Things To Do
in Palau
Palau is an island country located in the western Pacific Ocean, famed for its pristine natural beauty, comprising around 340 islands. It is part of the larger island group of Micronesia and is known for its rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs, blue holes, and an array of unique sea creatures.
Palau is a favored destination for scuba divers and eco-tourists, attracting visitors with its stunning landscapes, both underwater and above, including the famous Jellyfish Lake, where visitors can swim among millions of harmless jellyfish.
- "Alii" - Hello
- "Ungil Tutau" - Good Morning
- "Ungil Ukabes" - Good Evening
- "Kmal melekoi" - Thank you very much
- "Ke kmal mesaul" - You're welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Palau and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view of the ocean.
Visit the famous Jellyfish Lake for a unique swimming experience with millions of harmless jellyfish. Take a guided boat tour to learn about the marine ecosystem.
Dine at a local restaurant and sample traditional Palauan cuisine. Stroll along the beach to watch the sunset.
Head to the beautiful beaches of Ngermid for sunbathing and swimming. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Partake in water sports such as kayaking or snorkeling to explore the vibrant coral reefs. Grab a quick lunch from a beachside vendor.
Enjoy a beach bonfire with friends or family, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows. Watch the stars light up the night sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and turquoise waters
- Rich biodiversity, including unique marine life and coral reefs
- Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for relaxation
- Strong focus on eco-tourism and conservation efforts
- Welcoming and friendly locals with a rich cultural heritage
- Limited infrastructure and amenities in some areas
- Higher cost of living and travel due to its remote location
- Potential for natural disasters such as typhoons
- Job opportunities may be limited, especially for expatriates
- Import reliance on goods can lead to higher prices
Best Activities in Palau
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in the clear waters of Palau. Popular snorkeling spots include Jellyfish Lake and the Rock Islands.
Palau is renowned for its world-class diving sites, including the Blue Corner and the Peleliu Wall, where you can encounter various fish species, rays, and even sharks.
Paddle through the stunning lagoons and around the Rock Islands, enjoying the scenic beauty and tranquility of Palau's natural landscape.
Take advantage of Palau's lush jungles with hiking trails like the one to the Cradle of the Pacific, offering breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
Discover the many beautiful islands of Palau, each with unique landscapes and ecosystems, accessible by boat. Don't miss sights like Ngeruangel Island and Ngemelis Island.
Experience sport fishing in the rich waters around Palau, targeting species such as tuna, marlin, and barracuda.
Explore the ancient limestone caves, such as the famous Ngardmau Falls cave, where you can witness stunning rock formations and underground pools.
Enjoy bird watching and spotting exotic species like the Palau Micronesian Kingfisher and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Engage with the local culture by visiting traditional villages, experiencing local customs, and understanding the history of the Palauan people.
Places to Visit in Palau
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning archipelago known for its unique limestone formations and crystal-clear waters, perfect for breathtaking views and photography.
Famous for its white sand and rich, mineral-rich mud, this lagoon offers picturesque views and is a great spot for capturing stunning sunsets.
The tallest waterfall in Palau, surrounded by lush rainforest. The sight of cascading water and vibrant greenery provides excellent photo opportunities.
A renowned dive site characterized by steep coral walls. Photographers can capture mesmerizing underwater scenery and marine life.
A pristine area teeming with diverse marine life, ideal for underwater photography and capturing vibrant marine ecosystems.
Offers panoramic views of the capital city and surrounding landscapes, ideal for capturing the essence of Palauan geography.
An uninhabited island with beautiful beaches and clear waters, perfect for scenic shots and secluded photo opportunities.
Known for its spectacular seascapes and rich marine biodiversity, Ulong Channel is a prime location for underwater and landscape photography.
Food in Palau
Palau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Palauan communal feast featuring dishes like broiled fish, marinated raw fish, taro, and yams. Bai is a must-try showcase of Palauan culinary traditions and can be experienced at various local gatherings and cultural events.
Must-Try!
A Palauan specialty featuring grilled reef fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, often served with cassava or taro. Visitors can savor this dish at local restaurants and food stalls near the coastal areas.
