Palau Travel Guide
Country Island nation in the western Pacific Ocean
Palau entices travelers with its underwater wonders. Scuba divers flock to the Rock Islands, where coral gardens and WWII wrecks lie beneath the surface. On land, the island nation offers a glimpse into Micronesian culture, with traditional bai meeting houses and lush, untouched landscapes.
Why Visit Palau #
Kayak among Palau’s iconic limestone Rock Islands - mushroom-shaped islets rising from turquoise water - and beach on secluded coves. Combine paddling with snorkeling reefs that teem with life; go early in the morning to avoid tour crowds. Many outfitters in Koror offer half‑day and multiday trips.
If open, swimming in Jellyfish Lake on Eil Malk is a rare wildlife encounter: millions of harmless golden jellyfish drift around you. Check current access and health advisories before planning. If the lake is closed, Palau still delivers world-class snorkeling and marine conservation education.
Palau’s Blue Corner and German Channel dives are pilgrimage sites for divers seeking big pelagics, sharks and manta rays. Dive operators handle logistics and conservation briefings; expect strong currents and unforgettable drift dives. Non‑divers can still enjoy glass‑bottom boat trips and snorkeling at sheltered reefs.
Palau’s seabed holds numerous WWII wrecks and aircraft around Peleliu and Angaur - accessible to technical divers and fascinating for history buffs. Surface tours and museums in Koror provide wartime context. Respect wrecks as gravesites and follow local rules about artifacts.
Spend a day or two exploring hidden lagoons and sea caves by kayak, landing at limestone beaches and snorkeling coral gardens. Guided tours add cultural stops like small fishing villages and provide reef‑safe sunscreen. This slow, hands‑on approach is the best way to read Palau’s marine and island geography.
Who's Palau For?
The Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake offer secluded kayaking and extraordinary snorkeling; boutique lodges on Koror are perfect for couples who want nature by day and quiet dinners by night.
Palau’s calm lagoons, shallow snorkeling and easy kayak trips suit families; children enjoy safe beaches around Koror and guided boat tours through the Rock Islands.
A limited hostel scene and high prices make Palau less backpacker‑friendly. Independent travelers can find cheap guesthouses but diving and transport costs add up quickly.
Infrastructure is compact but pricey and coworking options are minimal. Short internet outages happen; Palau is best for short work stints rather than full‑time remote living.
Fresh tuna, breadfruit and coconut feature heavily; Koror markets sell sashimi‑fresh fish and tropical fruit. Palauan cuisine is simple, seafood‑forward and local‑market oriented.
World‑class diving at Blue Corner and dramatic WWII wrecks make Palau a top adventure destination. Kayaking through sea‑arch islands and snorkeling with manta rays are major draws.
Nightlife is quiet outside resort bars; expect relaxed drinks and occasional live music rather than clubbing. Palau is for early sunsets after full days on the water.
The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon (UNESCO) and pristine coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots. Limestone islands, hidden beaches and marine reserves make Palau exceptional for nature lovers.
Regions of Palau #
Koror & Babeldaob
Koror is the gateway: dive shops, museums and the busiest stretch of restaurants and guesthouses. Across the causeway, Babeldaob’s broad interior offers jungle trails, waterfalls and cultural sites that contrast the island nation’s marine fame. Combine land-based days with boat trips to get the full Palau mix.
Top Spots
- Koror - Palau’s main hub with shops, dive operators and lively eateries.
- Babeldaob - Island hikes, waterfalls and traditional bai meetinghouses.
- Ngerulmud area - Palau’s administrative centre and quiet roads for exploration.
Rock Islands
The Rock Islands are Palau’s cinematic heart: hundreds of limestone islets rising from turquoise water, dotted with hidden lagoons and coral gardens. Kayaking, snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours reveal abundant marine life; divers will recognise world-class sites around the chain. Expect postcard scenery and a calendar full of dive options.
Top Spots
- Jellyfish Lake - Swim among non-stinging jellyfish in a surreal marine lake.
- Ngerukewid - Classic kayaking among mushroom-shaped limestone islets.
- Blue Corner - World-class marine biodiversity for divers.
