when walking around in the evening there.

Internet In Palau

Your sim card from home will not work in Palau as international roaming is not available here. So no matter where you are from, your local sim card is useless in Palau.

While all higher-end and mid-range hotels offer free wifi, the cheaper ones require you to buy 24-hour internet cards for 2 USD.

The best coffee shop to go to for coffee and to work on your computer is Coffee Berry.

Local Palau Beer

Red Rooster Brewery offers five different types of beer plus one cider. But only 3 of the beers are available in cans.

Like every country with respect for itself, Palau also has its own beer brewery, the Red Rooster Brewery. The local beer in Palau is worth a try. 

The small local brewery located in Malakal has five different beers for sale: Amber, Light, Stout, Wheat, and a Tropical Ale, plus one cider for sale.

The best place to try all of them is either at Red Roaster Cafe or at the Canoe House (The best Pizza in town).

What to Pack for Palau

First of all, be aware that there’s very little to buy in Palau. You can, however, buy all kinds of toiletries, dive gear, and clothes from companies like Quicksilver, Rip Curl and Billabong, etc. – but that’s about it.

You will have to bring everything you need to Palau. There’s nowhere to buy cameras, memory cards, and other digital accessories around the country.

You will also have to bring all the books you need since there is no bookstore here. Kramers bar next to the ferry port does have a large selection of books to swap for used books.

There’s not even a cinema in Palau. So, be sure to fill up your tablet/computer with movies before you get here to keep you entertained.

Laundry is cheap on Koror so you won’t need to bring too many clothes. And since Palau has a warm tropical climate all year round, shorts, flip flops, and a few light t-shirts and shorts are all you need for clothes. But during the wet months, rain can occur almost daily – so bring a light rain jacket along.

Almost all restaurants keep blasting their aircon, so it’s recommended to bring a light sweater.

Everything You Need to Know about How to Get to Palau Island

The next time someone asks ‘how do you get to Palau island’, you’re going to know exactly what to say. This unique holiday destination is well worth the addition to any traveler’s bucket list. 

Whether you’re diving in the crystal clear waters or enjoying a local brew, Palau has plenty of fun things on offer – just make sure you come prepared.

Palau Travel Guide

Palau is one of the smallest countries in the world, with a population of only 18,000 and a total area of only 465 square kilometers (180 square miles). Even so, it's one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and the Rock Islands are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for this reason.

Two of the most popular bucket list things to do in Palau are an island hopping tour of the Rock Islands by boat , or a scenic flight over the Rock Islands of Palau. Another popular activity is scuba diving because of the area's world class coral reefs.

Read through this complete Palau travel guide for more info on what to expect!

Quick Facts

Palauan & English

Christianity

VOA or visa free access for most countries

Tropical; hot & humid year round

Power Plugs

Where is palau.

Palau is a remote little island country located in the Micronesia region of the western Pacific Ocean. It's neighbored by Guam to the northeast, Papua to the south, and the Philippines to the west, and these are your main connections for getting there.

How To Get To Palau

The only international airport in Palau is in Koror (code: ROR), which is also known as the Roman Tmetuchl International Airport.

There are direct flights to Palau from a bunch of places in Asia and Oceania, like Brisbane, Port Moresby, Taipei, Seoul, Guam, and Manila. You can shop for flights to Palau on Skyscanner.

Palau is a very safe country and generally the only concern is some petty crime. Attitudes toward foreigners seem welcoming, and it would be very unusual to hear of a tourist being victimized in Palau. Just take normal precautions and you shouldn't have any issues.

The climate of Palau is tropical, so there's no bad time to visit. It's hot and humid year round, and there's plenty of rain in every month. The driest months in Koror and the Rock Islands are January to April, but even those months have plenty of rain, which tends to come in the evenings or at night.

Palau is a midrange travel destination. It's not cheap to visit, but it's not super expensive either, especially if you're already in Asia or Oceania. The main challenge is just getting there. Hotels in Koror are available from $60 USD per night for a private room.

Meals at restaurants are not too expensive, costing about $10, although you can save money by doing your own cooking.

Transportation

If you're staying in Koror, most things you'll need are within walking distance (like restaurants and shops). Tour companies usually provide free pickup for activities if you go on a boat or plane tour, etc. Hotels can arrange taxis and airport transfers if needed. For any other transportation needs in Palau, you can rent a car and the daily rates are pretty reasonable.

My latest blog posts about Palau

Palau Scenic Flight Over The Rock Islands: How To Do It

A scenic flight over the Rock Islands is becoming one of the most popular things for tourists to do in the little country of Palau, and it’s …

Rock Islands Palau Boat Tour: Milky Way & Long Beach

The Palau Rock Islands have earned UNESCO status for their incredible scenery, and they’re one of the main tourist sights in the country of Palau. While many …

Get In Touch

Feel free to contact me if you have travel questions, comments, or suggestions! I'll try to get back to you!

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content

Worldwide Wilbur

Budget Vacations to Unusual Destinations

The 12 Best Things to Do in Palau: Don’t Miss #3!

April 8, 2023 by Worldwide Wilbur 1 Comment

“The 12 Best Things to Do in Palau” will get in the water, diving with sharks, snorkeling with jellyfish, and kayaking to desert island beaches.  It explains everything you need to know about visiting the “Pristine Paradise of Palau” — where to stay, what to see, what to eat, and more.

Children of Palau, I take this Pledge, To preserve and protect your beautiful and unique island home. I vow to tread lightly, act kindly, and explore mindfully. I shall not take what is not given. I shall not harm what does not harm me. The only footprints I shall leave are those that will wash away.

As soon as you land in the Palau Islands, you know you have arrived somewhere a little bit different.  At customs and immigration, you don’t get just any old passport stamp.  You get the above Palau Pledge stamped in your passport, and you must read it and sign it.  The Palau people take environmental protection seriously.  As well they should, since a massive portion of the country’s income is from tourists there to experience the crystal clear underwater scenery.

Why go to Palau?

Palau is an absolutely gorgeous, tiny country of just 18,000 people.  Only Vatican City , Tuvalu, and Nauru are smaller.  Spend a year here, and you’d know everyone.  The Palau island nation consists of one decent-sized island named Babeldaob, a couple smaller islands, and another 340 tiny specks of limestone rock capped by green jungle.   These “Rock Islands” look like something out of a James Bond movie, as your speedboat traverses crystal blue ocean, between steep island cliffs and jungle.

Where is Palau? 

Palau sits in the North Pacific, 600 miles east of the Philippines, 600 miles north of West Papua Indonesia, and 800 miles southwest of Guam.  In other words, it ain’t close to anywhere.  It gets tourism from sorta nearby Taiwan, and guest workers from almost close by Philippines.  But, most tourists coming here are SCUBA divers from far away Europe or the Americas.

Palau has maintained its beauty by restricting the over-development that is so common in other developing countries.  For starters, most businesses can only operate if they have a Palauan citizen owning at least 51%.  No foreigner can buy land in Palau.  They can only lease.  So the Palauan people have stayed invested in the future of their island.  They haven’t been bought out early like in Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji.

Bye-Bye China

In fact, Palau is so committed to preventing over-development, it took on the regional 800 pound gorilla in the room, China.  By 2015, Palau tourism was completely dominated by Chinese arrivals, and the infrastructure could barely keep up.  There were many reports of Chinese visitors taking shells, destroying reefs, disregarding environmental rules.  The Palauan government sought to put limits on Chinese group tours.  China responded by banning ALL its tour companies from sending trips to Palau.  This has deeply hurt the Palau economy, of which fully 50% is tourism.  But, Palau stands its ground, and wishes to continue to offer the world a pristine paradise, rather than become another Cambodia, completely overrun with casinos and Chinese restaurants.

The 12 Best Things to do in Palau:

#1 in palau scuba diving is world class. .

The diving in Palau is AMAZING.  The Blue Corner Wall is perennially ranked among the top 5 dive sites on Earth.  Other famous dives are Ulong Channel, and Peleliu Express.  If you aren’t dive certified, you really ought to consider it before you go to Palau.  It’s what everyone you meet will be spending their day doing.  I saw manta rays, blacktip sharks, Napoleon Wrasse, a leopard shark, and so many colorful small fish.  Palau diving is NOT cheap.  Book ahead, especially if you have specific sites you want to dive on.  Be sure to get Nitrox certified.  I was strongly encouraged to get the certification on the spot, to increase my available bottom time.  You’ll need to have the Rock Islands Permit which costs $50.  Your dive shop will sell it.

• I dove with Sam’s Tours , who were a top class organization.  Two tank dives ($160), including renting gear ($35), cost $195 a day.
• Fish N Fins Palau has similar prices and excellent reviews.  Also has a liveaboard boat; the Ocean Hunter III.
• Neco Marine has two tank dives for $160, plus equipment rental.
• Palau Dive Adventures does week-long dive packages starting at $1150.

#2 Do a kayak/snorkel tour of the Rock Islands. 

I spent a day doing a kayak tour with Sam’s Tours for $130, and it was magical.  We zipped to the rock islands in a speedboat, then unloaded the kayaks into the water.  Paddling silently through steep limestone cliffs, we watched birds, bats, and jellyfish pass by.  We jumped in to snorkel in a protected lagoon rich in ocean life.  The last adventure of the day was getting dropped into a very fast-moving current where we could snorkel over the reef like we had jets on our backs.  So much fun!  You’ll need to have the Rock Islands Permit which costs $50.  This permit is good for ten days, so you only need to buy it once for ten days worth of tours.

