Palau is magical. For such a tiny area of land, it packs a huge punch. You will be overwhelmed by Palau’s extraordinary array of natural wonders. It is made up of about 200 mostly pristine limestone and volcanic 
islands, covered in an emerald forest, and surrounded by a beautiful turquoise lagoon. So of course, diving is the number one activity here, with world class dive sites. Divers affirm that Palau has an exciting seascape, with fascinating wrecks and a stunning marine life, dubbed the underwater Serengeti. When the underwater wonders have finished working their magic on you, there are other adventure options. Kayaking, snorkeling and off-road driving are great, with the added appeal of fantastic settings. And for history buffs there are plenty of WWII relics scattered in the jungle, as well as a handful of well-organized museums in Koror, Palau’s largest town. Our Palau Travel Guide will give you all the information and tools to start planning your vacation to this wonderful place.
Palau Weather (When to Visit)
Being so close to the equator, Palau enjoys a steady warm climate all year round with an average temperature of 86°F. Dry season runs November to April with maximum temperatures of 90°F and lows of 81°F. Humidity is high all year round.
The high season in Palau is December – March. During this time hotels are going to be hard to find, and reserving your hotel early is essential. Hotel prices will be 50% higher than any other time of the year. The seas are calm and the weather is dry. This is the premium time for diving, so dive sites will be crowded. The shoulder season is April, July, August, October and November. During this time you will find great discounts on hotels and availability. The downside is that this when Palau see heavy rainfall. Winds whip up the waves and some dive sites are not accessible. An alternative to the high season is the low season during May, June and September. Hotel prices will be about 30% lower than in high season, and airfares will also be lower flying into Palau. There will be fewer travelers, so dive sites will not be crowded.
Spiaggia di Porto Faro
Spiaggia di Porto FaroSpiaggia di Porto Faro has white sands overlooking the famous archipelago of La Maddalena. Be amazed by stunning views, and crystal blue waters. The water provides excellent visibility for snorkeling, and the flora in these parts is renowned for making this worth the effort. Quiet and mostly unassuming, the beach may be a little busy on weekends, but for those who are flexible, this cove can prove the perfect escape from the more touristy beaches nearby.
Spiaggia Dell Isolotto
Spiaggia Dell IsolottoThe beauty of this beach is immediately obvious from the moment you set eyes on the white sands and crystal blue waters. The beach is ideal for swimming and snorkeling with its very calm water. This beach can be surprisingly quiet and an ideal spot to enjoy the sunset. Nearby you can also find a broad range of restaurants which serve authentic Sardinian dishes.
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Spiaggia La Sciumara
Spiaggia La SciumaraThis beach has fantastic views and clear waters and is located between the colorful village of Palau and Porto Rafael. La Sciumara is accompanied by a low seabed which makes swimming ideal while the nearby islands are easily reached by boat. Spiaggia La Sciumara is perfect for families with children and also provides wheelchair access. The beach also offers visitors a dinghy rental service and the beach is also suited to snorkeling with clear waters full of colorful marine life and flora.
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Long Beach Palau
Long Beach PalauThe sand here looks and feels like white velvet and the crystal-clear ocean provides excellent visibility. If you venture into the water, be prepared to see turtles, colorful fish and exotic coral. Adventure-lovers will be in paradise with the endless kayaking, boating and off-roading options this land provides. No matter what your perfect day near the water is, Long Beach Palau will fulfill all of your desires.
Spiaggia di Talmone
Spiaggia di TalmoneThis beach is located in Porto Talmone Cuncato. It is a cove of white limestone cliffs and the water incredibly transparent. It is a small protected bay shaped like a half moon surrounded by low vegetation and breathtaking views. The beach does not offer services.
