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Situated in the western Pacific Ocean, Palau serves as an ideal destination for people who enjoy natural beauty alongside those who seek adventure and cultural experiences. The best things to do on the Palau Island caters to avid divers while also appealing to history enthusiasts and those seeking peaceful relaxation.The island nation presents stunning pristine beaches alongside vibrant coral reefs and distinctive historical locations. Each part of this island has its own narrative which ranges from the enchanting Jellyfish Lake to the historic Badrulchau Stone Monoliths.
Top 15 Things To Do On The Palau Island
From swimming with jellyfish at Jellyfish Lake to exploring the Rock Islands while kayaking, here is your list of exciting things to do on the Palau Island:
1. Swim With Stingless Jellyfish At Jellyfish Lake
Photo: Lukas / Wikimedia Commons
Visitors to Jellyfish Lake in Palau can experience a surreal swim among thousands of harmless golden jellyfish which makes this location its most iconic attraction. Jellyfish Lake on Eil Malk Island houses jellyfish species that evolved without stinging cells which creates a magical and safe swimming experience for visitors. An abundance of lush green vegetation surrounds the lake and enhances its mystical charm.
Location: Eil Malk Island, Rock Islands, Palau
Top Highlights: Swimming with harmless jellyfish, crystal-clear turquoise water, unique marine experience
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2. Explore The Rock Islands By Kayak
Photo: LuxTonnerre / Wikimedia Commons
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rock Islands are limestone islets abundant with tropical vegetation. Kayaking is the optimal method to discover the hidden coves, marine lakes, and secluded beaches of these islands. Paddling through the waters reveals breathtaking rock structures along with sea caves and diverse sea creatures below the turquoise surface. Kayaking through these untouched islands lets you experience their raw beauty in complete tranquility.
Location: Between Koror and Peleliu, Palau
Top Highlights: Kayaking through limestone islands, hidden lagoons, snorkeling spots, scenic views
3. Dive Into The Depths Of The Blue Corner
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here / Image For Representation Only
Many regard Palau among the top diving destinations globally and Blue Corner demonstrates exactly why this reputation exists. The underwater plateau hosts a diverse array of marine life such as sharks and manta rays in addition to barracudas and colorful coral formations. The strong currents of Blue Corner recommend it for expert divers while offering an extraordinary underwater display. The primary attraction for divers at Blue Corner is the “hook-in” experience which allows them to plant reef hooks for stability as they watch marine life move through the currents.
Location: Off the coast of Ngemelis Island, Palau
Top Highlights: World-class drift diving, abundant sharks and manta rays, vibrant coral reefs
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4. Visit The Badrulchau Stone Monoliths
Photo: Abasaa / Wikimedia Commons
The Badrulchau Stone Monoliths represent one of Palau’s most intriguing archaeological locations and a must-see among places to visit on Palau Island. Massive basalt stones at this ancient site are organized into formations that suggest they belonged to some prehistoric construction. The carved, mysterious faces on some stones increase their mysterious appeal. According to historians, the site dates back more than a thousand years, but researchers still cannot determine its original function, making it one of the most enigmatic destinations in Palau.
Location: Ngarchelong State, northern Palau
Top Highlights: Ancient stone carvings, cultural heritage, panoramic island views
5. Snorkel At The Milky Way Lagoon
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Palau features the Milky Way Lagoon as an exclusive attraction, making it a highlight when asking What is Palau mostly known for? This unique lagoon is famous for its natural white limestone mud, which tourists use to create a spa-like experience by applying the mineral-rich mud to their skin and then rinsing off in the warm turquoise waters. The lagoon also offers perfect snorkeling conditions, showcasing colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life. Beginners find the calm, shallow waters ideal for their activities. Many boat tours include a stop at the Milky Way Lagoon, allowing visitors to enjoy both relaxation and adventure during a single visit.
Location: Rock Islands, Palau
Top Highlights: Bioluminescent plankton glow, colorful coral reefs, night snorkeling adventure
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6. Take A Scenic Flight Over The Seventy Islands
Photo: Luka Peternel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Experience Palau’s breathtaking seascape with a scenic flight tour above the Seventy Islands, one of the most stunning sights around Palau Island. While visitors cannot enter these protected islands, aerial views reveal their unmatched beauty. Passengers will witness panoramic views of Palau’s turquoise waters alongside vibrant coral reefs and dense jungle-covered islands during the flight. The complex network of water channels and pristine beaches creates a breathtaking pattern visible only from above, showcasing the natural wonder of Palau Island.
Location: South of Koror, Palau
Top Highlights: Aerial views of the Rock Islands, turquoise waters, breathtaking island formations
7. Try Local Delicacies At The Palau Night Market
Photo: kelvin balingit / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Visitors can explore Palau’s food culture to the fullest through the offerings at the Palau Night Market. The Koror marketplace serves traditional Palauan cuisine which includes taro dumplings and grilled fish as well as coconut desserts and the notorious fruit bat soup. The market serves as a cultural centre where travellers can enjoy live music performances alongside traditional dances and explore local handmade crafts. Visit the night market to taste exotic flavours or to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Location: Koror, Palau
Top Highlights: Fresh seafood, traditional Palauan dishes, lively local atmosphere
Suggested Read: Food In Philippines
8. Discover WWII History At Peleliu Island
Photo: Cpl. Juan D. Alfonso / Wikimedia Commons
Peleliu Island serves as an invaluable historical site for World War II enthusiasts. The island was the location of one of the most intense fights between American and Japanese soldiers during 1944. War remnants remain well-preserved on the island where visitors can view rusting tanks and bombed bunkers alongside caves that served as wartime shelters. The Peleliu War Museum reveals historical insights through its display of battle artefacts, photographs and personal battle accounts.