#3 Snorkel with Stingless Jellyfish in “Jellyfish Lake”.

Here you can swim and snorkel in a saltwater pool that is fully enclosed from the ocean, and filled with stingless jellyfish.  This just re-opened to tourists after a weather event that killed off most of the jellyfish in 2018.  So I missed out on this one, but it is a top draw of any trip to the Palau Islands for most people.  You’ll need to have the Rock Islands / Jellyfish Lake permit, which costs $100.  If you know you are going to Jellyfish Lake, just buy this $100 permit, not the basic $50 Rock Islands Permit.

#4 Get Wet at Ngardmau Falls. 

These tall and wide waterfalls can be reached by a 30min drive, and then a steep 30 minute hike down a trail.  You can splash around at the base, and even walk behind the falls. The entry fee is now up to $20, so you need to be a really big waterfall fan.

#5 Learn about Palauan Culture at the Etpison Museum

Learn about the Palau Islands history and culture.  Open 9-5 Monday – Saturday.  $10 entry for adults , free for children under 12.

#6 Take a boat trip to Peleliu Island for some WWII history. 

Tanks and bunkers abound where one of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific was fought.  You can get there in just over an hour by speedboat from Koror.  There is a $30 permit fee to go on the island.

#7 Swim in the Milky Way lagoon. 

Underneath the turquoise water lies a white mud that is said to provide excellent skin care.  You can scoop it up from the bottom and smear it all over yourself.  You need the Rock Island Permit.

#8 Explore the Belau National Museum . 

It has some Yap giant stone money.  Adults $10, Children $5.  Open Monday to Saturday 9-5.  Sunday 1-5.

#9 Visit the Airai Bai

It’s a big traditional men’s meeting house, and nearby is a Japanese communications building.  Entry is $5.

#10 For Flipper fans, try Dolphins Pacific

See a trained dolphin encounter where you can swim with them for $30.

#11 See the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths

37 giant stone columns with carvings sit in a field.  They date back 2000 years, and no one knows their significance. $5 entry.

#12 Get a massage

There are a couple of locations on the main street downtown for $25.

12 Best Things to do in Palau: Know Before You Go:

Backpacker daily budget:.

$110 a day.  Palau is NOT a budget destination.  With the only hostel charging $40 for a dorm bed(!!), and cheap street food hard to find, money burns fast in Palau.  Palau seems to be actively discouraging backpackers with numerous government fees for everything imaginable, nearly no hostels, no campsites, and no bicycle rental.

Palau Travel Tips: The government fees are especially onerous. 

For example, if one wants to come to the Palau just to swim in Jellyfish Lake, they must pay: 

• The $100 “Palau Pristine Paradise Environment Fee” which will be included in your airline ticket fare.
• The $50 Palau National Marine Sanctuary Permit.
• The $50 Jellyfish Lake permit.
• A $20 departure tax upon leaving the airport.
• A $30 “green fee” upon leaving the airport.

That’s $250 in government fees, and we haven’t even discussed the cost of the boat tour to Jellyfish Lake, or your accommodations and food!

Cheap Beer index :

$4 for a Red Rooster draft pint in a bar or restaurant.  Red Rooster is the national beer of Palau and comes in four different versions; Amber, Light, Wheat and Stout.  Each is excellent.  This was a real treat after a week stuck with Bud Lite or Steinlager in Micronesia .

Best Time to visit Palau:

At 7 degrees above the equator, the temperature practically  never changes on Palau.  Highs are 86-88, lows 78-79, every day, year round.  There is a rainy season, peaking in June and July at 13-14 inches a month.  March and April are the driest months, with 6 inches of rain monthly.  January through April would be the best times to come, but really your Palau vacation can be enjoyable any time of year.

What languages are spoken?  

Palauan and English are both official languages.  There are many Filipino and Chinese workers on Palau, so you’ll hear Mandarin and Tagalog as well.

Do you need a Palau visa?  

Visas are not required for USA, UK, CAN and AUS.  US citizens are issued a free one year visa on arrival.  UK, AUS and CAN citizens are issued a free 30 day tourist visa upon arrival.  This may be extended twice for a fee of US$50 for each extension for a maximum stay of 90 days. 

Palau charges a $100 “Palau Pristine Paradise Environment Fee” to all foreigners who enter the country.  This should be included in your airline ticket fare.

How to get to Palau:

Palau is much easier to get to from Asia than from the USA.  The only international Palau airport is Koror (ROR) .

Flights to Palau arrive from:

• Seoul on Asiana and Korean Air
• Taipei on China Airlines
• Macau on Lanmei Airlines
• Sihanoukville -Cambodia on Lanmei Airlines
• Guam on United
• Manila on United

The Chinese government has  effectively banned all flights here from mainland China.

No cruise ships stop here.

Upon arrival in the airport: taxis are available; $20-30 for the 20 minute ride into town.  Best to arrange pickup from your lodging.

If you are coming from the USA or Canada, you should book your flight using United Mileage Plus Miles.  While the cheapest round trip fare from Honolulu to Palau is an eye watering $1480, you can book it for just 55,000 United miles, which have a calculated value of only $825.   I booked a multi-city flight from Maui via Honolulu with three stops in Kwajalein , Pohnpei , and Palau and then back to Maui using just 67,500 United Mileage Plus miles.  If you are booking an island hopping trip, you can choose to stop in any or all of the four Micronesian islands, the two Marshallese islands, and Guam and Palau.  To learn the most efficient way to accumulate United Miles, and how to get to Palau, please check out my page Nine Steps to Free Flights Worldwide.

You are required to pay a $20 departure tax plus a $30 green fee ($50 total) per person when you leave NOTE – This may be included in your airline fare as well now.

Getting around Palau:  

• The only way to get to Koror town from the airport is a $30 taxi.
• There is no public transport.
• Koror has relatively cheap taxis, a 1-2 mile ride is only $2 to $4, but they are very few, and hard to find.  They don’t have a light on the roof to identify them at night, and they don’t drive around looking for a fare, but rather park in spots you may not know about.   You can call one by phone, but of course only if you have a local SIM.  I ended up walking a mile back to my apartment after dinner a couple of times when I couldn’t find a taxi.
• Car rental would be the cheapest way to see Babeldaob island.   IA Car Rental has the best rates, but somehow hasn’t figured out the internet yet.  You may have to call them to arrange a car.

Palau currency : 

U.S. Dollars are the official Palau currency, and are available at many ATMs.   For more info on your cash-versus-credit card options when travelling, check out my post on How to Access your Money in Foreign Countries .

Stay Connected: 

Palau has only one mobile operator:

• PNCC  with its mobile brand  PalauCel  and internet provider  PalauNet

SIM cards are sold only at PNCC offices in Koror (across the post office) Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm.  A SIM costs $25 and includes $10 worth of airtime.   Refill cards called GSM mobile airtime cards are available there and at more than 100 local stores.  These data packages are available :

Many foreign phones set up for global roaming won’t work in Palau, because PNCC doesn’t have roaming agreements with many foreign operators.  The mobile network on the islands is supplemented by public WiFi hotspots operated by the two internet providers  PNCC/PalauNet  and  Palau Telecoms.  They both sell prepaid airtime for their WiFi hotspot access.

  For more info on your telecom options, check out my post on How to Get Cheap Mobile Phone Service Worldwide .

Palau Accommodations:  

Palau does not have any budget accommodations as you would find in nearby Philippines or Taiwan.  Expect to be underwhelmed by the value of Palau hotels wherever you are staying.  (Warning: Read the fine print on booking sites.  Many rates don’t include the 12% tax AND the $12 city tax per person per night)

• Camping is possible.  There is no organized campsite, but you could convince your dive boat to leave you on one of the rock island beaches for the night, and pick you up the next day.  It’s legal.
• Palau 8090 Dream House has dorm beds for $40, and is the cheapest option on the whole island.  It is within walking distance of downtown.
• I stayed at Skyway Apartments in Malakal for $71 a night on AirBnB.  It was a good value, and great location for diving.
• DW Motel has rooms for $82 a night.  It is located right in downtown.
• Ocean Star Hotel has rooms for $126.  It is right on the ocean, with beautiful views and free breakfast.

Palau Food:  

Dining out is one thing that won’t break your budget.

• try the Bento Boxes in convenience stores.  These are a cheap $3-5 meal.
• Taj has decent Indian food at kinda high prices.
• Drop Off Bar & Grill  at the Palau Royal Resort has great pizza

Palau Nightlife: 

Koror has some decent bars for such a small town.  There are a couple of “dive bars” where people start out the night.  And by dive bars, I mean bars located directly in the SCUBA dive centers.  Folks finish their last dive of the day and saddle up to replace the nitrogen in their blood with alcohol.  After that, they may move on to the bar located at their resort.  The rowdiest are the final stops, the downtown bars where locals and tourists come together.  One important note:  Palau does not seem to have banned smoking in bars and restaurants yet, unlike the rest of the planet.  In several locations I had to just walk out due to disgusting amounts of smoke.