Peleliu & South
Peleliu and the southern outlying atolls attract history buffs and those wanting off-grid calm. Peleliu’s war memorials and relics are a sobering draw, while nearby atolls and northern pockets offer remote fishing, birding and lonely beaches. Travel here requires extra planning but rewards with solitude and strong historical context.
Top Spots
- Peleliu - Intense WWII battlefields and quiet beaches.
- Kayangel - A remote northern atoll admired for fishing and solitude.
- Ngardmau - Waterfalls and rainforest escapes on Babeldaob.
Top Cities in Palau
All Cities ›
Best Things to Do in Palau
All Attractions ›
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Planning Your Trip to Palau #
1 Week Palau Itinerary
Arrive Koror, kayak the Rock Islands, snorkel Jellyfish Lake if open, dive WWII wrecks, visit Peleliu memorials, explore Babeldaob's forests and Ngerulmud, relax on Long Beach before departure.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Koror; explore town and local markets.
- Day 2 - Boat tour to Rock Islands; kayak and snorkel.
- Day 3 - Swim at Jellyfish Lake if access permitted.
- Day 4 - Half-day dive or snorkel at Ngemelis Coral Gardens.
- Day 5 - Drive Babeldaob to Ngerulmud and rainforest trails.
- Day 6 - Day trip to Peleliu memorial sites and snorkeling.
- Day 7 - Relax on Long Beach; depart from Koror.
2 Weeks Palau Itinerary
Focus on Koror and Babeldaob: extended Rock Islands exploration, multiple dives, Peleliu memorials, conservation visits, island charters, local markets and remote beaches.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Koror; settle in and meet local guides.
- Day 2 - Full-day Rock Islands boat and snorkeling trip.
- Day 3 - Dive Blue Corner or Ngemelis Wall dive site.
- Day 4 - Jellyfish Lake visit and small-boat island hopping.
- Day 5 - Day trip to Peleliu memorials and WWII sites.
- Day 6 - Babeldaob drive: Ngardmau Waterfall and local villages.
- Day 7 - Kayak lagoon near Malakal Island.
- Day 8 - Marine conservation center visit and community tour.
- Day 9 - Free day: beach or cultural craft markets.
- Day 10 - Fishing charter or sunset cruise.
- Day 11 - Explore small outer islands by charter.
- Day 12 - Relaxation day and departure prep.
- Day 13 - Depart from Koror.
3-4 Weeks Palau Itinerary
Deep Palau itinerary combining multiple dive days, Rock Islands sea-kayaking, Peleliu history, Babeldaob cultural stays, marine volunteering and remote island-hopping for photography and reef exploration.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Koror; meet dive operator and plan trip.
- Day 2 - Multi-day Rock Islands kayaking and snorkeling circuit.
- Day 3-4 - Liveaboard or island-based diving at Ngemelis and Blue Corner.
- Day 5 - Visit Peleliu for extended historical tours.
- Day 6 - Babeldaob cultural village stays and rainforest trekking.
- Day 7 - Explore lesser-known western rock islands by boat.
- Day 8 - Community conservation projects and reef restoration volunteering.
- Day 9 - Island-hopping to remote islets for photography.
- Day 10 - Rest day and market shopping in Koror.
- Day 11 - Specialty dive days or additional snorkeling.
- Day 12-14 - Explore Palau's east coast and Ngerbeched Marine Protected Area.
- Day 15-21 - Optional extension: return to Peleliu or explore outer atolls.
Best Time to Visit Palau #
Palau has a tropical marine climate with a drier season from about November to April and a wetter season from May to October. Temperatures stay warm year‑round while rainfall peaks mid‑year, affecting sea conditions and diving visibility.
January
January falls in Palau's drier season with relatively low rainfall and good visibility for diving and snorkeling. Sea conditions are generally calm and island transport is reliable.
Events
No major festivals this month.
February
February typically has stable weather and is a popular month for underwater activities; humidity is moderate. Visitor numbers are steady and facilities operate normally.
Events
No major festivals this month.
March
March continues the drier pattern with clear days and good marine visibility, making it well suited for diving and boat tours. Crowds are moderate compared with peak winter holidays.
Events
No major festivals this month.
