A first timer’s travel guide to Palau

A tightly knit archipelago made of up to 340 islands, Palau is the westernmost nation in the Micronesia region of the Pacific Ocean.

Known worldwide by the dive community as one of the top dive destinations, there’s more that just underwater havens to uncover in this culturally rich destination.

Visitors to the pristine paradise are required to embrace the Palau Pledge, a world-first tourist entry policy dedicated to protecting the environment, to safeguard its ecosystems for future generations. The agreement was penned in 2019 by the Paulaun children asking visitors to “tread lightly, act kindly and explore mindfully” throughout their stay.

Koror, the most populated isle, is the starting point to explore the region with the nation’s main airport a handy 6 hour flight from Brisbane Airport. From here, visitors can connect to a myriad of activities from journeys to turquoise lagoons, snorkelling with abundant marine life, marvelling at misty waterfalls surrounded by lush jungles, visiting WWII sites and experiencing warm Palaun hospitality, crafts and traditions.

Connect with an underwater wonderland

No first-timers guide would be complete without the obvious attraction of Palau: the archipelago’s oceanic realm which is home to more than 500 coral species, 17 thriving species of shark (thanks to the world’s first shark sanctuary) and at least 1,300 species of reef fish.

Divers flock to the biodiversity hotspot as the reef fish are more abundant than neighbouring Micronesian islands, and favourites such as the napoleon wrasse and bumphead parrot fish are protected species here.

The Rock Islands, a collection of 400 forested limestone islands, are a highlight for divers and snorkellers as the surrounding iridescent waters showcase 385 types of coral and 13 shark and manta ray species.

There are also 52 UNESCO World Heritage-Listed marine lakes – seawater bodies separated from the ocean by land borders – scattered across the islands.

Jellyfish Lake, as it is aptly named, is one other must-do activity where visitors can drift alongside thousands of bobbing stingless jellyfish.

If relaxing in a naturally occurring day spa is more your speed, bathing in the velvety soft sediment-rich waters of Milky Way lagoon is a proven way to rejuvenate skin and provide therapeutic benefits.

History aficionados can explore WWII relics of battle including Japanese seaplanes wrecked in the oceans below. As time passes, the natural environment is slowly reclaiming the manmade objects and these days they are a kaleidoscope of colour and marine life.

Visibility is good and delightfully warm averaging 28 degrees Celsius year-round. Palau's experienced dive guides know what to find and where, with world-class dive tours ranging from day trips to week-long yacht charters to discover more untouched sites.

Connect with people and culture

Palau is home to 18,000 people who live, breathe and embody the spirit of the islands.

From living in harmony with nature, to preserving cultural values and traditions passed on through generations, to the warm and welcoming customs of modern day Palauns, this is a destination that is as gentle as it is illuminating.

Immerse yourself in the history of Palau on a guided tour to a traditional Palauan village. You’ll have the opportunity to visit a Bai, a vibrantly painted traditional chief’s meeting house, taste farm-to-table local cuisine and bring Palaun folklore to life through stories told by the locals.

Learn centuries-old carving skills in an immersive class at the Tebang Woodcarving Shop, or for a sustainable souvenir, the Belau Eco Glass Centre turns discarded glass bottles into conservations-focused fine crafts.

If you’re after a lively after dark cultural experience, hit up the 680 Night Market which is jam packed with local food stalls, traditional dance performance and weaving and carving demonstrations. This is held at least twice a month at the Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge.

Connect with adventure above the waves

Beyond the dive, there’s a world of adventure to be had in the open air. Take a road trip through lush jungles to an awe-inspiring waterfall, set sail on a traditional canoe or head skyward to see the vibrant green islands and azure blue oceans from a bird’s eye perspective.

From the main town of Koror, self-drive or book a tour guide to venture inland on Palau’s Compact Road which encompasses the island. You can tailor your itinerary to suit your interests whether it would be WWII history or observing endemic species.

Be sure to stop in at cultural and historical sites along the way including the stone monoliths, ancient basalt pillars that have stood for centuries.

Just off the highway is a short trek to one of Palau’s most impressive sites, Ngardmau Waterfall. This natural wonder stands at 217 meters high and is surrounded by lush rainforest and rockpools. It’s a short, steep, 20-minute walk to the site and the journey is well worth the reward.

Then it’s time to make like Moana aboard a traditional Micronesian sailboat crafted from hard wood with ropes made from coconut fibre. Master navigators from Paddling Palau operate tours from Koror for solo or two passengers only, allowing for friendly chats, cultural insights and hands-on demonstrations.

And finally, for a perspective that really shows off Palau’s island maze, a scenic flight will leave you in absolute awe. Soaring 500 meters above, you’ll witness tropical islands of all sizes, turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches, coral reefs and sandbars. For an added rush (and unobstructed photos), opt for a door-off flight.