• Bottom Time   Bar & Grill is the bar in the Sam’s Tours Dive Center.  They have Red Rooster on tap, wine, mixed drinks, and serve food.  It has a great sunset view.  I enjoyed this spot after each dive.  Located on Malakal island
• Drop Off Bar & Grill  is located at the swanky Palau Royal Resort and is one of the classier bars on island.  I had a good pizza and ran into some Palauan government bigwigs here.  Smoking allowed.  Located on Malakal island.
• Night Market – Every other Friday there is a big night market in the center of town with food, dance performances, trinkets for sale.  Its well worth visiting.  Watch out, the traditional dancers might pull you up on stage to dance!
• Canoe House is a restaurant and bar that might be THE nightlife spot of Koror.  They have live music on weekends.  The night I went, the US Navy was ashore and had turned it into a frat party.  Located in the center of downtown.

My experience:  

After several days in the Marshall Islands and Micronesia , arriving in Palau was like jumping forward fifty years.  Perfectly paved roads, clean streets, neon lights for restaurants and bars, and even a shopping mall. The infrastructure looks asian, but the views are 100% stunning pacific islander.  The Rock Islands of Palau are steep limestone towers covered in thick foliage. They stretch for a hundred miles to the south of the main island of Babeldoab. The chain starts around the capital town of Koror, so as you drive through there are big rocks and jungle dotting both sides of you as you cross bridges and drive near the shore.

Koror is a pleasant town with everything a tourist might need.  Over fifty restaurants to choose from, a dozen bars, several massage spas, a shopping mall.  You can walk the length of it in 15 min. I stayed on Malakal island, which is just south of Koror town, and connected by a bridge.  All the dive shops operate from Malakal, and my AirBnB apartment is literally across the street from Sam’s Tours. Each morning I could walk 3 minutes to be on the dive boat.  While this was convenient, i wish i had chosen to stay in the center of Koror. All the dive shops will pick you up and drop you back off for free, so it is not necessary to be close to them.  But each night when I wanted to go into town for dinner, I had to track down a taxi, or walk a mile.  I recommend staying right in Koror town, maybe a block or two off the main street.

If you are a diver, Palau is paradise.  You can dive somewhere new for days on end.  If you don’t dive or at least snorkel or kayak, it might be a little boring.  There are no easily accessible beaches from Koror town, so don’t be picturing Hawaii or Tahiti style beach resorts.  If you are satisfied with hanging by the pool, then there are plenty of resort hotels with nice pools, and good restaurants.  All in all, Palau is a first world, underwater paradise, with world-class tourism infrastructure, and a real commitment to protecting its environment.

Get a Palau Islands guidebook:  

There are a couple kinda-out-of-date guidebooks on Palau:  

There are several excellent books on diving and marine life in Palau:

What to Pack:

Shorts, flip-flops, and a t-shirt is the uniform.  Bring swimsuits, snorkel, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, a water-shirt to wear while snorkeling, sunglasses.  To learn how to pack light and be prepared for anything, check out my post The Worldwide Travel Packing List .

Is Palau safe?    

Palau has very low crime, and you should feel very safe while on land.  Koror enforces a curfew between 2:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., Monday through Thursday, and between 4:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Friday to Sunday, and on national holidays.  You should plan on not walking around after 2:30am, though I can’t imagine why you would anyway as not a single thing is open after midnight.  It is illegal to walk around in public with alcohol.  Homosexuality is technically illegal though unlikely to be enforced.

There is still unexploded ordnance left over from World War II.  Don’t go picking up rusty metal either on land OR underwater!

Bull sharks are common, but have not attacked divers in recent memory.

There are saltwater crocodiles, and no warning signs to indicate their presence. Reconsider going alone to explore the shoreline off the beaten path.

THANKS FOR READING

Full Disclosure:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links.  This means that if you buy anything, I’ll earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you . I only link to stuff I use, love, and recommend.  I don’t accept bribes to endorse garbage. Your clicks help keep this site alive.

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

If you enjoyed “The 12 Best Things to Do in Palau” , please share with your friends.  Sharing is Caring.

Reader Interactions

April 22, 2022 at 4:53 am

Awesome read and really good information. I used it for my trip in 2019 and once again this week! Palau is now open!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Top Things to Do in Palau

Places to visit in palau, explore popular experiences, popular cities in palau.

Top Attractions in Palau

What travellers are saying

Australia and Oceania Chevron

Palau Chevron

In the Pacific Country of Palau, Conservation and Luxury Tourism Go Hand in Hand

By Matt Ortile

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

After snorkeling with the dazzling fish of Palau ’s crystalline waters, I returned to my hotel and gratefully accepted a hibiscus lemonade and a cold lemongrass towel—a needed balm after baking in the equatorial sun. At the spa , the therapist treated my burns with a bespoke massage fusing Palauan remedies with common-sense aloe. I woke to a vermilion sunset after being lulled to sleep by the gentle rocking of the waves.

This is not the typical guest experience in Palau, a pristine and far-flung tropical archipelago east of the Philippines . The islands' vibrant coral reefs have long attracted the world's most avid divers, but the country's lack of luxury infrastructure has excluded it from the five-star travel circuit. That's about to change, however. I stayed aboard the Four Seasons Explorer , a posh 11-cabin yacht that arrived in Palau last October as a sort of advance guard for the hotel brand, which plans to build an on-shore resort in the future. The country hopes that this will be the first of many high-profile arrivals as it seeks to recalibrate its image.

“In the past, our visitors only knew diving and the ocean,” said Surangel Whipps Jr., Palau's president. “Then we had a big wave of tourists from mainland China in 2015, and that damaged the environment.” He wore a sea-blue shirt as he sat in his office in Koror , Palau's biggest city (population: 11,000), discussing the need to create jobs for local Palauans, who are increasingly going “off-island” in search of work, and to prevent Palau from being overrun with visitors. “We don't need to be the next Phuket,” he told me. To protect the ecosystem and mitigate the impact of mass tourism, Palau is building a luxury tourism model (read: high-spend, low-volume) by courting some of the ritziest names in hospitality.

The lagoon of the Rock Islands is Palau’s first UNESCO World Heritage site.

While the country knows that nature is its top draw, it is also leaning on another rich resource: its culture. The Alii Pass program, launched by the Palau Visitors Authority in 2018 (and revived in 2022, after the pandemic), offers community-led tours with Palauan experts all over the country. These include longtime must-dos like snorkeling in Jellyfish Lake as well as surprises like a historic World War II tour on Peleliu island and a visit to the ancient stone monoliths of Ngarchelong. One trip took me to the mangrove-fringed state of Airai, where locals welcomed me and the Explorer crew with Palauan songs and insight into Indigenous customs. “We don't let just anyone explain our histories or sites,” said Velma Obak, our guide in Airai. We stood before the majestic Airai Bai, a centuries-old meeting house, as she narrated the legends depicted on the building's façade. As a historian, she's working with Palau's education ministry to ensure that the cultural knowledge she's researched is shared with fellow Palauans, not just with visitors.

This goal of preservation—of both nature and heritage—is the mantra of Heather Ketebengang of the Palau Conservation Society, who took me bird-watching through the Rock Islands, a necklace of forested limestone isles resembling giant emeralds in a turquoise sea, where white terns and kingfishers sped past. Back on the Explorer, I asked her if she believed tourism could coexist with conservation. Yes, she said, but it must be a form of tourism that supports conservation, giving back to nature while hosting its stewards and the thoughtful visitors who want to see Palau—both above and below the waves. “I want everyone—including my children and grandchildren—to see Palau the way I see it today.”

Some quick facts about Palau

Population: 18,000 (2021)

Languages spoken: English, Palauan

World first: Palau banned shark fishing in 2009

Keep an eye out for: The rainbow-plumed Palauan fruit dove

This article appeared in the April 2024 issue of  Condé Nast Traveler.  Subscribe to the magazine   here .

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Why You Should Visit Palau: The Most Sustainable Island Of The Year

Made up of more than 500 volcanic islands surrounded by dazzling clear waters, the Republic of Palau is possibly the most enchanting place you’ve never heard of. But for those who have heard of Palau, it’s most recognized for its reputation as a stunning sustainable travel destination .

As a Pacific island nation, Palau is vulnerable to sea-level rise. In response to this growing threat, the archipelago is spearheading some of the most innovative and progressive conservation efforts in the world. At the helm of these efforts is environmental activist and CEO of Sustainable Travel International , Paloma Zapata. 

As CEO of Sustainable Travel International, Paloma leads the nonprofit’s global efforts to maximize tourism’s contribution to conservation and development in order to protect destinations, preserve natural environments, and improve community well-being. Since 2002, the organization has created sustainable tourism master plans that inspire responsible travel and engage local communities. With more than 15 years of experience in sustainable tourism and economic development under her belt, Paloma has created successful programs in 25 nations around the globe. Palau currently remains her most ambitious project yet. 

Palau has partnered with Sustainable Travel International and Slow Food , an organization focused on promoting sustainable, local cuisine, to develop and implement a plan to make Palau the world’s first carbon-neutral destination. The revolutionary project aims to achieve this goal by mitigating carbon emissions from tourism while boosting community resilience to the climate crisis. We spoke to Paloma about the project and how the destination will achieve this ambitious plan.

How did the idea to have tourists calculate their carbon footprint come about? 

Climate change is one of the greatest threats to our planet, people, and the destinations we visit, and we recognize that the carbon emissions generated by travel and tourism contribute to this problem. (Tourism is responsible for roughly 8% of the world’s carbon emissions.) 