April
April is a transitional month when showers become more frequent toward May; rain is often interspersed with sunny periods. Prices may start to ease as the high season ends.
Events
No major festivals this month.
May
May marks the beginning of the wetter months with increasing afternoon showers and higher humidity. Diving is still possible but expect more variable surface conditions.
Events
No major festivals this month.
June
June is within Palau's wettest stretch; heavy showers and occasional storms are common, and visibility can decline underwater. Some operators reduce schedules or adjust itineraries during prolonged wet periods.
Events
No major festivals this month.
July
July often sees sustained rainfall and higher humidity; travel by small boat can be rougher and some remote sites become less accessible. Expect fewer tourists and lower prices for accommodation.
Events
No major festivals this month.
August
August is typically among the wettest months with frequent heavy showers and possible storm activity; marine visibility can be reduced. This is a quieter time for visitors though diving conditions are more variable.
Events
No major festivals this month.
September
September remains within the rainy season; expect intermittent heavy rain and higher seas. Some travelers prefer this period for lower prices, but plan flexibly for weather-related changes.
Events
No major festivals this month.
October
October is a shoulder month with rainfall decreasing toward November; diving visibility starts to improve. Visitor numbers are typically lower than the November-April high season.
Events
No major festivals this month.
November
November marks the beginning of the drier season with generally clearer skies and improved sea conditions favorable for diving and boating. Demand begins to pick up as weather improves.
Events
No major festivals this month.
December
December is within the dry season and is popular for visitors; expect steady weather and good marine visibility. Bookings rise around year-end holidays.
Events
- Independence Day - Palau observes Independence Day on October 1; major national events are typically most active in the October period.
How to Get to Palau #
Visitors generally arrive at Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR) on Babeldaob; common international connections come via regional hubs (e.g., Guam or Manila). Palau is an island nation, so sea connections are limited and most travel is by air.
- Palau grants visa-free entry or visa on arrival to many nationalities, including citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, the EU, Canada, Australia and New Zealand - typically for stays up to 30 days.
- Travelers from other countries should verify visa requirements with a Palauan diplomatic mission before departure.
- Passport should be valid for at least 6 months on arrival and you'll commonly be asked to show onward or return travel.
- Some visitors are required to show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds; health checks can apply depending on global conditions.
International Airports
All Airports ›How to Get Around Palau
Palau International (ROR) handles all international arrivals; inter-island air services are limited and most visitors use ROR as their base. For general visitor information see the Palau Visitors Authority.
Book inbound and outbound flights well in advance during dive season when demand rises.
Small boat services and day-trip operators connect Koror with outer islands and dive sites. Local operators run reef and lagoon transfers; schedules depend on demand and weather.
Bring cash for boat trips and confirm pick-up times with your operator the evening before departure.
Renting a car is one of the easiest ways to explore Palau’s main islands; local and international agencies operate on Koror. Roads around Koror and Babeldaob are generally in good condition but watch for narrow stretches and pedestrian traffic.
Driver’s licenses from many countries are accepted for short-term rental; confirm age and insurance rules with the provider.
Taxis and hotel shuttles provide arrivals transfers and island tours - negotiate fares in advance or confirm fixed rates through your accommodation. Many dive operators include transfers as part of package bookings.
Cash is commonly preferred for short transfers; ATMs exist but may be limited.
Palau is best explored by dive and charter boats for remote reefs and Blue Corner sites. Certified dive operators provide full-day and multi-day charters; check operator credentials and included equipment.
Popular operators and tour listings are linked from the official visitor site above.
Where to Stay in Palau #
Most visitors stay in Koror and Malakal; small waterfront hotels and mid-size resorts cater to divers. Choose accommodation near the Koror boardwalk for easy access to dive operators and restaurants.
Dive-focused resorts on Koror and nearby islands offer package dive trips and on-site gear storage. Expect bungalow-style rooms or waterfront suites with easy boat access to Blue Corner and Rock Islands.
Family-run guesthouses in Koror provide affordable rooms and island advice. These are practical for solo divers and budget travelers wanting simple kitchens and proximity to boat ramps.