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Best Palau Restaurants
Drop Off Bar & Grill $11 – 30
The Drop Off has a great selection of fish delivered daily from the harbour, including blue marlin, yellowfin tuna and red snapper. It’s also known for its knockout burgers, kebabs (skewers) and sashimi. The open-air terrace overlooking the marina is perfect for enjoying the cool, ocean breezes. Even if you aren’t dining, it’s a great place to pause for a drink. Telephone: 680 488 7505 Web: Drop Off Bar & Grill
Elilai Restaurant & Bar $31 – 60
Currently the best spot in the city for real gourmet cuisine, Elilai has achieved a fantastic reputation thanks to its painstakingly constructed menu featuring Palauan and Asian dishes with a contemporary twist. Start with fabulous local crustaceans – the ukaeb (Palauan land crab) is succulent – then dig into a mangrove clam risotto, grilled tuna, or pork ribs, all beautifully presented. There are vegetarian options, too. Telephone: 680 488 8866 Web: Elilai Restaurant & Bar
Katey’s Healing Garden $11 – 30
Delicious food, healthy ingredients, a serene setting and cracking views from the terrace – if you’re after an authentic Palauan experience, this place is hard to beat. The charismatic owner is committed to using traditional recipes based on local, organic produce. There’s also first-rate coffee and vitamin-packed fruit juices. Telephone: 680 488 2200 Web: Katey’s Healing Garden
Krämers Bar & Restaurant $11 – 30
This popular restaurant next to the ferry dock on Malakal Island is great, thanks to its breezy verandah with great bay views, eclectic menu and jovial atmosphere. Dishes on offer might include blackened sashimi, BBQ banana-wrapped fish, and pumpkin schnitzel (a delicious vegetarian dish). The bar here is a lively meet-and-greet zone and stays open until 2am. Telephone: 608 488 8448 Web: Krämers Bar & Restaurant
The Taj $11 – 30
One of the most reputable restaurants in town, the Taj serves authentic, richly flavoured korma, curry and tandoori dishes, all prepared with the best ingredients available. Tandoori chicken is brought to your table impaled on what looks like a short sword. A good selection of vegetarian options also grace the menu. Crisp, elegant and fresh food, served by lovely sari-clad staff. Telephone: 608 488 2227 Web: The Taj
Best Nightlife in the Galapagos Islands
Lounge Bar DonRo
They are located in front of the black beach, where you can enjoy a comfortable hammock, delicious cocktails, pool table, and see the most incredible sunsets. Web: Lounge Bar DonRo
EL Barquero
The perfect place to start the night with some beers and a good pool competition against the locals (it gets pretty serious). The music that the owner has chosen, is by far the best in ALL The Galapagos Islands. Visit them on TripAdvisor: El Barquero
Bar de Beto
Located on Isabela Island with great vibes connecting great people from all over the world. Visit their famous bottle tree that is made of stories from all around the world and add your own story to it! They also care about the environment which is why their tables are made from recycled wood, they use paper straws, and they refill your water bottles at Bar de Beto! – Great atmosphere, Nice people, Good Music, Endemic Drinks Visit them on TripAdvisor: Bar de Beto
La Discoteca De Wilfrido
The party at Wilfrido Karaoke is the best place to share a night singing, dancing and enjoying the best atmosphere. They have: Private Room Dance Floor, Giant Screens, Dj, and many more surprises. Visit them on TripAdvisor: La Discoteca De Wilfrido
Pink Iguana Bar
Pink Iguana Bar is a family-owned gem offering a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere. This beachfront retreat is perfect for relaxing, connecting with others, and soaking in the island’s natural beauty. The bar is also home to the Iguanaman Foundation, a conservation group dedicated to protecting the unique marine iguana population on the island. Unwind while supporting conservation efforts. Web: Pink Iguana Bar
Palau sounds absolutely unreal, especially with that “underwater Serengeti” description. The mix of world-class diving, WWII history, and jungle-covered limestone islands makes it feel like one of those rare destinations that still feels untouched. I also like how you explained the seasons so clearly, because weather and dive conditions really matter in a place like this. Kayaking through turquoise lagoons after a morning dive sounds like a dream itinerary. For someone who doesn’t dive, would snorkeling and topside adventures still make Palau worth the long trip?
Absolutely, Palau is still incredible even if you never put on scuba gear. The snorkeling here is among the best in the world, with crystal-clear lagoons, coral gardens, turtles, and vibrant tropical fish just below the surface. In addition, kayaking through the Rock Islands, exploring hidden beaches, visiting WWII relics, and touring Koror’s museums give you a full Palau travel experience beyond diving. Many travelers fall in love with Palau for its untouched nature, eco-adventures, and peaceful island atmosphere alone.
What an incredible guide to Palau! You’ve captured the mix of underwater magic, jungle history, and laid-back island charm so well. The way you describe the dive sites and the “underwater Serengeti” really paints a vivid picture of just how extraordinary Palau’s reefs are. I also love that you included activities beyond diving—kayaking, off-road adventures, and exploring WWII relics give travelers so many reasons to visit. The beach list is especially helpful, and the clarity of the water at places like Long Beach and Spiaggia di Talmone sounds unreal. This post makes Palau feel both adventurous and inviting, which is such a hard balance to strike!