We believe that raising awareness about tourism’s carbon footprint and the harmful impacts of climate change is a key step in motivating travelers to take action and demand change. When tourists calculate their carbon footprint, it helps them understand the impacts of their own actions so that they can adjust their habits to address them.  

Along with raising awareness about the issue, it is important to educate travelers on the concrete ways that they can mitigate their impact. There are of course, many actions that travelers can take to reduce their emissions, from booking direct flights to turning off the AC and lights in their hotel. However, unavoidable emissions still remain. Carbon offsetting provides a way for travelers to compensate for their negative environmental impact while also generating funding for projects that create positive change. For instance, carbon offsetting can help protect and restore ecosystems such as forests or mangroves, which play an essential role in absorbing and storing carbon. Carbon offsetting can also help to advance the clean energy transition by funding the development of renewable energy infrastructure such as wind farms or biogas digesters. Carbon offsetting also creates positive change that goes beyond emissions reductions as many projects have co-benefits such as biodiversity conservation, local job creation, or health and sanitation improvements. 

Relatively speaking, Palau has a negligible carbon footprint, so it was important for us that this program also raise awareness and inspire change on an international scale. We hope that through the program, tourists and the industry gain a better understanding of their impacts as well as where small gains can be made on the route to carbon neutralization (i.e., making less transfers, eating more locally produced food).

Sustainable Travel International began offering carbon offsets in 2004. During our early years, we pioneered travel-specific offset programs and developed industry firsts, including the first air travel carbon calculator in the US, first carbon neutral tour operator, first small ship cruise calculator, and first dive carbon calculator. Our intent was educational as much as anything in supporting first awareness and reduction, followed by offsetting remaining emissions at the end of the day. We feel that we helped to bring carbon impact internalization for individuals and organizations to mainstream consciousness through the development of the calculator. For the first time, you could equate activities with an amount of CO2 emitted, and then translate that conceptually to things like trees planted, cars taken off the road, etc. As carbon offsetting became more recognized in the latter parts of the 2000–2010 decade, we began to shift our focus to a Carbon Management approach—building on the offset offering and stressing measurement, efficiency, and reduction services. Sustainable Travel International has always been a strong supporter of the idea that reduction of emissions through efficiencies, legislation, and renewable energy should always be pitched before offsets enter the conversation as a second-best solution.  Sustainable Travel International is now building on this carbon management approach to create destination-level custom carbon programs.

Palau is the only country to have every visitor sign a mandatory eco pledge. How do you think this impacts a traveler’s mindset when visiting? Is this something other countries should experiment with?

While other countries such as New Zealand and Iceland have eco pledges, Palau is the only country to make this a mandatory requirement for all travelers upon entry.  Having strong governmental support behind such pledges reinforces the seriousness of environmental degradation and the climate crisis. It also sends the message that we are all in this together—we all have a part to play—and tourists arrive in the country with the expectation of respecting the local environment and its people. 

Once the Palau Pledge was instituted, travelers stopped complaining about the $100 green fee they had to pay upon exit—given that people realized there is actually a program framework behind it. The eco pledge concept is definitely something that other countries should experiment with, but in order to really have an impact, an entire program framework should be put behind it. 

About 85–90% of Palau’s food is imported and the partnership with Slow Food hopes to change that. Can you elaborate on this plan of action?

We will (hopefully) create a higher demand for locally produced food and therefore reduce the amount of imported food products through showcasing Palau’s gastronomic heritage and educating tourists on what they can find locally and creating a new Slow Food community in Palau and linking the members with international Slow Food communities, Palauan producers will learn ways to market their produce to tourists. We will also improve access to the tourism supply chain for local food producers through the creation of networks and capacity building, and educate tourists on how they can reduce their carbon footprint by eating locally produced instead of imported food. 

How long do you estimate it will take Palau to reach carbon neutral status and why?

For context, we define a “Carbon Neutral Tourism Destination” as one where the carbon emissions generated by tourism to and within the destination are balanced by removing an equivalent amount of carbon from the atmosphere. This is known as a net zero carbon footprint. This includes the footprint of travel to and from the destination (in Palau this would be long-haul flights), as well as any tourist activities on the ground, including ground transport, lodging, dining, and excursions. A destination can reach a net zero carbon footprint through reducing fossil fuel usage, where possible, and offsetting any remaining (unavoidable) carbon emissions. 

Thus, a number of factors influence how long it takes for Palau to become a carbon neutral destination. In order for Palau to achieve this status, it will require that all tourists participate in the offsetting program. This is why our major focus is on engaging travelers in the program from the moment they arrive in Palau and throughout the visitor experience. The other factor that plays into Palau’s carbon neutral status is the actual emissions reductions that are achieved by the tourism industry. Palau has very ambitious plans to reduce its overall energy consumption, increase the amount of clean energy it produces, and increase sustainable practices in the tourism sector. 

Palau has banned plastics and reef-damaging sunscreen and has passed some of the most progressive marine conservation laws in the world. What is next for the island nation, and do you think other countries will follow its example? 

Palau’s priority right now, as with many other tourism-dependent countries, is their Pandemic Safety certification scheme, which will give foreign visitors the assurance they need to return to Palau as tourists.  

Palau continues to make a name for itself as the Sustainable Island destination to visit this year. The next step for Palau is leading the way as the world’s first Carbon Neutral Destination. Once the program is launched, one of the top priorities will be engaging tourists and the industry in the program to ensure its success. 

As part of Sustainable Travel International’s Carbon Neutral Destination Program, this project is the first of its kind but will pave the way for an innovative tourism model that can be scaled to other island destinations. We hope that this model continues to expand and evolve over time to deliver the greatest impact. Our initial communications about the Palau program has already generated much interest internationally, and we are optimistic that other destinations will soon follow in Palau’s footsteps. 

Why will Palau diving thrive from the destination’s sustainable initiatives?

Beyond what has already been accomplished (as noted in your prior question above), a few additional ways that Palau could continue to support Paulau diving in a sustainable way include implementing a sustainable certification program for dive operators (and other tourism businesses) to ensure adherence to best practices and raising awareness among tourists about how to responsibly interact with and protect the reef.  Palau will continue to reinforce their high-value, low-impact tourism model to minimize pressure on the reef.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

*By signing up for this newsletter I consent to receive the weekly newsletter from Regenerative Travel including travel guides and inspiration.

Discover our Regenerative Travel™ hotels

The Gilded Iguana

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba

Song Saa Private Island

Hotel Aguas Claras

El Albergue Ollantaytambo

Skåbu Fjellhotell

Woods At Sasan

Camp Denali

Kasbah du Toubkal

Wythe Hotel

Basata Ecolodge

Nimali Tarangire

Emboo River

Ngalung Kalla

Andronis Concept Wellness Resort

Cherero Camp

The Manta Resort

Jade Mountain

Matetsi Victoria Falls

Rockhouse Hotel

Skylark Negril

Future Found Sanctuary

African Bush Camps – Khwai Leadwood

Tortuga Bay Puntacana Resort & Club

Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge

Blue Apple Beach

Craveiral Farmhouse

Hamanasi Resort

Tranquilo Bay

The Datai Langkawi

Fogo Island Inn

Within The Wild – Tutka Bay Lodge

• [email protected]

Get the latest updates from our newsletter

Ⓒ 2023 Regenerative Travel, Inc. • All Rights Reserved

Privacy Policy

• Regenerative Hotels™
• Experiences
• Gastronomic Residency Portugal
• Regenerative Retreat Portugal
• Virtual Trade Showcases
• Scholarship Program

10 Palau Points of Interest You Should Visit When On Palau

• April 27, 2022
• General Info About Traveling to and Diving in Palau

Tourism in Palau is centred around scuba diving and snorkelling, which both are outstanding, but there are a lot of other Palau points of interest you should see.

In this article, we will tell you where you can find the best Palau points of interest and how to get there from Koror.  There are, of course, some POI’s that can only be reached by boat!

During the Second World War, Palau was in the centre of a battle arena for control of the Pacific. As such, there are many different relics and historical sites that you can visit.

If you have plans to visit Palau and want to know more about its past, then continue reading to find out more about the top things to do in Palau.

You should probably plan two days to go and see as many of the stunning sights as you can during your visit to Palau.

Top things to do in Palau

Palau points of interest visited by boat, peleliu island: bloody nose ridge and 1,000 man cave.

One of the attractions of Palau you should not miss on your vacation is a visit to Peleliu Island.

This seemingly peaceful island was the venue of the battle of Peleliu which became one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific during WW2, and even today, many artifacts let the tragic history of the Island of Peleliu come to life.

• Location: Peleliu Island, Palau
• 70 minutes Speedboat ride from Koror (weather permitting)
• Opening hours: every day
• Entrance fee: The permit for Peleliu is $30.
• Things to see: Historical battle site from WW2, complete with relics
• Duration of visit: half to a full day. A visit can be combined with two dives around Peleliu

All our dive packages include 2 dives at Peleliu (weather permitting) where we will explore dive sites like  Peleliu wall ,  Peleliu Express  and  Peleliu cut

After our dives and lunch on the island, we embark on a guided half-day Peleliu World War II land tour.