Taro and breadfruit are staple crops in Palau, and they are incorporated into various dishes such as taro soup, roasted breadfruit, and taro leaf stew. These can be found in traditional eateries and local households.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Koror, Mekdau Market is a bustling hub offering fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample grilled fish, tropical fruits, and Palauan snacks from the vibrant street food stalls in the market vicinity.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Palauan culture, elders are highly respected and revered. It is important to greet them politely and to show deference in conversations and social settings.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or the local churches. Swimwear should only be worn at the beach or pool areas, and revealing clothing is generally frowned upon in public settings.
Familiarize yourself with local customs, such as the traditional practice of 'bai' (meeting house) etiquette. It's important to seek permission before taking photographs of people or sacred sites, as this can be seen as intrusive.
Safety
Tipping in Palau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Palau is generally not mandatory, but it is appreciated, especially in the hospitality and tourism sectors. A customary tip of around 10-15% is common in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. It is also common to tip tour guides and drivers for exceptional service. However, travelers should be aware that tipping practices can vary and are largely at the discretion of the customer.
Payment methods in Palau typically include cash, credit cards, and debit cards. The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency. Most establishments, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations, accept major credit cards. However, smaller businesses might prefer cash, so it's recommended to carry some local currency. ATMs are available, but it’s wise to check for fees associated with international cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is considered the best time to visit Palau due to lower humidity and minimal rainfall. Visitors can expect sunny days, ideal for diving and snorkeling, with water temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F). Popular tourist activities include exploring the Rock Islands, visiting Jellyfish Lake, and engaging in various water sports.
The wet season brings higher humidity and increased rainfall, particularly from July to September. While this may deter some visitors, it can also mean fewer crowds and lush landscapes. Diving visibility may vary, and storms can occur, but adventurous tourists can enjoy unique marine life and vibrant ecosystems that thrive during these months.
The shoulder months of May and October offer a mix of both dry and wet season attributes. Visitors can expect some rain but also many sunny days. This period is great for those looking to avoid the peak tourist season while still enjoying pleasant weather and outdoor activities, including kayaking and hiking.
Palau at Night
Hiking in Palau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading to the largest waterfall in Palau, featuring lush tropical surroundings and rich biodiversity.
A hike that takes you to the famous Jellyfish Lake, offering stunning views and the chance to swim with millions of non-stinging jellyfish.
While primarily known for its marine life, there are several nature trails that offer hiking opportunities through diverse ecosystems.
Various trails around Babeldaob Island, providing a mix of forested areas, cultural sites, and opportunities for birdwatching.
Hiking opportunities across the Rock Islands, featuring unique rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding waters.
Airports
How to reach Palau by plane.
The largest airport in Palau located on Babeldaob Island, it serves as a primary gateway for international flights.
Located in Guam, this is one of the nearest major international airports to Palau, serving as a hub for many international carriers.
Located in Kwajalein, Marshall Islands, this airport serves both military and civilian flights and is one of the larger airports in the region.
Located in French Polynesia, while not a direct connection, it serves as a significant airport for connections to other parts of the Pacific.
Located in Samoa, this airport handles many international flights and is one of the larger airports in the South Pacific area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Palau, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes various ethnic groups such as Chinese, Filipino, and others contributing to the community.
Includes migrants and descendants from other Pacific Island nations.
Includes a small number of residents from non-Pacific and non-Asian backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Palau, with many schools and communities participating in local leagues and tournaments.
Baseball has a strong following in Palau, with organized teams and tournaments that attract participants of all ages.
Given its beautiful beaches and favorable waves, surfing is a popular sport among locals and tourists alike.
Soccer is played widely among the youth, and there are various local leagues that draw in community support.
Canoe racing is a cultural sport in Palau, showcasing the island's heritage and bringing communities together during competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Palauan cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Palau offer vegetarian alternatives such as vegetable stir-fries, tropical fruit platters, and salads with locally sourced ingredients.
Vegan options are available at select dining establishments, with dishes like coconut-based curries, grilled vegetable skewers, and fresh fruit smoothies offering flavorful alternatives for vegan visitors.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy fresh seafood, fruit, and rice-based dishes, and many restaurants in Palau are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs, offering dishes such as grilled fish, fruit salads, and rice bowls.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Palau.