Beyond the Dive

As famous as it is credited to its diving, Palau is not limited to just its glorious blue waters. The destination also offers a myriad of activities. Embark on a journey through the lush jungles and hidden caves, discover the WWII sites, and marvel at waterfalls surrounded by endemic plants and fauna. Feel the warmth of Palau's people, who have embraced and preserved the island's natural resources, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit!

Approximately 75% of Palau is covered in native forest and mangroves that are home to various endemic plants and faunas. Over a 100 plant species and birds have been recorded to which at least one third of these species are endemic to the island. Hidden away in the lush tropical jungle and forests lie obscured waterfalls that presides magically over their respective natural domain.

The friendliness of Palau’s people is unabashedly disarming, but it is their immense esteem for the islands’ natural resources –a respect anchored in steep tradition- that has yielded broad conservation of natures’ gifts.
Here are some fun activites to revel in while in this remote corner of the world!

Palau was made for kayaking, where paddlers can make their way into any one of hundreds of deserted bays and lagoons with perfectly unspoiled scenery, impeccable preserved reefs and coves, and only the swirling sound of the paddles breaking through the turquoise surface. Palau is probably the best place in the world for nature-loving kayakers to take day trips or excursions of several days.

The same serenity of nature’s pure embrace, through protected mangrove forests, is a twisting labyrinth of life set on a mirrored sheet of water. High in the tops of the canopies, fruit bats sleep. Channels take you to deltas of white sand set on top of the rich mangrove mud.
You will also find land crabs, monitor lizards, and the amazing amphibious mudskipper fish.

You can kayak in Koror, Airai, and pretty much all over Palau. Immerse yourself in an epic adventure and explore Palau's stunning natural beauty by kayak! With a knowledgeable local guide, you'll be able to discover the best sites, while learning about the history, culture, and science of the area. Paddling slowly and steadily, you'll be able to observe and appreciate the natural beauty around you!

Are you looking for a thrilling outdoor adventure? Combining the best of both worlds, a camping expedition in Palau's Rock Islands Southern Lagoon offers an incredible experience like no other. Here, you'll have the chance to explore one of the most diverse, complex, and breathtakingly beautiful places on earth. With the help of a tour operator, you'll learn about tide schedules, the best spots to camp, kayak and snorkel, and discover all the beauty and history this area has to offer. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create lifelong memories and make a connection with nature!

Set sail on a traditional canoe! “Sailing on a traditional canoe in this modern day sometimes feels like a full on time machine bringing us back to the days when our ancestors traversed the wild oceans”, says local guide, Mac Sasao. You won’t find anything like this anywhere else in the world!

For Kayaking, Camping, or Traditional Sailing, you can book your tour through Paddling Palau

You can book your tour through Smile Air or Pacific Mission Aviation

Completed only in this millennium, Palau’s Compact Road encompasses Babeldaob Island, opening up opportunities to visit sites of cultural/historic importance, such as the Badrulchau (Stone Monoliths), Japanese lighthouse, stone paths, stone faces and stone platforms. Just one hour south near Koror to Ngarchelong in the north, the highway runs through forest and savannah. One exciting feature of the highway is the experience of both the east and west coasts of Babeldaob with stops at markets for local food and refreshments.

For those who want to get off their feet for exploration, Palau offers a jungle river boat cruise, where soft adventurers will cruise along the calm river to an ancient Palauan village and historical site. Along the way, discover the abundance of beautiful flora and fauna of Palau, spot the birds and even catch glimpses of the crocodiles. This adventure is most suitable for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts and an excellent opportunity for photographers to capture the wildlife along the river where the mangroves are nature’s nursery.

Opened in 2006, Palau’s capital buildings are in Melekeok State in an area locally known as Ngerulmud. Only a short distance from the main highway, the hilltop location offers panoramic views of the eastern coastline.

Drive around with a rental or book a tour with a local guide or tour operator. You can tailor your itinerary suited for what you are looking for whether it would be WWII history or observing endemic species and more.