On this tour, we will explore the remnants of a Japanese headquarter buildings and will see the many gun emplacements, tanks, planes and weapons scattered around the island.

On the island, you will also find Bloody Nose Ridge and 1,000 Man Cave. 

Bloody Nose Ridge garners its name from the fact that Marines during the war had to pass through here during the conquering of the island; a high number of casualties occurred due to the nature of the terrain, slowing their movements.

The 1,000 Man Cave is part of a system built by the Japanese to fortify themselves on the island and repel allied forces.

Read more about the battle at Peleliu Island

Milky Way Lagoon, Rock Islands

• Within the Rock Islands
• 70 minutes Speed Boat ride from Koror
• Included in our dive packages .
• Things to see: Beautiful secluded Laguna with milky “white” water and white sand
• Interesting facts: The white sand is known for its beneficial and healing characteristics.
• Duration of visit: 1 to 2 hrs.

You have probably read all about the  fantastic diving , snorkeling, and kayaking in and around the Rock Islands and the world-famous  Jellyfish Lake , and since you here already, you should take advantage of nature’s spa, the Milky Way.

The Milky Way is a secluded lagoon within the  Rock Islands . Over hundreds of thousands of years, the tides bring in water enriched with limestone and chalk particles that sunk to the bottom creating a thick layer of white rich mud.

It is sad, that when you rub yourself with the white (smelly) mud, you will look ten years younger after you rinsed it.

A trip to the Milky Way is best combined with a Rock Islands Kayak and snorkel tour.

Kayangel Atoll Belau, Palau

• Location: Kayangel Atoll, Palau
• How to get to the Kayangel Atoll?: 2 hrs speedboat ride from Koror
• Entrance fee Depends on tour operator
• Things to see: Palau’s only atoll, beautiful sea vistas, great beaches
• Interesting facts: You can book an overnight stay at a Rangers’ house or call/e-mail Kayangel state for permission to pitch a tent and spend the night on the beach for the real island experience
• Duration of visit: Full day trip

The Kayangel Atoll is the only atoll in Palau and one the most amazing Palau points of interest.  

Despite being hit by a typhoon some years ago, Kayangel still offers stunningly beautiful beaches, with white sand, seashells, and driftwood, like you only know them from your dreams. The water around the atoll is a breathtaking azure color.

The Kayangel Atoll is the perfect place to sit in the shallow water, contemplate the ocean, enjoy the natural beauty of the area and be happy. 

Spend the day here with fishing, snorkeling and sunbathing! If you’re lucky, you can even spot some wild dolphins!

Points of Interest in Koror

Koror is both a state and the biggest city in Palau. About 70% of the entire population of Palau live here. It is the island nation’s center of commerce and attracts the majority of tourism.

It has many interesting sights to offer, but if you are interested in the history and culture of Palau, you should not miss its’ museums.

The Belau National Museum, Koror

Location: Ngerbeched Hamlet, Koror

Opening hours: Monday – Friday 9 am – 5 pm, Saturday 10 am – 5 pm, Sunday 1 pm – 5 pm

Entrance fee: Adults 10 USD, Children 5 USD, discounted rates for residents

Things to see: Great overview of the history and culture of Palau and its colonialization, mostly photographs and text. Natural History Museu

Interesting facts: Besides the museum, there is also a botanical garden, a gift shop, and the Keam Cafe

Duration of visit: 1hr

Etpison Museum, Koror

• Location: Koror, Palau
• Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 9 am – 5 pm, Sundays closed
• Entrance fee: Adults 10 USD, Children under the age of 12 and residents are free
• Things to see: Overview of the history and culture of Palau and Micronesia with many ancient maps and photographs
• Interesting fact: The Museum spearheads many environmental and conservation programs
• Duration of visit: 1 hour

This beautiful little museum offers an eclectic collection of exhibits focusing on the history and culture of Palau and Micronesia .

The museum collection includes displays on foreign influence, traditional money types, the famous 1st childbirth ceremony, canoes and fish traps, rare seashells, and master carvers’ storyboards.

The museum recently added a selfie bai mural, plus a bird mural where tourists can identify the endemic birds of Palau, with sounds, photos and information on all of Palau’s birds with the iBird App . 

Palau Points of Interest on Malakal Island

Head over to Malakal Island for the perfect way to finish a day of diving or sightseeing Palau Points of Interest with a relaxed meal and a refreshing beverage!

You will find a great selection of bars, cafés, restaurants, and hotels on Malakal Island . Malakal Island is where you will find the Palau Royal Resort set in lush gardens with its private beach, but there is so much more!

Drop-Off Bar and Grill

Head to the Drop-Off Bar and Grill for a sundowner. Food is good and reasonably priced, but the seafront scenery is unbeatable! Have one of the best Pina Coladas in town and enjoy it on the deck overlooking the sea.

Kramer’s Restaurant

If you are looking for dinner, head over to Kramer’s Restaurant for awesome food and excellent service.

Kramer’s is a favourite hangout for expats living in Palau. A personal favourite from the menu is the Chicken BBQ Fajitas, which are finger-licking good, or, if you prefer seafood, try the fish tacos!

All seafood dishes are super fresh and tasty! Some people say that here they make the best mojitos on the island!

Bottom Time Bar and Restaurant

Also, the Bottom Time Bar and Restaurant deserves to be mentioned It is the ultimate sunset and evening spot for divers, yachties, and locals, offering a diverse food and beverage selection.

This is a great place to hang out and talk diving over a pint of the local draft, “Red Rooster.” There is a Happy Hour from 3 pm to 6 pm.

The bar menu includes wine, breezy island cocktails, and an international selection of canned and draft beers ranging from locally brewed Red Rooster.

Culinary choices include grilled dishes, such as pork, beef, hamburgers, chicken and fish, sandwiches, and appetizers.

Palau Points of Interest in Babeldaob

Koror is connected to Babeldaob by the Koror-Babeldaob Bridge , build in 2002, to replace the former, collapsed bridge constructed in 1978 and collapsed in 1996. In Babeldaob you will find the following point of Interest.

The Bai,  Airai State

Airai State with a population of around 3000 people is the second most populous state of Palau. It stretches over an area of 44 km², and contains the country’s major airport, the Roman Tmetuchl International Airport . Its biggest town is also called Airai.

The city is best known for its traditional Palauan men’s meeting house, a so-called Bai. In former times, each village in Palau used to have its own Bai. At the beginning of the 20th century, more than 100 bais were still in existence in Palau.

Palau’s oldest bai  (men’s meeting house) is over 100 years old, 21m long and 6m wide, with a steeply pitched roof reaching a height of 12m.

It was constructed using local materials of wood and thatch on a stone platform. A number of legendary scenes and symbolic motifs are painted inside and outside.

Look for the figure of  delerrok , the mythical money bird, found at all four corners of the  bai ; it was thought to bring good fortune to the village.

Airai Bai is in a clearing in the village of Airai. It’s not signposted; ask locals for directions. Chances are the keeper of the  bai  will miraculously appear and ask for the entrance fee.

Unfortunately, some of the Bais in existence today have not been treated kindly by Palau’s hard rains, but for anybody even remotely interested in Palauan history and culture they are still worth a visit as they used to be such an integral part of community life.

Palau’s Capital: Melekeok and the Ngerulmud

Despite Koror being the largest city in Palau, with around 20,000 inhabitants, it has not been the island’s capital since 2006.

What is the capital of Palau, you might ask?

An innocuous little town called Melekeok, on the Isle of Babeldaob, the country’s largest island, located 20 km northeast of Koror. The city, with its 400 inhabitants is the least populous capital of any sovereign state worldwide.

Melekeok, Palau’s capital, is the home of Palau’s capitol building, the Ngerulmud, the administrative seat of Palau. It is a most impressive building, maybe a little too grand for such a modest, but lovely town as Melekeok!

The Ngardmau Waterfall in Babeldaob

• Location: Babeldaob
• How to get The Ngardmau Waterfall: Drive up north from Airai, 40 minutes’ trek from entrance to Waterfall
• Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm, open every day
• Entry fee: 20 USD p.p ( Tickets can be purchased on the parking lot )
• Things to see: beautiful views, ruins of the Japanese colonial times and the Ngardmau Waterfall
• Duration of visit: 2 to 3 hrs

The Ngardmau Waterfall in Babeldaob is the largest waterfall in Palau. This waterfall is around 30 m high and 37 m wide.

As you follow it downstream, you can find beautiful little pools and miniature waterfalls.

During the hike to the waterfall, you can find historical remains of Japanese colonial times along the trail, such as an old locomotive and other parts of an old railway system. 

If you’re not much of a hiking person, you can take the monorail or even a zip-line down to the Ngardmau Waterfall.

According to a Palauan legend, then Ngardmau waterfall was formed by the body of a spirit, a huge eel with only one eye, that was believed to be a God.

One day, this spirit fell into a deep sleep, and unable to wake up again, his body developed into the river, with the head becoming the Ngardmau Waterfall.

Stone Monoliths of Ngarchelong

Located at the northernmost point of Babeldaob you will find a series of stone monoliths. Legend has it these were placed there by a god to support the building of a Bai to hold all of his people.