Location: Peleliu Island, Palau
Top Highlights: Historic battle sites, war memorials, preserved artifacts
9. Hike To Ngardmau Waterfall
Photo: Jonatan Pie / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Babeldaob Island hosts the tallest waterfall in Palau which also happens to be the most spectacular one. The journey to the waterfall leads through dense rainforests beside a beautiful river alongside ancient stone walkways providing an authentic natural adventure. The hike demands minimal effort yet presents slippery sections which makes sturdy footwear a suggested precaution. At the falls visitors can choose between swimming in the refreshing cold water or appreciating the peaceful environment.
Location: Babeldaob Island, Palau
Top Highlights: Scenic jungle trek, refreshing waterfall, natural swimming pools
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10. Experience Traditional Culture At A Bai
Photo: Matt Kieffer / Wikimedia Commons
The Bai represents a traditional Palauan meeting house with significant cultural value. Village leaders and chiefs used these structures throughout history for essential gatherings and making important decisions. Palauan folklore and traditions emerge from the symbolic carvings and paintings that decorate these detailed structures. A visit to a Bai provides educational exposure to Palau’s social structures and ancient practices as well as the significance of storytelling throughout its history.
Location: Airai State, Babeldaob Island, Palau
Top Highlights: Palauan meeting house, cultural storytelling, traditional dances, and crafts
11. Visit Dolphin Pacific
Photo: Efraimstochter / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Visit Dolphin Pacific, one of the most engaging marine attractions and a top highlight among the many things to see in Palau Island. This dolphin interaction facility offers educational experiences focused on marine life conservation. Guests can observe dolphins up close, learn about their behavior, and even participate in interactive sessions in a responsible, non-captive environment. Surrounded by scenic ocean views, Dolphin Pacific provides a memorable opportunity to connect with marine wildlife while supporting ethical tourism in the beautiful waters of Palau.
Location: Near Airai, between Koror and Peleliu, Palau
Top Highlights: Dolphin encounters, educational marine shows, interactive experiences
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12. Visit The Palau International Coral Reef Center
Photo: agkaimal / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Visit the Palau International Coral Reef Center, the country’s premier marine research and education facility. Located in Koror, the center offers interactive exhibits, vibrant aquarium displays, and engaging information on coral reefs, marine biodiversity, and conservation efforts. Visitors can explore how Palau protects its fragile ecosystems while learning about ongoing scientific research. It’s a great stop for families, students, and anyone interested in the ocean. This center connects guests with Palau’s rich marine life and inspires awareness of its environmental importance and sustainability goals.
Location: Koror, Palau
Top Highlights: Coral reef research exhibits, marine conservation education, interactive displays
13. Take A Sunset Cruise Around The Rock Islands
Photo: CHK46 / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re looking for what to do in Palau Island that combines relaxation with stunning scenery, a sunset cruise around the Rock Islands is a perfect choice. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into shades of orange and pink, reflecting off the calm turquoise waters. The cruise glides past lush limestone islands and secluded beaches, often with chances to spot dolphins or seabirds. It’s a peaceful, scenic experience ideal for couples, photographers, or anyone seeking Palau’s natural beauty.
Location: Rock Islands, between Koror and Peleliu, Palau
Top Highlights: Stunning sunset views, calm waters, dolphin sightings, and island panoramas
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14. Paddleboarding In Nikko Bay
Photo: iulianscutelnicuph / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Paddleboarding in Nikko Bay offers a peaceful and scenic way to explore Palau’s calm, crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by lush limestone cliffs and hidden coral gardens, this sheltered bay is ideal for beginners and nature lovers alike. It’s one of the best low-impact activities for discovering marine life without heavy gear. If you’re wondering is Palau Island expensive, paddleboarding is a relatively affordable way to enjoy the islands’ beauty while getting a quiet, personal look at one of Palau’s most serene spots.
Location: Nikko Bay, Rock Islands, between Koror and Peleliu, Palau
Top Highlights: Calm waters, coral gardens beneath, peaceful nature setting
15. Explore The Mesekelat Waterfall
Photo: Barb Canale / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hidden within the lush jungles of Babeldaob, exploring the Mesekelat Waterfall is one of the best things to do in Palau Island for nature enthusiasts. The short hike to the falls takes you through dense tropical vegetation, offering a peaceful escape into the island’s wild side. At the end of the trail, you’re rewarded with a scenic cascade and a refreshing natural pool perfect for a swim or photo stop. This lesser-known gem combines adventure, tranquility, and Palau’s raw natural beauty in one unforgettable experience.
Location: Ngardmau, Babeldaob Island, Palau
Top Highlights: Jungle hike, natural pools, scenic waterfall views, birdwatching
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Palau Island offers a paradise of adventure and tranquility, from diving in its pristine waters to exploring lush jungles and unique cultural sites. Whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports, rich marine biodiversity, or serene island escapes, things to do on the Palau Island cater to every traveler. A visit here guarantees unforgettable memories, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and explorers alike. So plan your Palau adventure with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Luka Peternel / Wikimedia Commons
