Try to look up ”the Republic of Palau” on google maps and get ready to be stunned by a breathtaking chain of islands floating in the heart of the magnificent western Pacific Ocean. The Republic of Palau, aka Belau, is an absolutely stunning island country surrounded by the pristine, crystal-clear waters of the ocean on all sides. The country consists of over 340 coral islands; each one is filled with wonderful volcanic peaks, charming villages, and green mangrove forests. 

Palau boasts astonishing beaches, mind-blowing dives, and the friendliest people you will ever meet. If you are a water enthusiast and crave an unwinding atmosphere, Palau is the best destination for you. If you haven’t heard of Palau yet, there is no need to worry; we have got you covered.

Why You Should Consider Palau for Your Next Vacation

Palau is a small nation located in Micronesia and is famous for being one of the top scuba diving destinations in the whole world. It offers a diverse range of activities, most of which involve getting wet. 

Explore the Underwater World

Palau is a scuba diver’s paradise waiting to be explored. With its exquisite coral reefs and exceptionally diverse marine life, there is so much to discover and appreciate. Imagine diving into the turquoise waters and watching over 1,500 different fish species and more than 700 coral species!

With amazing tropical weather all year long, you can experience the thrill of diving anytime you want. However, underwater visibility can reach up to 40 metres from November through May, making this time of year ideal for scuba divers. With a variety of world-class diving options available, including wreck dives, cave dives, and drift dives, you’ll be able to indulge in the ultimate diving experience.

You won’t believe the incredible dive sites that await you in this archipelago. Get ready to explore the thrilling German Channel, the breathtaking Ulong Channel, the awe-inspiring Blue Corner, and the mysterious Helmet Wreck. It is time to dive into an adventure of a lifetime! Each dive site offers a thrilling opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind and extraordinary sections of the vast ocean. This is the perfect spot to witness an incredible underwater world filled with a plethora of soft corals, eels, grey reef sharks, anemones, manta rays, and so much more.

Watch the Golden Jellyfish

Jellyfish are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful wonders of the sea. The lake is home to millions of the rarest jellyfish in the world and is nestled among amazing mangrove trees. If you are looking for a refreshing, unforgettable experience, a visit to this astonishing place is an absolute must. 

Jellyfish Lake is a safe and enjoyable destination for all visitors, as the jellyfish that live there are completely harmless. Rest assured that even if you were to feel their sting, it would only cause slight discomfort.

While on the lake, you may catch a glimpse of the mesmerising jellyfish migration. These delicate creatures rely on the sun’s nourishing rays to thrive, and you can witness their journey as they gracefully move between the eastern and western shores. It’s a truly enchanting sight to behold.

Dive Into the Chandelier Cave

The magnificent Chandelier Cave is located beneath the earth’s surface; it is a stunning five-chamber cave system that beckons to be explored. The entrance to this natural wonder sits about 4 metres below the surface, inviting adventurers to embark on a journey into the earth’s depths. 

As you go down into the cave’s depths, you will be mesmerised by the crystal-clear waters and the breathtaking visibility surrounding you. Spectacular stalactites and stalagmites decorate the cave’s ceiling and floor, creating an enticing scenery. It’s a haven for scuba divers, where you may discover the ocean’s mysteries and appreciate the natural world’s splendour.

Visit the World-Famous Rock Islands

Have you heard about the UNESCO World Heritage site, Palau Rock Islands? They are like a bunch of tiny limestone and coral islands just chilling in Palau’s Southern Lagoon. They go by the name Chelbacheb, and there are hundreds of them. You can find them between Koror and Peleliu, but they are under the administration of the state of Koror.

Their unique mushroom shape has made many of them quite famous. The Rock Islands are absolutely wonderful with their gorgeous beaches, pristine lagoons, and unique umbrella-shaped formations. You won’t believe your eyes! 

The forces of erosion have shaped the indentation, which is home to a thriving community of marine life. Among the diverse array of creatures that call this place home are sponges, bivalves, chitons, snails, urchins, and other algae-grazing species.