Thank you so much! Palau truly is a destination that blends adventure, history, and pure natural beauty. The beaches and dive sites get a lot of attention, but those added experiences really round out the trip. I’m glad the guide helped bring that to life!
This is one of the most complete Palau overviews I’ve seen! The weather breakdown is incredibly useful, especially for divers trying to plan the perfect season. I love how you highlighted not just the beaches, but also the character of each one—from quiet coves with white limestone cliffs to family-friendly spots with shallow, clear water. The restaurant section is also fantastic; the mix of seafood, local dishes, and unique spots like Katey’s Healing Garden gives travelers plenty of options. Everything here makes Palau feel like a place where you can explore all day and unwind in great company at night. Beautifully done!
I really appreciate that! Palau has so much variety packed into such a small area, so I wanted to showcase every side of it. The food scene and seasonal differences can make a big difference in the experience. I’m glad the guide helped highlight that balance!
Palau sounds absolutely incredible — I love how you painted the picture of those emerald-covered islands and turquoise lagoons! It’s amazing that such a small place holds so much beauty, history, and adventure. The diving alone sounds unforgettable, but I’m also intrigued by the WWII relics and kayaking options you mentioned. It really seems like a perfect balance of nature, culture, and excitement. Have you had a chance to dive there yourself, or would you say it’s best suited for experienced divers?
Thank you so much! Palau truly is one of those destinations that feels otherworldly once you arrive. The diving is world-class, but what’s great is that there are sites for every level — from calm coral gardens perfect for beginners to deeper wreck dives for the more experienced. Even if you stay above the surface, kayaking through the Rock Islands and exploring the lagoons is unforgettable. Would you try diving there, or do you think you’d enjoy the beaches and nature more?
You’ve captured everything that makes it so special — from its world-class diving and emerald islands to the peaceful beaches and rich WWII history. I love how you balanced adventure ideas like kayaking and snorkeling with relaxing spots such as Long Beach Palau and Spiaggia La Sciumara. The restaurant list sounds amazing too — especially Drop Off Bar & Grill and Katey’s Healing Garden! I did notice the nightlife section seems to mention the Galapagos instead of Palau though — was that intentional, or are there a few Palau nightspots you’d recommend instead?
Thank you for catching that — you’re absolutely right! That section was mixed up, so it should highlight Palau’s own laid-back nightlife rather than the Galapagos. Palau isn’t a big party destination, but it does have a few great evening spots worth visiting. Kramer’s Bar & Restaurant is one of the most popular hangouts, perfect for cocktails and live music with a view of the bay. Drop Off Bar & Grill is another local favorite for sunset drinks overlooking the marina. For a relaxed vibe, The Red Rooster Café serves Palau’s own craft beer in a cozy, casual setting. Most evenings here are more about conversation, ocean breezes, and stargazing — the kind of atmosphere that perfectly fits Palau’s natural charm.
Wow, what an incredible guide to Palau! I can practically picture those emerald-covered islands surrounded by the turquoise lagoon — it sounds like a diver’s dream come true. I love how you highlighted not only the world-class dive spots but also the quieter adventures like kayaking and exploring WWII relics. And that restaurant list looks amazing — especially Elilai and The Taj! One thing I’m wondering though: for someone visiting Palau for the first time, would you recommend staying mainly in Koror for convenience, or splitting time between Koror and one of the outer islands for a more secluded experience?
Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed the Palau guide — it really is a destination that feels untouched and unforgettable. For a first-time visit, I recommend staying in Koror as your base. It’s the main hub for hotels, restaurants, and dive operators, which makes organizing excursions super easy. From there, you can take day trips to the Rock Islands, go diving at Blue Corner or Jellyfish Lake, and even enjoy kayaking or snorkeling right from town. If you’d like a quieter, more private experience, spending one or two nights at a resort on a nearby island like Carp Island or Peleliu can be a wonderful addition — it gives you that remote, castaway feeling without missing out on the convenience of Koror.
Palau sounds absolutely breathtaking — I had no idea such a small island nation could offer so much natural beauty and adventure! The mix of emerald forests, turquoise lagoons, and incredible dive sites makes it seem like a true paradise for nature lovers. I’d love to kayak through those limestone islands and then unwind at a spot like Elilai Restaurant for a sunset dinner. The diving sounds world-class too — especially with the shipwrecks and coral reefs you mentioned. For someone visiting for the first time, would you recommend staying mainly in Koror for convenience or venturing out to one of the smaller islands for a more secluded experience?
