Imagine a dive destination with coral gardens that bloom in a kaleidoscope of colors, emerald islands that rise up from blue waters and an ancient culture that honors a sacred past. This is Palau, an archipelago in the heart of the Pacific Ocean where vibrant marine ecosystems and rich traditions intertwine, creating a place unlike any other in the world.
Courtesy of PT HirschfieldDiver at the Blue Corner
Every experience tells a story about this pristine paradise. Underwater, many renowned dive sites lie within Southern Rock Islands Lagoon, which in 2012 was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to Palau’s commitment to sustainable practices and protected waters. The sites here are part of a tapestry of coral gardens and deep walls that teem with colorful marine life. The currents at sites such as Blue Corner and Ulong Channel draw in a thrilling procession of reef sharks plus barracuda, snappers, triggerfish and jacks. You can also experience the magical manta ray cleaning stations of German Channel, the dramatic drop-off at Ngemelis Wall and the stunning underwater caves of Chandelier Cave, with impressive formations that are illuminated in rays of sunlight that filter through the cave system’s natural “window” openings. Sunlight also streams through the site known as Blue Holes, where the walls are decorated with colorful corals and are home to brightly colored nudibranchs. When the tide is incoming at Siaes Corner, you’ll find schools of jacks, barracuda and gray reef sharks as well as smaller tropicals, such as pyramid butterflyfish, Moorish idols and yellowtail fusiliers.
Palau Pacific ResortA room at Palau Pacific Resort.
Wreck enthusiasts will appreciate that Palau’s waters also contain numerous wrecks from World War II, such as the Iro Maru near Koror, which was sunk in Malakal Harbour during World War II by the U.S. Navy. The small island of Peleliu was also the site of one of the war’s biggest battles. Today, schooling barracuda, big sharks and giant trevally are common at sites here, including the sunken ships Amatsu Maru and the Jake seaplane. The Southern Rock Islands Lagoon is a natural wonderland that can be explored by kayak. As you paddle through these calm waters, you’ll experience complete serenity. The towering limestone walls of Nikko Bay, for example, create a sanctuary for some of the most exquisite reefs in the world and their breathtaking diversity of marine life. You’ll be mesmerized by the trees, ferns and fragrant flowers found here, as well as the marine caves, tunnels and archways that make this experience truly memorable. This is a place where the ocean’s bounty is treasured and its heritage is cherished. Its jade islets, brilliant coral gardens and cultural sites are a testament to the efforts this country has made to protect its unspoiled beauty and cultural legacy.
Palau Pacific ResortVisitors can immerse themselves in Palau’s ancient heritage and join community- based nature tours of cultural and historical sites
Explore Further
Preserving Palau’s Past
Palau’s environmental initiatives and cultural practices showcase this island nation’s deep commitment to preserving its natural resources and heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in Palau’s ancient heritage and join community- based nature tours of cultural and historical sites, enjoy traditional cuisine and engage with artisans skilled in traditional practices, such as skirt weaving and wood carving. A guided tour of Airai, for example, takes you to the heart of the village, where the chief’s revered meeting house still stands and villagers host visitors for dinner and a dance performance.
2026 Readers Choice Awards
Palau earned 11 awards this year, including first place for Wall Diving and Health of Marine Environment.
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