scattered everywhere Oceanic the distant western Pacific, Palau It is an archipelago of more than 300 jungle islands, where life is centered around the ocean. it is UNESCO List The Rock Islands are a labyrinth of limestone outcrops, hidden emerald lagoons, and mangrove channels that can be slowly explored by kayak, snorkel, and boat. Proper Robinson Crusoe stuff.
But what really sets Palau apart is what’s beneath the surface. On the legendary steep slopes of N’Djemelis Island (often referred to as the “Underwater Serengeti”), you’ll sail through exciting blue currents past reef sharks, sea turtles, kaleidoscopic corals and swirling schools of fish.
Add to this ample conservation opportunities, unique natural wonders, and the chance to dive underwater with majestic manta rays, and you have a completely unique destination that blends bucket-list adventure with true environmental stewardship. So without further ado, here’s an overview of the best things to do in Palau:
Glide with golden jellyfish
Floating in a surreal jellyfish lake is one of the rare experiences unique to Palau. Isolated from the Pacific Ocean thousands of years ago, this place is now home to clouds of stingless golden jellyfish, which pulse gently in the water and move with the sunlight. Snorkel slowly and you’ll find yourself suspended in a quiet, sun-dappled world unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Raft past sharks, turtles, and more
Known as the “Underwater Serengeti,” the steep slopes of Njemelis Island are legendary and showcase Palau at its wildest. Strong, clear water sweeps you along vertical coral walls where gray reef sharks and rays cruise, sea turtles glide, and huge schools of snappers and barracuda flash in formation in the deep blue. Whether you’re snorkeling in the shallows or diving into the deeper depths (with a scuba attached, of course), it’s exciting, relaxing and full of life.
Planting giants on the reef
On the uninhabited Wulong Island, conservation becomes practical. After snorkeling under the coral-covered Oolong Arches, help release farmed baby giant clams onto the reef to restore native populations. These giant shellfish, which can grow to 1.4 meters (more than 4 feet) and weigh 250 kilograms (550 pounds), filter water and create habitat for other species, so growing them is more than symbolic. It’s a hands-on way to support Palau’s strictly protected marine protected areas.
Take ocean conservation seriously
Continuing with the conservation theme, a visit to the Coral Reef Research Foundation puts science in the spotlight. Founded in 1991, CRRF monitors coral reef health, studies climate impacts, and even studies medicinal compounds in marine invertebrates such as snails and tubeworms. Meetings with resident researchers add context to every snorkel – and this is a country that protects its waters with data and passion. Seeing the practical side of conservation firsthand will make you feel part of Palau’s ongoing efforts to protect its marine treasures.
Swim with majestic manta rays
The German Channel – a man-made channel through a coral reef – is solid territory for manta rays. Nutrient-rich currents draw filter-feeding fish to cleaning stations, where manta rays slowly circle and wrasse go to work clearing parasites from these giant deep-sea beasts. Hover at just the right distance to watch their massive winged silhouettes glide across the open water. It’s calming, humbling, and completely mesmerizing. Here, seeing multiple manta rays on a single dive or snorkel is common and always awe-inspiring.
Learn more about the history of World War II shipwrecks
Beneath Palau’s tranquil lagoon lies a haunting relic of World War II – a true underwater museum. A Japanese Zero fighter plane, sunken ships and scattered artifacts rest in the clear, shallow water, now covered in colorful coral and patrolled by reef fish, moray eels, starfish and more. Snorkeling or diving at these sites is both a history lesson and an ocean adventure—a vivid reminder of how nature will forever recover and renew.
Soaking in the mud of the Milky Way
In a secluded lagoon aptly called “The Milky Way,” boats drop anchor on turquoise waters concealed by fine white limestone mud. Scoop it up, slather it on, let it dry in the hot sun, then rinse it off in the shallows. Spa treatments are as much a goofy experience as they are a relaxing contrast to the intense reef activities. The mineral-rich, healing mud leaves skin soft, soothed, and radiant—an experience that’s unique to Palau itself.
Immerse yourself in the traditional culture of Airai Bai
Learn about Palau’s past at the sacred Airai Bai, the country’s oldest surviving men’s gathering place. More than a century old, the 21-meter-long (69-foot) timber-framed building rises steeply on a 12-meter (39-foot) peak and is built on a stone platform using local wood and thatch. Inside and out, painted panels depict legendary scenes and symbolic motifs – including the “delerrok,” the money bird that is said to bring good luck. Visit a local community group where you’ll experience traditional dancing and singing and learn that it’s the senior women who actually choose the chiefs here, quietly holding the real power.
Hike to Ngardmau Falls
On Palau’s largest island, Barberdaob, a jungle trail leads to the roaring Ngardmau Falls, Micronesia’s tallest waterfall at 30 meters (100 feet). The trail takes you through dense forest and across creeks before revealing a curtain of water and tumbling into a cooling pool – the perfect post-hike reward. It’s a refreshing change from the ocean and a reminder that Palau’s wild side doesn’t just exist underwater.
Paddling through wild mangroves
Kayaking into Palau’s largest Long Lake or Lisong Bay, your mood changes instantly. Mangrove roots tangle in the shallows, juvenile fish and baby reef sharks flicker beneath the surface, and endemic birds chirp from the canopy. These calm nurseries support the health of the outer reefs—exploring them quietly with a paddle reveals Palau at its most tranquil. Far away from it all, secluded, it feels like you’re gliding through a hidden maze for the first time, discovering the island’s secret nooks and crannies that no one has explored before. Well, sure, there’s the occasional monitor lizard or land crab.
Find your unique feathered friend
Listen up, twitchers! Ngermeskang Bird Sanctuary in Ngeremlengui is a secluded paradise for bird lovers and anyone who longs to quietly immerse themselves in nature. Paddling, hiking, or strolling through undeveloped forests and swamps, you might spot some of Palau’s endemic treasures—from the striking Micronesian emperor pigeon and the shy Palau ground dove to the vibrant Palau kingfisher and morningbird, tutau. The country is home to 12 species found nowhere else in the world – so keep an eye on the canopy.
Listen to the elders tell the story of Palau
Time ashore here only adds to the depth of the adventure. In Koror, explore the Belau National Museum and the Epison Museum to learn about Palau’s ancient clan system, traditional governance and Moana’s maritime heritage, before heading to the Rock Islands. Wander the ruins of Wulong Ancient Village and learn how the community here once thrived. Palau’s conservation ethic is not new—it is rooted in generations of stewardship, passed down through stories, customs, and practices.
Slow down in Koror
Koror may be the gateway to many adventures in the country, but it’s worth spending a day or two here. Sip ice-cold Red Rooster beer (brewed only in Palau using pure tropical rainwater), enjoy fresh tuna or taro at a beachfront restaurant with panoramic views, or just relax by the lagoon and watch the sun set and the moon rise. After a few days of salt and sunshine, it’s the perfect place to rejuvenate, rejuvenate and enjoy the gentle pace of island life before heading back to the sea.
Experience the Highlights of Palau: Featured: Palau’s rocky islands and underwater Serengeti