That’s such a great question! For a first visit to Palau, I’d recommend staying in Koror. It’s the main hub for accommodations, restaurants, and dive shops, making it easy to arrange excursions to the Rock Islands, dive sites, and snorkeling spots. You’ll also have access to great dining — like Elilai Restaurant or Krämers Bar & Restaurant — and can easily explore Palau’s cultural side through its museums and WWII relics. Once you’ve experienced Koror, you might consider spending a few nights on one of the outer islands for a quieter, more remote escape surrounded by untouched beauty. It’s the perfect way to enjoy both adventure and tranquility in one trip!
Thank you for such a beautiful post. I’m delighted with all the details you’ve included. I will bookmark your site for future reference. Thanks
You are so welcome and thanks for stopping by and reading my Palau Travel Guide.
Hey i really enjoyed this article, it was very informative. I would love to take a vacation to some of these places. I have never got to leave the states but i would love to and check out these nice places! Keep up the good work! You had lot of information to share!
Thanks so much Justin and thanks for visiting my Palau Travel Guide.
This all seems amazing and I am loving Palau! I had never heard of it, but when doing some research for my next travel destination, I came across your wonderful site! There are a lot of places that don’t get as much recognition as the big vacation spots, which seems to be the case for Palau. It looks like the perfect vacation spot!
No, you do not hear a lot about Palau, and most have not heard of it. You are right! It is the perfect vacation spot! I hope you can experience this wonderful destination. If you need any additional information, please let me know.
Palau really looks amazing! I have been reading and hearing so many wonderful things about this place that I wish I could visit it in the near future. We have our very own beautiful Boracay White Sand Beach here in the Philippines but I think Palau is nothing like it.
I am curious about the purple beach. I don’t know what’s with me and colored beaches, lol. I guess I am just used to the ordinary beaches in our place that whenever I hear something about a beach of extraordinary color, I become very interested. I’m not saying the purple beach is all that I find attractive in Palau. Ngatpang and Ngardmau Waterfalls are definitely a “must see.”
By the way, if I were to travel to Palau from Manila, Philippines, how long will the flight take? And do you think there’s a direct flight?
You live in a wonderful place Alice! I actually just did a review on Boracay 🙂 You also live fairly close to Palau, with just a 3 hour direct flight! I think you will find it a bit unique, yes especially with the purple beach 🙂 Thanks for visiting!
Palau sounds like a nice place to be right now, especially with the cold weather we have had here in New England. Understandable that this would be the beginning of the high season. I love the waterfalls there. I’ve never seen any like them. The hotels sound really nice there. How would you rate Palau with other small islands around there?
Oh, Palau is close to the top of my list. I love waterfalls, amazing beaches, the island life., etc. You get it all in Palau. Thanks for visiting beach travel destinations.
Very thorough website. You have it all covered. Wish I was a beach person. Was when I was younger. Love dipping my toes in the cool mountain springs. You have a lot of great comments. Your personality shows itself in the sight. I like how you are open to comments at the bottom of each page. Lots of useful information. Very informative.
Kirk
Thank you so much Kirk and glad you enjoyed your visit even though you are no long a beach person. I hope that I will always be a beach person….its just in my blood LOL. Thanks for stopping by and taking time to comment.
Palau travel guide is by far one of the most attractive articles I have read in a long time I really love this article it makes me want to go to Palau which is going to be a great place to visit. I really love this informative article. I will be looking into this as my next vacation the weather sounds wonderful. I’m making this website my travel destination headquarters.
Thank you for this very informative article
Great Quinn, I would also be glad you to help you with your travel planning. Please don’t hesitate to ask. Glad you enjoyed my Palau Travel Guide.
This sounds like a beautiful holiday destination!!! It would be interesting to go and see the WWII relics scattered in the jungle, that would be something I would enjoy, and the snorkelling of course!! The Ngardmau Waterfall looks amazing, that would be my first attraction to visit and I probably wouldn’t want to leave!! Thanks for sharing, Cheers!!!
You are very welcome Juvette! Yes, it is a beautiful destination Especially if you want relaxation, beauty, with some history with it. Thanks for visiting my Palau Travel Guide.
Hi Leahrae,
You mostly hear about the Bahamas and the Cayman Islands for beach destination but I’ve never thought about going to Palau… But why not? After reading your article, I think it could be an exciting option!