• Location: Badrulchau, Babeldaob
• Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm
• Entrance fee: 5 USD
• Things to see: Stone monoliths, scenic view over the ocean
• Interesting facts: The big stones to build these monoliths do not originate from the island of Palau, but had to be imported from elsewhere
• Duration of visit: one hour

What are monoliths? Monoliths are defined as large blocks of stone or a statue, obelisk or column cut from one block of stone. Examples include Stonehenge or the colossal statues of men on the Easter Island, the so-called Moais.

The Badrulchau Stone Monoliths are a lot smaller in size, and all-around also less impressive, but nevertheless worth a visit.

The Stone Monoliths of Ngarchelong are part of a historic site that is shrouded in mystery, and no one knows the exact origin of these structures. In local religion, they were regarded as a sacred area for prayers and rituals, but today, they are a very popular site for history lovers and tourists alike.

There are in total 39 stone structures protruding oddly from the ground; you’ll be inspired at how these objects have stood the test of time for thousands of years. Experts believe that these monoliths were built in 100 AD.

Impressive enough to astonish, yet small enough to be fully appreciated, many of these four-foot tall structures resemble smaller versions of the type of artifacts seen on Easter Island (though without human characteristics ascribed to them).

The largest of these stones weighs 5 tons. The views around the monoliths are strikingly beautiful with great views over the Pacific Ocean.

A tour of the Ngardmau waterfall can easily be combined with a visit of some of Palau’s stone monoliths, which are approximately a 30 min ride from the Ngardmau waterfall.

What is the best way to visit the Palau points of interest?

You can visit all the mentioned Palau points of interest by yourself at your own pace. Renting a car is quite easy and relatively cheap compared to other remote places in the world.

You can find rental cars at King’s Motel, Budget Cars and Palau Automotive just to name a few.

As you can see, Palau and its many islands have so much more to offer than just great diving and snorkelling!

Dive deeper into the fascinating history and culture of the islands and enjoy the hospitality of these amazing people and this will become the holiday of a lifetime!

If you’re dying to come to Palau (for the first time), give us a call at our U.S. office (310 321-2558) , or contact us directly via our contact form and we’ll help you figure it out. Sometimes getting clear, informed answers makes all the difference!

Related Posts

Here is How To Get To Palau!

Finally a Quicker Route Into Palau from the USA

• The Ultimate Guide to Diving in Palau

Coronavirus Information for Palau 

Marine Environmental Science Part 2: Diving Deeper (we can’t help ourselves 😀)

Diving Deeper (see what we did there?!) into Marine Citizen Science 

PALAU DIVE ADVENTURES PALASIA HOTEL KOROR, PALAU

• (310) 321-2558
• (44) 121 318 4748
• [email protected]
• PALAU DIVE ADVENTURES BLOG
• PALAU TRAVEL GUIDE DOWNLOAD
• PALAU WEATHER FORECAST
• PALAU DIVE PACKAGES
• Coronavirus Info for Palau

Contact Your Dive Shop in Palau

PALAU DIVE ADVENTURES PALASIA HOTEL KOROR, PALAU CALL or TEXT: +310 321 2558

• Meet the crew

Small Print

• CANCELLATION, DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT POLICY
• PRIVACY STATEMENT
• COOKIE POLICY

© 2023 Palau Dive Adventures, Your Dive Shop in Palau. All rights reserved. 

Peleliu Caves: A Guide to Exploring the Historic WWII Site

Peleliu Caves: A Guide to Exploring the Historic WWII Site If you’re interested in history, the Peleliu Caves in the Pacific island nation of Palau might be a fascinating topic for you. These caves are the remnants of World War II, specifically the Battle of Peleliu, which was fought between the United States and Japan…

Battle of Palau

Battle of Palau: A Decisive Turning Point in World War II The Battle of Palau was a significant military operation that took place during World War II. It was fought between the United States and Japan between June and November 1944. The campaign was part of the larger Pacific War, which saw the Allies fighting…

Milky Way Palau

Milky Way Palau: A Lagoon with White Clay Mud Believed to Have Healing Powers Palau’s Milky Way is a natural wonder that draws visitors from all over the world. The Milky Way is a lagoon located in the Rock Islands of Palau, a Micronesian country. The lagoon is known for its therapeutic properties, and locals…

Palau Diving: Exploring the Pristine Waters of Micronesia

Palau Diving: Exploring the Pristine Waters of Micronesia Palau is a world-renowned diving destination located in the Western Pacific Ocean. It is home to some of the most diverse and abundant marine life in the world, making it a must-visit location for divers of all levels. With over 1,500 species of fish and 700 species…

Women of Palau: Celebrating the Achievements and Contributions of Palauan Women

Women of Palau: Celebrating the Achievements and Contributions of Palauan Women Palau is a country located in the Pacific that is home to a unique culture and history. One aspect of this culture is the role of women in society.   Women in Palau have a rich history of traditional roles and responsibilities, as well…

Palau Tourism: Discover the Best Attractions and Activities in this Pacific Island Paradise

Palau Tourism: Discover the Best Attractions and Activities in this Pacific Island Paradise Palau, an archipelago of over 500 islands in the western Pacific Ocean, is a hidden gem of natural beauty and adventure. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, Palau is a paradise for beachgoers, snorkelers, and divers. The islands…

Ngardmau Waterfall: A Majestic Natural Wonder in Palau

Ngardmau Waterfall: A Majestic Natural Wonder in Palau Ngardmau Waterfall, located in Palau, is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. This stunning waterfall is the tallest in Micronesia, cascading from the peak of Mt Ngerchelchuus, which stands at 217 meters high. The waterfall can be accessed by foot or…

Food of Palau: A Culinary Journey Through the Island Cuisine

Food of Palau: A Culinary Journey Through the Island Cuisine Palau, a small island country located in the western Pacific Ocean, is known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. One of the most significant aspects of Palauan culture is its food, which is a unique blend of traditional Palauan cuisine and…

Palau Island People: A Look into the Culture and Traditions of the Indigenous Community

Palau Island People: A Look into the Culture and Traditions of the Indigenous Community Palau is a small island nation located in the Pacific Ocean. The people of Palau are a mix of various ethnic groups, including Melanesian, Micronesian, Austronesian, Japanese, and Filipino. The country’s population is estimated to be around 20,000, with the majority…

Types of Indigenous Art in Palau

Types of Indigenous Art in Palau Indigenous art is an essential part of Palauan culture and heritage. It reflects the history, beliefs, and traditions of the indigenous people of Palau. Palauan art has a unique style and is created using natural materials such as wood, shells, and fibers. These pieces of art are often intricate…

Where to Shop in Palau: A Guide to the Best Shopping Spots

Where to Shop in Palau: A Guide to the Best Shopping Spots If you’re planning a trip to Palau, you might be wondering where to go shopping. Palau has a variety of shopping destinations that cater to different interests and budgets. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, local crafts, or high-end fashion, you’re sure to find…

What Types of Merchandise Can You Buy in Palau?

What Types of Merchandise Can You Buy in Palau? If you’re planning a trip to Palau, you might be wondering what types of merchandise you can buy while you’re there. Palau is a small island nation located in the western Pacific Ocean, and it’s known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating history….

What is the Best Luxury Lodging in Palau?

What is the Best Luxury Lodging in Palau? If you’re planning a luxury getaway to Palau, you’re in for a treat. This Micronesian archipelago boasts some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, from pristine beaches to lush forests and coral reefs teeming with marine life. But where should you stay to truly…

What Airports Are There in Palau?

What Airports Are There in Palau? A Comprehensive Guide to the Airports in Palau Palau is home to several airports that play a crucial role in connecting the archipelago with the rest of the world. The main airport is Palau International Airport, located near Koror, which serves as the primary gateway for travelers visiting the…

What Airlines Serve Palau?

What Airlines Serve Palau? If you’re planning a trip to Palau, one of the things you’ll need to consider is which airlines serve the country. Palau International Airport is the primary airport serving the country, and it is located on Babelthuap Island. While the airport is relatively small, it offers flights to and from several…

Where to Find Non-Stop Flights to Palau

Where to Find Non-Stop Flights to Palau If you’re planning a trip to Palau, you might be wondering where you can catch a non-stop flight to this tropical paradise. While Palau is a popular destination for tourists, it is not the easiest place to get to. However, there are a few direct flight options available…

Is There Inter-Island Transportation in Palau?

Is There Inter-Island Transportation in Palau? If you’re planning a trip to Palau, you may be wondering about inter-island transportation options. Palau is an archipelago of over 340 islands, and while some are uninhabited, there are several key destinations that visitors may want to explore. Whether you’re interested in experiencing the local culture, exploring nature,…

Do Cruise Ships Visit Palau?

Do Cruise Ships Visit Palau? If you’re planning a cruise to Palau, you may be wondering how frequently cruise ships visit this Pacific island destination. Palau is a small island nation located in the western Pacific Ocean, consisting of about 300 islands, of which only 8 are inhabited. Despite its size, Palau is a popular…

How to Get to Palau: A Travel Guide for Adventurers

How to Get to Palau: Your Ultimate Guide If you’re looking for a tropical getaway, Palau is a great option. This archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean is known for its stunning beaches, marine life, and diving opportunities. But how do you get there? In this article, we’ll explore the different ways you can travel…

Entertainment Options on Palau

Entertainment Options on Palau If you’re planning a trip to Palau, you may be wondering what entertainment options are available. As a small island nation located in the western Pacific Ocean, Palau is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. However, there are also plenty of other entertainment options available for visitors to…

What are the Closest Major Micronesia Islands to Palau?