Local homestays on outlying islands provide cultural exchange and home-cooked meals; arrivals usually require coordination with hosts or local operators. Ideal for travelers wanting village life and remote island routines.
Monthly apartments and long-term guesthouse arrangements in Koror suit researchers and extended diving trips. Expect limited listings-arrange utilities and transport to dive shops in advance.
Staying Connected in Palau #
Palau’s connectivity centers on Koror and the main islands, where PNCC provides mobile and fixed services. Mobile data coverage is good in populated areas but internet capacity can be limited, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Tourist SIMs are sold by the national operator PNCC. Expect SIMs in the $10-$25 range with prepaid data top‑ups available at the airport or PNCC shops. Plans are straightforward but data can be pricier than in larger markets.
The Palau National Communications Corporation (PNCC) is the primary provider, handling mobile, fixed broadband and visitor services. Coverage is strongest on Babeldaob and Koror; smaller outer islands may have weaker service or rely on satellite links.
Resorts, guesthouses and many dive operators provide Wi‑Fi for guests; bandwidth is often limited. There are few formal coworking venues - visitors typically depend on hotel Wi‑Fi or a PNCC mobile connection for remote work.
Expect patchy coverage on small outer islands and atolls. eSIM availability is minimal - buying a local PNCC SIM on arrival is the simplest option.
Money & Currency in Palau #
Palau uses the US dollar (USD). Cards are widely accepted in Koror and at resorts, though cash remains useful for small vendors and remote islands. ATMs are available in Koror but limited outside main tourist areas.
Approximate mid-market rates · Charts & history
- Tipping: Tipping is common in tourism-related services; around 10% in restaurants or modest tips for guides and drivers.
- Cards & Cash: Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard most commonly) are accepted at hotels, many restaurants and dive operators in populated areas; carry cash for markets and remote services.
- ATMs & Mobile Payments: ATMs are concentrated in Koror; expect bank withdrawal fees from your home bank. Mobile payment adoption is limited-cash remains essential outside town.
- Banknotes: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100
- Coins: 0.01, 0.05, 0.10, 0.25, 0.50, $1
Health & Safety in Palau #
Palau is a safe, tourism-oriented country with low violent crime but limited healthcare and significant marine risks. Primary concerns are ocean safety for diving, unpredictable weather, and the need for evacuation-capable travel insurance due to remote medical services.
- Ocean & Diving Safety - Palau offers world-class diving but strong currents, sudden drop-offs and remote dive sites pose risks. Dive with licensed operators, check local conditions, carry a dive computer and emergency signaling gear. Be cautious of boat traffic when snorkeling.
- Health & Medical Access - Medical facilities are limited; serious illnesses or trauma often require evacuation to Guam, the Philippines or Hawaii. There is no malaria but dengue and sporadic mosquito-borne illnesses occur. Bring medications and ensure travel insurance covers medevac.
- Road & Driver Safety - Roads in Koror and Babeldaob can be narrow and poorly maintained; watch for pedestrians and free-roaming dogs. Drive on the right, obey speed limits, and avoid night driving on rural roads where lighting is sparse and signage limited.
- Typhoons & Severe Weather - Palau can be affected by tropical storms and heavy rains, mainly in mid-year. These can cause flooding, rough seas and canceled inter-island transport. Monitor weather alerts, secure accommodation, and avoid coastal areas during storms.
- Petty Crime & Scams - Violent crime is uncommon but petty theft and opportunistic scams happen, especially around markets and tourist spots. Keep belongings secure, don't leave gear unattended, and confirm prices and transport arrangements in advance to avoid overcharging.
- Marine Wildlife & Hazards - Coral cuts, stonefish and jellyfish stings are real hazards; wear reef shoes and avoid touching marine life. Carry a basic first-aid kit for cuts and stings, know how to seek local medical help, and respect protected marine areas.
History & Culture of Palau #
Palau’s cultural identity centers on matrilineal clans, village-based community life and a deep connection to reefs and lagoons; traditional governance and modern conservation coexist and shape everyday practices.
History of Palau
Palau was settled by Austronesian-speaking peoples millennia ago and developed distinct island-based societies organized around clans, matrilineal lines and marine resource use. European contact and later colonial administrations brought new influences-Spanish, then German and Japanese periods-before Palau became part of the U.S.-administered Trust Territory after World War II.
