Table of Contents
Introduction
Palau is a small island country located in the western Pacific Ocean. Though it receives far fewer visitors compared to bigger tourist hotspots in the region, Palau has no shortage of incredible natural attractions waiting to be explored. With lush green islands, secluded beaches, and some of the world’s best diving and snorkeling sites, Palau is a hidden gem for adventurous travelers looking to get off the beaten path. Let’s take a look at some of the best hidden gems in this Pacific paradise.
Overview of Palau
Palau is an archipelago made up of over 500 islands, though only 9 are inhabited. The largest island is Babeldaob, while Koror Island is the most populated and serves as the country’s economic center. Though Palau is technically located in Micronesia, it has strong cultural ties to Melanesia as well. The local Palauan culture has its roots in the diverse mix of settlers who came to the islands over the centuries.
Palau enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 23-32°C (73-90°F). Though small in size, Palau boasts incredible biodiversity. Over 1,300 species of fish and 700 species of coral can be found in its waters. On land, lush tropical rainforests are home to rare birds and plants. With so much natural beauty, it’s no wonder Palau is full of hidden surprises waiting to be uncovered.
Hidden Gems of Palau
Rock Islands
One of Palau’s most iconic sites is the Rock Islands, a collection of ancient limestone islands rising dramatically from the sea. Made up of 445 small islands, this maze-like aquatic playground features secluded beaches, hidden lagoons, and an underwater world that must be seen to be believed.
Most tours explore only a small section, but adventurous travelers can spend days kayaking and exploring on their own. Don’t miss snorkeling through turquoise waters to find hidden coral gardens teeming with sea turtles and tropical fish. Scuba divers will find walls, caverns, and wrecks to explore beneath the waves.
Jellyfish Lake
For a truly unique experience, head to Jellyfish Lake on Eil Malk Island. Here you’ll be surrounded by—you guessed it—jellyfish! But don’t worry, the golden jellyfish in the lake have evolved to lose their sting, making for an otherworldly swimming and snorkeling experience.
Visitors can follow the outer rocky path to view the lake from above, before taking the plunge into the warm water with thousands of gentle, pulsing jellyfish. Early mornings are best, before crowds arrive at this popular spot.
Milky Way Lagoon
Another of Palau’s photogenic natural wonders is Milky Way Lagoon on the small island of Ngkesill. Here, white limestone sediment mingles with the water, giving it a milky turquoise hue that sparkles in the sun.
Paddle around in a kayak, snorkel in the shallow waters, or walk along the white sandy beach while keeping an eye out for migratory birds. Neighboring Ngkeklau Island is also worth exploring to find empty beaches and World War II relics.
Ngemelis Island
For pristine beaches and a true castaway experience, head to the uninhabited island of Ngemelis, located just a 15-minute boat ride from Koror. With not a single resort or hotel in sight, you’ll have this idyllic island to yourself to enjoy exceptional snorkeling, swimming, beachcombing, and birdwatching.
Pack a picnic lunch along with your own snorkel gear, and take in a full day relaxing on soft white sand beaches lined with coconut trees. Keep an eye out for sea turtles swimming in the shallows.
Palau Pacific Resort
This luxurious resort on the main island is a hidden paradise offering a spa, private beach, five restaurants, and an internationally acclaimed golf course. Spend the day getting pampered at the spa before watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand on your own stretch of white sand beach.
Beyond the resort, guests can easily access world-class diving, hidden waterfalls, and magnificent rock islands teeming with tropical birds. With airport transfers included, the Palau Pacific Resort lets you relax in seclusion while exploring Palau’s many wonders.
Things to Do
Snorkeling and Diving
With an abundance of healthy and diverse coral reefs, Palau offers some of the world’s very best snorkeling and scuba diving. From wreck dives to wall dives to manta ray encounters, divers of all levels will find incredible underwater sights.
Don’t miss the famous Blue Corner dive site, where strong currents bring reef sharks, tuna, barracudas, and more. For snorkelers, there are fringing reefs, hidden coves, and calm waters to explore all over Palau.
Kayaking
Paddling through the lush Rock Islands in a kayak or outrigger canoe is a must. You’ll be able to access hidden lagoons and pristine beaches not reachable by most boat tours. For true solitude and an adventure, try kayak camping. Pack a tent and supplies to spend the night under the stars on a secluded stretch of sand.
Hiking and Birdwatching
With thick jungles, hidden waterfalls, WWII sites, and walking trails, hikers have plenty of options in Palau’s islands. Or head to Ngardmau Waterfall on Babeldaob for a refreshing jungle trek. Serious birdwatchers can spot endemic species like the Palau owl, Palau fantail, and Palau ground dove.
Travel Tips
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Palau is flying directly to Palau International Airport from hubs like Manila, Seoul, Taipei, and Guam. From there, it’s a quick drive to Koror.
Getting Around
Palau’s islands are small enough to explore by rental car. Kayak and boat tours are the best way to access more remote sites. Taxis and public buses provide transport between islands.
Where to Stay
Koror offers resorts, hotels, and guesthouses to suit all budgets. For seclusion, stay in a beachfront bungalow at a smaller island resort. Camping is allowed on uninhabited islands with permits.
Best Time to Visit
Palau enjoys a tropical climate year-round but is driest from December to April. For diving, February to June offers best visibility underwater. Avoid typhoon season from July to October.
Conclusion
With world-class diving, secluded beaches, verdant jungles, and fascinating cultural sights, Palau has paradise to spare. Though it flies under the radar of most travelers, this Pacific gem has natural wonders waiting to be uncovered by intrepid explorers. Whether you seek adventure and adrenaline or relaxation and solitude, you’re sure to discover hidden surprises in this island nation. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Palau adventure today!
FAQs:
What are the main islands of Palau?
The main islands of Palau are Koror, Babeldaob, Peleliu, and Angaur. Koror is the most populated and the location of Palau’s capital city Melekeok. Babeldaob is the largest island overall.
How do you get to Palau’s Rock Islands?
To get to the famous Rock Islands, you can join a boat tour from Koror or rent your own kayak. Independent kayaking allows you to access more secluded spots in this island maze.
What is there to do in Palau besides diving?
Top things to do in Palau besides scuba diving include snorkeling in Jellyfish Lake, hiking to waterfalls in the jungle interior, visiting WWII sites, kayaking through the Rock Islands, and cultural experiences in Koror.
What is the best time of year to visit Palau?
The best time to visit Palau is during the dry season from December to April when rainfall is low and underwater visibility is ideal for diving and snorkeling. Avoid the rainy season from July to October when there is a higher risk of typhoons.
How long should I stay in Palau?
To experience the top sights and natural wonders of Palau, plan to stay 5-7 days minimum. With over 500 islands to explore and world-class diving, you could easily spend 10+ days discovering everything Palau has to offer intrepid travelers.