COUNTRY GUIDE
Palau
Pristine diving paradise in the Pacific
Palau sits in the western Pacific like nature's own private aquarium. This tiny island nation of 340 islands delivers some of the planet's most incredible diving, where manta rays glide overhead and jellyfish lakes glow like liquid gold. But here's the thing — Palau isn't just about what's underwater. Above the surface, you'll find luxury eco-resorts, pristine beaches that see maybe a dozen visitors per day, and a culture that's figured out how to protect paradise while sharing it with the world. The catch? It's expensive and remote. But if you can swing it, Palau offers something most destinations can't: the feeling that you're seeing Earth as it was meant to be.
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Districts
1 destination
Koror is where most visitors base themselves, and for good reason. The former capital has the best restaurant scene, dive operators, and the only real selection of accommodations. Palau Pacific Resort sits on Arakabesan Island, connected by bridge, offering luxury with lagoon views for around $600 per night. Downtown Koror puts you walking distance from Sam's Tours and Fish 'n Fins, the island's top dive outfitters.
Babeldaob, the main island, offers a different vibe entirely. Airai has a few guesthouses near the airport, perfect if you're doing a quick diving trip. But the real gem is staying at one of the eco-lodges in the interior — places like Carp Island Resort, where solar power and composting toilets come with some of the most pristine snorkeling right off your deck.
Peleliu draws history buffs and serious divers. The WWII battlefield island has basic accommodations, but you're here for the Orange Beach dive sites and the sobering war memorials, not luxury amenities.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1.Book accommodations 3-4 months ahead — Palau has limited rooms and prices spike during peak season
- 2.Bring cash in US dollars — many local businesses don't accept cards, and ATMs are scarce outside Koror
- 3.Pack your own snorkel gear to avoid daily rental fees of $15-20 per day
- 4.Buy groceries at WCTC Shopping Center for breakfast and lunch supplies — restaurant meals add up quickly at $25-40 per person
- 5.Consider staying in Airai near the airport for cheaper accommodations, then taking day trips to Koror
- 6.Book diving packages in advance online — walk-in rates are typically 15-20% higher than pre-booked prices
Travel Tips
- •Pack reef-safe sunscreen only — regular sunscreen is banned to protect coral reefs
- •Bring a waterproof phone case — you'll want photos of jellyfish and underwater caves
- •Pack light, quick-dry clothing — humidity is intense and laundry services are expensive
- •Download offline maps before arriving — cell service is spotty outside main towns
- •Respect local customs by covering up when visiting villages — tank tops and shorts are fine for diving areas only
- •Book internal flights early if visiting outer islands — Palau has limited inter-island transport options
Frequently Asked Questions
US citizens get a free 30-day visa on arrival. Most other nationalities receive 30-day tourist visas for $50. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date.