Located in Ngarchelong, Palau’s northernmost state of Babeldaob, you can walk through this ancient site containing the famous stone monoliths and plaza of carved faces in a savanna area surrounded by terraces. Found no-where else in Palau, the site has been dated as far back as A.D. 161.

The pillars are the remains of what could have been the largest meeting house ever built in Palau. The oral history stated that the structure was made entirely of stone by the gods.

Take a tour of our traditional meeting houses then visit Badrulchau to learn more about our cultural heritage.

Hop in a car and head over to the Ngardmau Waterfall. It is considered to be the tallest
waterfall that can be found on the main island of Babeldaob. The trail to the waterfall may take
20-30min to get to. At the base of the falls, take a dip in its natural swimming pools.

The Ngermeskang Bird Sanctuary, located in Ngeremlengui state, is a public bird sanctuary treasured by visitors as a place of beauty and quiet in rural environment, supporting a diversity of resident and migrating birds in a natural and undeveloped setting while providing environmental education opportunities to abroad audience. If you crave a blend of relaxation and adventure, the Ngermeskang Bird Sanctuary is a fantastic activity for those who cherish the beauty of the natural world.

Hiking
6am to 5pm
Monday to Sunday

Bird Watching
6am to 9am; 3pm to 5pm
Monday to Sunday

Kayaking
6am to 4pm
Monday to Sunday

To book your tour please email [email protected]

Established in 2001 as a marine education tool along with the Palau International Coral Reef Center. This research center features ocean, mangrove and aquarium exhibits, a gift shop, conference and special event rentals, research facilities, education programs, apartments for visiting researchers and research boats. Palau Aquarium has several tanks ighlighting unique marine ecosystems found in Palau. It’s a fun educational way for both kids and adults to have a deeper understanding about Palau’s marine ecosystems and conservation initiatives before taking off on your snorkeling or diving adventures.

For more information please visit the Palau Aquarium website.

Experience the tranquil beauty of Ngaraard's Kuabes Beach Park! Soak up the sun and the gentle ocean breeze while you enjoy the perfect beach picnic with your family. Take a dip in the sea or just relax and appreciate nature's splendor. Pack your beach towels and swimwear and let the island paradise of Kuabes Beach Park create lasting memories for you and your family!

As a long-time ranger and conservationist in the island state of Kayangel, Lazarus Meyar has taken on a remarkable feat. He has converted his beach into a place of both art and conservation, with the collection of slippers that have washed ashore from neighboring countries, serving as a reminder of the devastating effects of marine debris. His remarkable efforts have been acknowledged by the Palau International Coral Reef Center, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to the conservation and management of Kayangel's precious marine resources, his support of ecotourism and for inspiring everyone that even a single community member can make a difference. When in Kayangel, go meet Lazarus and visit his Slippers Beach.

Located in the Koror State Solid Waste Management building, the center is a creative hub where glassware and ornaments are crafted from recycled glass found in Palau. Not only will you find unique gifts to take home, but you can also meet the amazing local artists who design them. Plus, the center offers glass blowing classes Monday-Friday, so you can learn a new skill and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir! Support eco-friendly initiatives and visit the Belau Eco Glass Center today!

Chase the sunset in Pristine Paradise. The fiery oranges, deep purples, and soft pinks are a breathtaking sight to behold. As you watch the sun disappear into the distance, you’ll feel a sense of peace and wonder wash over you. The experience of chasing the sunset is not just a visual feast, but a moment of tranquility and reflection that will stay with you for a lifetime. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness one of nature’s most captivating displays however you want it- on a beach, in the water, or at a bar or restaurant during happy hour.

Stargazing in Palau is an experience that cannot be missed. As you look up at the night sky, you’ll be amazed by the infinite beauty of the universe. The stars that twinkle above us are a reminder of the vastness of space and our place in it. The peace and tranquility of the dark night sky will calm your mind and soothe your soul. The wonders of stargazing are not limited to the stars alone, as you may also witness shooting stars, meteor showers, and other celestial events.

The experience of stargazing is one that will stay with you forever, and the memories will be etched into your mind for a lifetime. So, take a moment to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the night sky in Palau.