The Ngardmau Waterfalls (won’t even try to pronounce it) especially seem really beautiful and a wonderful destination for me to go visit in my next backpacking trip!
Cheers,
Miguel
Your are right, it is an exciting option! Once you start planning, let me know, as I would love to help. Thanks for stopping by!
WoW that’s really amazing destination for sure , very informative and every time I read one of your articles I learn something new. Your articles always provide new information about amazing places to visit. One question please: How do I get to Palau? I am adding this to my bucket list and might have to start planning. Thanks in advance
Thanks for visiting Aly and great question. If you are planning your Palau vacation you should fly to one of the five international gateways and then to Palau Roman Tmetuchl International Airport. The five gateways are Yap, Manilla, Taiwan, Seoul and Guam. It really depends where you are located, as to which of these cities you will fly into. Then you will fly into Palau Roman Tmetuchi International airport. Let me know if you have any other questions.
Hey Leahre! How are you doing? I really enjoyed reading this article as you’ve provided us with lots of information. Palau is kinda affordable for me so I’ll be adding it on my wishlist. I really enjoy scuba diving as I’ve done it previously in Maldives but I’m planning to do it again here as well. By the way, which is the nearest airport?
You do travel to some amazing places! How nice to go to the Maldives and Palau! The closest airport is Roman Tmetuchl International which takes you into Koror. Glad you enjoyed my Palau Travel Guide.
Palau looks like a cool place to visit.
If given the opportunity, I’d like to have a swim in one of the beautiful beaches and visit the Ngardmau waterfall, which looks like a mini-Niagara falls. For now, I can only enjoy the beaches locally in my hometown in the Philippines, which I know are comparable to those tourist destinations around the world.
Thanks for the exhaustive review.
Marita
You are very welcome Marita. And you are right, the beaches in the Philippines ARE comparable. I think that the Philippines has some of the most beautiful beaches, hands down. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave me some comments.
Oh my goodness! I would not mind a beach right now at all. It got cold the last few days and was around 30F! I have never heard of this location. Now I have yet another beach to dream about visiting. lol Thank you for all of the tips. I really love it!!
Most people have not heard of Palau, but yes, I think you would love it! Thanks for reading my Palau Travel Guide.
Really awesome post! Very detailed and helps me plan my next destination. Some of these places are well priced and I am definitely adding to my list.
Great Patrick, you won’t be disappointed. Please let me know if I can help in any way. Thanks for visiting beach travel destinations.
This place looks amazing. I love waterfalls too. I wouldn’t mind sitting under Ngardmau Waterfall for a couple of hours to zone out and relax. Thanks for the travel guide 🙂
You are welcome and yes, me too. Would be very relaxing to sit there for a while and just let the time slowly go by. Thanks for visiting my Palau Travel Guide.
I’m always drawn to a place by the cuisine more than anything else, what can I say, I’m a massive foodie, and Palau looks like it has some great offerings. Katey’s Healing Garden caught my eye specifically because of the organic produce, so I would be in my element there ha ha.
But food apart, it also looks like such a beautiful place… that waterfall, wow!And the scenery and beaches look gorgeous, I would love this place any time of year I reckon. This is a place for my parents too as they are literally obsessed with World War 2 – so great holiday destination for all my family.
It does have a little something for everyone Stefanie. A lot of history, and a lot of beautiful amazing places. Palau is a wonderful vacation destination for anyone. Thanks for stopping by 🙂
Very nice place to travel to for vacation or just visit for the heck of it. First thing I can say about this Island is that I have never heard of it before but it is really a exciting looking place to go. The waterfall is amazing and I would love to swim there. It seems like it would be a more secluded place with not many people or traffic I may be wrong but don’t think so. A really great destinatin to travel to.
You are right Fred, the waterfall is not going to have a lot of people or you won’t find a lot of traffic. Most go here for diving, one of the top 10 diving locations in the world. Thanks for reading my Palau Travel Guide!
Wow, this place looks beautiful. I hadn’t even heard of it, how embarrassing! I love to travel so next time it comes to booking I will definitely check this place out, it ticks all the boxes for me. Thanks for bringing this to my attention, it is definitely very important!!
Glad I found you a new and wonderful destination to start planning your vacation to 🙂 It is beautiful and it is a wonderful spot for a relaxing vacation! Thanks for stopping by Palau Travel Guide.