What are the Closest Major Micronesia Islands to Palau? If you’re planning a trip to Palau, you may be wondering which other Micronesian islands are nearby. Located in the western Pacific Ocean, Palau is part of the larger Micronesia region, which consists of thousands of small islands. Despite the vast number of islands in the…

What are the Intra-Island Transportation Options in Palau?

What are the Intra-Island Transportation Options in Palau? If you’re planning a trip to Palau, you may be wondering what your options are for getting around the island. Fortunately, there are several intra-island transportation options available to you, ranging from air travel to land and maritime travel. In this article, we’ll explore the various transportation…

Essential Packing List for Palau

Essential Palau Packing List for Adventure Travelers Embarking on an adventure to Palau, an archipelago of over 500 islands in the Pacific, is a dream come true for many thrill-seekers. With its crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, Palau offers an array of exhilarating activities from scuba diving to jungle trekking. Preparing adequately is essential…

Discovering Palau’s Marine Life: A Snorkeling Guide

  Welcome to the underwater wonderland of Palau, where snorkeling enthusiasts can witness an aquatic tapestry woven with vibrant corals, bustling marine life, and clear azure waters. We are passionate about showcasing the ethereal beauty beneath the waves of this Pacific paradise. Set off on a snorkeling journey that promises to be as enlightening as…

Unique Accommodation Options in Palau for Adventure Seekers

  When you envision a trip to the breathtaking islands of Palau, you might picture the pristine turquoise waters and the abundant marine life. However, this gem in the Pacific offers more than just its natural beauty; it’s a haven for adventure seekers looking for unique lodging experiences that go beyond the ordinary. In this…

Planning Your Palau Itinerary: A Week of Adventure

7 Days in Paradise: Crafting the Ultimate Palau Adventure Itinerary   Immerse yourself in this guide meticulously crafted to ensure that your seven-day journey through the enchanting islands of Palau is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment you set foot in this Pacific paradise, each day will unfold with new marvels, from the mesmerizing…

Top Dive Sites in Palau for Underwater Enthusiasts

Exploring the Blue Wild: The Ultimate Guide to Palau’s Top Dive Sites for Marine Adventurers Diving in Palau is not just an activity; it’s a journey through a kaleidoscope of aquatic wonders. From the ethereal lakes filled with millions of jellyfish to WWII wrecks that whisper tales from the deep, this guide is your compass…

Palau’s Culinary Delights: A Guide to Local Cuisine

Savoring Palau: An Epicurean Journey Through the Archipelago’s Traditional Cuisine   In this post, we take you on an epicurean journey through the traditional cuisine of the breathtaking Palauan archipelago. As part of our commitment to showcasing the ultimate adventure experiences, we invite you to savor every bite of Palau’s culinary heritage, a tantalizing blend…

Exploring Palau’s Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Unveiling Paradise: A Journey Through Palau’s Secret Wonders and Wild Adventures   Welcome to a realm of untouched wilderness and breathtaking beauty – Join us in uncovering the hidden treasures of Palau. Nestled in the Western Pacific Ocean, this archipelago is a sanctuary of secluded wonders that promise the ultimate adventure for those willing to…

The Best Time to Witness Palau’s Manta Ray Migration

Timing the Tides: The Prime Season to Experience Palau’s Spectacular Manta Ray Migration   Each year, an extraordinary natural event graces the waters surrounding the pristine islands of Palau: the majestic manta ray migration. These gentle giants of the sea embark on a journey that captivates divers and marine enthusiasts from around the globe. We…

Seasonal Wildlife Migrations in Palau to Observe

Journey Through the Seasons: Witnessing Palau’s Spectacular Wildlife Migrations   Our passion for nature’s wonders invites you to immerse yourself in the rhythmic dance of wildlife migrations. The enchanting archipelago of Palau, a place of extraordinary biodiversity, plays host to some of the most awe-inspiring migratory events on Earth. Join us as we explore the…

Palau’s WWII wrecks: A Scuba Diver’s Guide

Palau’s World War II Wrecks for Scuba Divers: Exploring History Underwater Palau is a small island country located in the western Pacific Ocean and is known for its stunning natural beauty. However, what many people don’t know is that Palau was also the site of fierce battles during World War II. Today, the remnants of…

Rare Marine Life Encounters in Palau Waters

Unveiling the Hidden Gems: Extraordinary Encounters with Rare Marine Life in the Waters of Palau   Welcome to a world of underwater marvels with Palau Explorer. In the heart of the Pacific, lies a sanctuary of marine diversity, the archipelago of Palau. This pristine paradise offers not just a window, but a gateway to a myriad…

Exploring Palau’s Jellyfish Lake Phenomenon

Diving into Wonder: Unveiling the Mysteries of Palau’s Enchanting Jellyfish Lake   Welcome to Palau Explorer, where we go beyond the ordinary to bring you the most mesmerizing experiences in Palau. Today, we’re going to delve deep into one of the world’s most incredible natural phenomena – Jellyfish Lake. Nestled in the rock islands of Palau,…

Kayaking Adventures Through Palau’s Rock Islands

Paddling Paradise: Exploring the Hidden Wonders of Palau’s Rock Islands by Kayak Welcome to a realm where the cerulean sky touches the crystal-clear sea, and nature’s artistry is displayed in the magnificence of the Rock Islands of Palau. Join us at Palau Explorer, as we guide you through the serene and captivating world of kayaking adventures…

Conservation Efforts to Protect Palau’s Reefs

Guardians of the Blue: How Palau’s Pioneering Conservation Efforts Safeguard its Priceless Coral Reefs Palau, an archipelago of over 500 islands in the western Pacific Ocean, is a beacon of marine biodiversity, home to some of the world’s most pristine coral reefs. This natural treasure, however, faces significant threats from climate change, overfishing, and tourism….

Underwater Photography Tips in Palau

Capturing the Deep Blue: Essential Underwater Photography Tips for Exploring Palau’s Marine Wonders Embarking on an underwater journey to photograph the pristine marine life in Palau can be both thrilling and challenging. With its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Palau offers a unique opportunity for divers and photographers to capture a world teeming with…

Top Sustainable Practices for Visitors to Palau

Green Footprints Across the Pacific: Best Sustainable Practices for Travelers Visiting Palau . As custodians of one of the planet’s most extraordinary natural treasures, it is our duty to ensure that the beauty of Palau remains unspoiled for future explorers. In this blog, we will delve deep into the best sustainable practices that you, as…

Discovering Hidden Gems of Palau’s Islands

  Welcome to a voyage of discovery where the vibrant blues of the Pacific Ocean meet emerald isles of untamed beauty. Palau Explorer invites you to cast away the map and journey into the heart of Palau’s hidden treasures. Come along as we delve into the mysteries of the untouched paradise that awaits the intrepid traveler. The…

Cultural Heritage Sites of Palau Tour

Exploring the Timeless Wonders: A Journey Through Palau’s Cultural Heritage Sites Welcome to Palau Explorer, where we embark on a journey through the remarkable cultural heritage sites of Palau. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific, Palau boasts a rich tapestry of history and tradition, manifesting in its stunning historical landmarks and monuments. As we delve…

'Palau against China!': the tiny island standing up to a giant

Archipelago is refusing to switch diplomatic allegiance from Taiwan to China, despite a huge downturn in its tourism industry

Wearing a Hawaiian shirt and sipping an iced tea, Ongerung Kambes Kesolei sits at a veranda bar overlooking a hotel pool, under fans that slowly push humid air around on a quiet Sunday afternoon.

But the calm of the scene is deceptive, for Kesolei is explaining that his small island home of Palau – a dot on the map in the north-west corner of the Pacific with a population of just over 20,000 people – has attracted the ire of one of the world’s most powerful nations and is now at the centre of a geo-political bunfight.

“They [China] want to weaken Tsai Ing-wen [the Taiwanese president] and that’s where Palau comes into play,” said Kesolei, the editor of one of Palau’s two newspapers.

Palau is one of just 17 countries that has refused to give up diplomatic relations with Taiwan and switch allegiance to China.

Palau, which was under US administration until its independence in 1994, struck up diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 1999 after a few years of what Kesolei calls “wooing” from both Beijing and Taipei. The almost 20-year friendship has been strong, with Kesolei saying “every Palauan has a story” of interaction with Taiwan, whether travelling there for a holiday, education or medical treatment.

But Taiwan’s allies are slowly being chipped away, as China puts the pressure on and seeks to penalise those that recognise self-ruled Taiwan, which Beijing considers a Chinese territory. El Salvador switched its allegiance last month , and Burkina Faso and the Dominican Republic severed ties with Taiwan earlier this year .

Those countries that continue to recognise Taiwan – particularly the six Taiwanese allies located in the Pacific, where China is seeking to increase its influence – are feeling the pressure.

‘The governments are having a fight’

For tiny Palau, where tourism accounts for 42.3% of GDP, this pressure has come in the form of what the locals call the “China ban”.

In November 2017, the Chinese government ordered tour operators to stop selling package tours to Palau, with reports that doing so could lead to fines.

Some insist Palau has always been a blacklisted destination but that until recently the Chinese government turned a blind eye.

Evan Rees, Asia-Pacific analyst at Stratfor, says China uses such bans – as well as the granting and withholding of Approved Destination Status (ADS) to countries – as “part of a larger toolkit for compelling behaviour”.