The islands saw intense fighting in World War II (notably the Battle of Peleliu) and afterward entered a long transition toward self-government. Negotiations over the Compact of Free Association with the United States culminated in Palau achieving full sovereignty and entering the Compact in 1994; contemporary Palau blends traditional governance, reef-based livelihoods and active conservation policies that travelers will notice at both community and national levels.
Notable Figures
- Haruo Remeliik - Palau's first president (1981-1985), whose assassination in 1985 was a pivotal moment in the nation's modern political history.
- Roman Tmetuchl - A prominent businessman and political leader influential in Palau's economic development and political negotiations in the 20th century.
- Thomas 'Tommy' Remengesau Jr. - Long-serving president known for championing environmental protection and marine conservation policies.
Key Dates
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c. 1000 BCEAustronesian-speaking peoples settle the islands, developing clan-based societies tied to reef and lagoon resources.
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1899Spain sells its Pacific possessions, including Palau, to Germany as colonial control shifts in the region.
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1914Japan occupies Palau during World War I and administers the islands under a League of Nations mandate in the interwar years.
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1944American forces capture Palau after heavy fighting; Peleliu is the site of one of the war's fiercest Pacific battles.
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1947Palau becomes part of the U.S.-administered Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands under United Nations auspices.
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1980s-1994A decade of referendums and negotiations over political status culminates in the Compact of Free Association with the United States.
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1994Palau becomes a sovereign republic in free association with the United States.
Palauan cuisine centers on seafood, starchy staples (taro, breadfruit) and coconut; many meals are simple, locally sourced and tied to community feasts and respect for seasonal catches.
Language
Palauan is the indigenous language, spoken alongside widespread English use; in tourist areas English suffices, while simple Palauan greetings are appreciated in villages.
Useful Phrases
- Hello - Alii ah-LEE
- Where is the market? -
- Do you speak English? -
- How much does this cost? -
- Can you show me the way to the pier? -
- Is this path safe at high tide? -
- Thank you (in English commonly used) -
- May I join the meal? -
- Is this locally caught? -
- Help! -
- I need a doctor. -
- Call the police. -
Responsible Travel in Palau #
Palau relies on strict visitor responsibility to protect world‑class reefs and customary lands. Follow the Palau Pledge, support local conservation programs, and use community‑based operators to ensure tourism benefits residents.
- Palau Pledge & Visitor Responsibility: All visitors are required to sign the Palau Pledge on arrival; read and honor it - it commits you to protect Palau’s environment and culture during your stay. Keep a signed copy visible and follow local instructions about protected zones and fishing restrictions.
- Responsible Diving & Reef Care: Palau protects its reefs and shark populations; use mooring buoys, never touch corals or marine animals, and follow dive operator briefings especially in Jellyfish Lake and around the Rock Islands. Respect no‑take zones and avoid bringing invasive species on boats.
- Support Conservation Science: Learn about and, where appropriate, donate to the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC), which leads reef monitoring and restoration. Book eco‑certified operators who contribute to local conservation efforts.
- Respect Local Customs & Landowners: Many visitor sites lie on customary land - always ask permission before landing on islands or visiting villages, remove shoes when invited into homes, and accept local protocols for gift giving. Hiring local guides ensures benefits reach communities.
- Avoid Single‑Use & Support Local Business: Bring reef‑safe sunscreen and reusable bottles; prefer locally owned guesthouses, restaurants and dive shops to channel tourism income into Palauan communities and conservation initiatives.
Travel Resources for Palau #
Official
- Palau Visitors Authority / Palau Tourism Official Tourism
- Republic of Palau - Official Government Portal Government
Travel Advisories
Palau Embassies Abroad
News & Media
- RNZ Pacific (Radio New Zealand) English
- Pacific Islands Report (University of the South Pacific) English
Useful Links
Useful Apps for Palau
- WhatsApp Messenger - Widely used for messaging and local coordination in Palau.
- Google Maps - Navigation and locating attractions and services in Palau.
- Google Translate - Translate phrases when communicating with locals.
- Maps.me - Offline maps for islands and diving spots.