The Rock Islands is a must-visit spot for any traveller who seeks a unique and unforgettable experience. To fully appreciate the charmer of this natural wonder, we recommend embarking on a day trip around the Rock Islands, complete with stops at the breathtaking Milky Way. 

Alternatively, you can take to the skies and enjoy a scenic flight over Rock Islands, taking in all its splendour from a bird’s eye view. Whichever way you choose to explore this enchanting destination, you’re sure to be left in awe of its natural heavenliness.

Make New Friends to Learn About Their Culture

With its small population of approximately 18,000, Palau is characterised by a unique charm that is hard to find elsewhere. The locals are the soul and heart of this place, making it a memorable destination for travellers seeking an authentic experience. 

When you arrive in Palau, you will immediately be struck by the warm and welcoming nature of the locals. The Palauans are truly humble people, always eager to lend a hand and share their knowledge of the area. Their friendly and helpful demeanour will make your stay in this beautiful country all the more enjoyable.

As you wander through this splendid country, you can’t help but notice the deep appreciation the locals have for their heritage and culture. It is truly inspiring to witness their dedication to preserving their traditions and passing them down to future generations. From the vibrant festivals to the intricate artwork, every aspect of their culture is celebrated with pride and joy.

Different Cuisines, One Place

What are you craving? American? Italian? Or maybe Japanese? Whatever your appetite desires, you will be able to try dishes from all around the world in Palau. Palauan cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours influenced by a diverse range of cultures, including the United States, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. 

It’s amazing to see such a diverse range of restaurants with something to suit everyone’s taste. From Indian curries with a Palauan twist to fresh sushi and sashimi bars, Italian, American, Chinese, Korean, and local restaurants, there’s no shortage of delicious options to choose from. Local seafood is undoubtedly the star of numerous menus, and there are plenty of exotic local dishes that are worth trying.

The local cuisine in this Pacific country is rich in flavour and features staple root vegetables like taro, pandan, yams, and pumpkin. Taro, in particular, holds great significance as a traditional food source for the Palauan people and is exclusively harvested by women. 

Tropical Means Fruits

While strolling through the bustling streets of this tropical paradise, you will be mesmerised by the vibrant fruits on display. From the succulent dragon fruit to the juicy mango, every fruit seemed to be bursting with flavour and colour. As you explore further, you can find some lesser-known varieties like rambutan and soursop, which are equally delicious and exotic. It is truly a feast for the senses!

On top of that, just like in any tropical spot, the ubiquitous presence of coconut is prominent. Its distinct flavour and aroma seem to infuse almost every traditional dish, from savoury fish dishes to hearty soups. It is clear that this versatile ingredient is a beloved staple of the local cuisine.

Scheduling Your Trip

There are two distinct seasons in Palau’s tropical climate: the dry and the wet. From December to April, you can enjoy the dry season’s warm weather and low humidity. Tourists typically flock to the country during this time of year to enjoy its nice, sunny weather. And if you are seeking water activities like swimming, diving, or snorkelling, this is when you should visit Palau.

Travelling between May and November may be better for you if you are seeking warm weather but don’t mind frequent rainfalls and high humidity levels. Despite the unfavourable weather conditions, you can still participate in various activities available on the islands. During this time, accommodations and flights are usually cheaper and less crowded.

Palau has a consistently stable climate with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F) throughout the year. Besides, Palau is situated in an area not affected by typhoons. Your itinerary and interests will essentially determine your ideal time to visit Palau.

There is only one international airport in Palau, Roman Tmetuchl International Airport. Despite its small size, the airport receives direct flights across four different countries: 

• Incheon, South Korea 
• Taipei, Taiwan
• Manila, Philippines
• Guam

All in All

Palau is an absolute dream destination for vacationers all around the world. Can you believe that there are still so many people out there who haven’t discovered the jaw-dropping splendour of Palau? It’s time to prepare yourself for an unforgettable Pacific Ocean journey.