Last year, South Korea was the subject of such a travel ban, after a row over its deployment of a US missile defence system, which had a devastating impact on tourism to the country during the PyeongChang Winter Olympics.

The bans affect package tours booked through travel agencies, which accounts for about 45% of all Chinese tourists, said Rees, though independent Chinese travellers are still able to visit “banned” destinations.

One Palauan-based Chinese businessman said the word “Palau” had also been blocked as an internet search term in China.

The impact of the ban on Palau has been stark.

The number of tourists from China has plummeted so dramatically that one airline flying charter flights between China and Palau stopped flights at the end of August, because “the Chinese government made Palau an illegal tour destination possibly and most likely due to lack of diplomatic status”.

Palauan tour operators and government officials bridle at suggestions the ban has brought Palau to its knees – there were still 9,000 visitor arrivals in July – but occupancy rates at hotels have dropped and businesses are hurting.

The pain of the ban has been particularly acute because it was immediately preceded by a staggering boom in tourism from China, with tourist arrivals from the country skyrocketing from 634 in 2008 – making up less than 1% of all visitors – to more than 91,000 in 2015 – 54% of all visitors.

At Elilai restuarant, which is heavily promoted as the “best restaurant in Palau” on billboards all over the island, I am the sole diner in a restaurant that could comfortably accommodate 50.

Waitress Donita Rose Cagaoan-Tipay is apologetic about the empty room, saying it was the result of a “ban from China”, though she says she doesn’t know much more about it than that.

“I asked my friend who is a Chinese tour guide, he said Palau and China, the governments are having a fight,” she explains.

The empty restaurants are a far cry from 2014 and 2015, when charter flights from China began landing every day each carrying hundreds of tourists.

Leilani Reklai says the impact on the island was overwhelming. “Guys were running around town buying land, getting cash in suitcases and buying everything in sight,” says Reklai, who is the president of Palau’s tourism association.

Reklai owned two boats that took tour groups to the Rock Islands, the most famous of Palau’s tourist attractions, which before the Chinese boom would go out four days a week during peak season.

“But for almost one year my guys were going out seven days a week” she says.

“Some people were saying ‘This is the Chinese strategy, this is what they do, they are going to pour a lot of money in here, and get you addicted like it’s Coke and then turn off the faucet’. But of course, money was louder so people weren’t listening,” says Reklai.

At 70, Francis Toribiong has had almost every job in the tourism business. He says the dip hurt “everybody”. Toribiong has been forced to sell a 25-bed hostel but says he got off relatively lightly.

“There are so many young men who went to the development bank and borrowed hundreds of thousands of dollars to buy boats,” he says. Now, demand has dropped so much that they are lucky if they are able to make enough to cover fuel and the loan repayments.

A blessing in disguise?

Despite the pain, most people agree the boom was unsustainable.

At its peak in 2015, 169,000 tourists arrived in Palau and the country’s power, water and sewage systems struggled to cope. There was huge inflation, and the price of food and rent skyrocketed.

“There was an outcry,” says Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl, chairman of the Palau Visitors Authority, the government’s tourism marketing arm. “Prices of crabs went up, prices of fish, rents went up, people were displaced. There was an apartment that was going for $500, now they charge $1,200. There was a shortage of rooms. Apartments [were converted] from apartments to hotels.”

Kevin Mesebeluu, director of the bureau of tourism, says the China ban may be “a blessing in disguise”, giving Palau a chance to reevaluate its approach to tourism.

“The president has been very clear about the direction,” he said. “High-value, low-impact sustainable tourism.”

Indeed, the country was heading down this path before the ban came into effect. In 2015, Palau’s president, Tommy Remengesau, announced a reduction in the number of charter flights between China and Palau, in response to environmental and social concerns.

Reklani thinks this decision, which came into effect gradually, means Palau escaped much more serious financial trouble. “We definitely got out in time, this pain we’re going through, it would have been so much worse,” she says.

Since the China ban, Remengesau has reiterated his commitment to Taiwan, telling the Nikkei Asian Review that while China was an “important partner” Palau had “more in common with Taiwan”.

A statement from his spokesperson was even more defiant, suggesting Palau would not bow to pressure: “Palau is a country of laws, it is a democracy and we make our own decisions.”

However, there are others who would not mind seeing Palau switch diplomatic horses.

“It’s about time that we focus our interests and views towards the People’s Republic of China,” said Senate president Hokkons Baules in July at the groundbreaking ceremony for a Chinese-backed resort, according to the Island Times.

The China-Taiwan question is expected to be a key issue at the next presidential election in 2020. But the Taiwanese ambassador to Palau, Wallace Chow, says he is not worried about the relationship, saying it is “very solid”.

Speaking to Guardian during an event for 25 Taiwanese youth ambassadors who are spending several days in Palau as part of a “soft power” mission, Chow says it is this “down-to-earth, to the people, for the people” approach that will keep Palau onside.

But Palauans may also be persuaded by the more than $10m in aid provided by Taiwan to the country each year, reminders of which are dotted around the island as signs announce that road or building projects are funded by Taiwanese grant money.

“I’m very confident that the Palauan people know who is their true partner and which side their bread is buttered,” said Chow.

Under the slowly moving fans, Kesolei says he does not expect a diplomatic switch anytime soon. “It’s part of our culture that we are very loyal to our friends,” he says.

Palauans also like the image of themselves as a country that is standing up to a superpower.

“Some of my social circle enjoy this limelight. Palau against China! This tiny thing against the world’s biggest [country]! Some of my friends say: if we have the power to decide, let’s be the last man standing with Taiwan, [other] countries will think we don’t just switch, we stay with our friends until the very end.”

• Asia Pacific

Most viewed

• About Micronesia
• Marshall Islands
• Map of Micronesia
• Photos & Videos
• Social Media
• Getting Here
• Visa Requirements
• Health & Safety
• Where to Stay
• Getting Around
• Travel Guide
• BOOK Your Travel
• #MICRONESIA Tagboard
• Happenings in Micronesia
• Start Your Experience

“Pristine Paradise. PALAU”

Palau's 500 tropical islands offer endless attractions across both land and sea. Visitors will find a wide variety of experiences, from the wildly adventurous to the luxuriously relaxing.

This island nation in the Pacific is actually home to a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon. The marine and terrestrial areas of the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon have unparalleled biological and cultural value to Palau and the world.

Palau is often likened to the Serengeti beneath the waves. Whether you're an avid scuba diver or simply have a deep appreciation for the ocean, you will truly enjoy the luxury of Palau’s pristine waters.

You can find over 1,500 species of fish and 700 types of corals. Dive or snorkel amongst living reefs, schools of colorful fish, coral gardens, and sunken treasures. Kayak through shallow lagoons, jungle canopies, and mangrove channels...keep your eyes open for the 147 species of birds that inhabit Palau of which 13 of those species are endemic to Palau.

Your journey through Palau not only unveils breathtaking landscapes but also introduces you to the resilient spirit of its people, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity for an enlightening and enriching travel experience. If you seek the true essence of travel, let Palau be your guide—allow yourself to lose track of time and surrender to the authenticity that defines this remarkable destination.

All visitors must have a valid passport not less than 6 months from date of expiration and proof of return arrangements.

VISAs are NOT required. A 30-day Tourist Visa will be issued upon arrival and may be extended within 7 days in advance with approval of the Chief of Immigration for a fee of US$50.00 before expiration date of the visa. (Note: Maximum of 90 days: 30 days upon arrival plus 2 extensions at US$50.00 fee per extension. After which visitors must exit the country). Citizens of United States of America, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Guam, and the Common Wealth of Northern Marianas Islands with valid passports are issued 1 year Visa upon arrival. Citizens of Myanmar and Bangladesh must have a pre-approved visa.

Learn more about Palau by visiting pristineparadisepalau.com

Back to top

• Events & Stories
• Travel Guide

Palaui Island

It is a sensory treat pleasing every island visitor to have a 360-degree view of Palaui’s rugged cliffs and craggy coastlines, vast grasslands and valleys, uninhabited islands, and white coral beaches. From this viewpoint, enjoy the seascape featuring Engaño Cove and Dos Hermanas Islands, and catch sight of the Babuyan Islands. After some unhurried trekking, hikers can reach the weather-beaten late 19th-century Cape Engaño Lighthouse (Faro de Cabo Engaño).

The compound features a battered and weathered housing pavilion and its 11-meter octagonal tower that now runs on a solar-powered beacon. Built almost four years in the late 19th century (September 21, 1888 to December 31, 1892), the lighthouse is the crowning touch of anyone’s Palaui adventure. The lighthouse is not just all about this beautiful island. Its nature trekking activities will show off its diverse flora and fauna, while its pristine and secluded beaches are something to be fired up. After a tiring trek, visitors can enjoy relaxing massages and partake in delicious island food. With its rough-hewn physical features, this weathered and out-of-the-way travel destination is what makes this island magical. More fascinating are its warm people, passionate about caring for and preserving the island close to its uninhabited past. The Protected Area Management Board thru Palaui Environmental Protectors Association (PEPA) is at the forefront of conservation, protection, and sustainable tourism efforts in the island.

• February 2024
• October 2023
• September 2023
• August 2023
• February 2023
• December 2022
• November 2022
• October 2022