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Angaur, Belau - Things to Do in Angaur

Things to Do in Angaur

Angaur, Belau - Complete Travel Guide

Angaur, one of Palau's sixteen states, is a small limestone island located in the southern part of the archipelago, approximately 6 miles southwest of Peleliu. This tiny island, measuring just 3.2 square miles, offers visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Palauan life away from the more developed tourist areas. With a population of fewer than 120 people, Angaur provides an intimate and peaceful experience surrounded by pristine coral reefs and untouched natural beauty. The island is renowned for its phosphate mining history, which ceased in the 1950s, leaving behind fascinating industrial ruins that now serve as unique historical attractions. Angaur's beaches are spectacular, featuring powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The island's compact size makes it ideal for exploration on foot or bicycle, allowing visitors to discover hidden coves, ancient stone platforms, and the remnants of World War II fortifications that dot the landscape.

Top Things to Do in Angaur

Snorkeling and Diving at Angaur's Reefs

Explore the pristine coral reefs surrounding Angaur, which offer some of Palau's most untouched underwater ecosystems. The island's remote location means fewer divers visit these sites, providing excellent visibility and abundant marine life including reef sharks, sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish. The shallow reefs are perfect for snorkeling, while deeper sites offer world-class diving opportunities.

Booking Tip: Arrange diving through operators in Koror (45-60 minutes by boat) as there are no dive shops on Angaur itself. Expect to pay $80-120 for day trips including equipment. Best visibility occurs during dry season (November-April). Book at least 2-3 days in advance.

Historical Phosphate Mine Exploration

Discover the fascinating industrial heritage of Angaur by exploring the abandoned phosphate mining facilities that operated from the early 1900s to 1955. Rusted machinery, rail tracks, and processing buildings create an eerily beautiful landscape that tells the story of the island's economic past. The mining areas also offer panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and neighboring islands.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free and accessible year-round. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water as there's limited shade. Consider hiring a local guide for $20-30 to learn detailed history and access harder-to-find sites. Best visited in early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.

Beach Hopping and Swimming

Angaur boasts several stunning beaches, each with its own character and charm. The main beach near the village offers calm waters perfect for swimming, while more remote beaches provide complete solitude and pristine conditions. The island's small size allows visitors to easily walk between different beach areas and find their perfect spot for relaxation.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but bring your own snorkeling gear, shade, and refreshments as facilities are limited. Best beach conditions occur during calm weather (typically November-May). Consider renting a bicycle from locals for $10-15/day to easily reach different beaches.

Cultural Village Experience

Immerse yourself in authentic Palauan culture by visiting Angaur's small village and interacting with local residents. The community maintains traditional practices and offers visitors insights into island life, local crafts, and cultural traditions. This intimate experience provides a genuine connection with Palauan heritage that's increasingly rare in more touristy areas.

Booking Tip: Arrange village visits through accommodation or boat operators in advance. Small donations or gifts (school supplies, non-perishable foods) are appreciated but not required. Respect photography restrictions and always ask permission. Best experienced as part of a day trip from Koror.

World War II Site Exploration

Angaur played a significant role in World War II, and remnants of Japanese fortifications, bunkers, and defensive positions can still be found across the island. These historical sites offer sobering reminders of the Pacific Theater's impact on Palau while providing interesting exploration opportunities for history enthusiasts. Some sites offer excellent views and photo opportunities.

Booking Tip: Sites are accessible for free year-round, but bring sturdy footwear and be cautious around unstable structures. Local guides can provide historical context for $25-40 and help locate less obvious sites. Bring plenty of water and sun protection as most sites lack shade.

Getting There

Reaching Angaur requires flying into Palau International Airport in Koror, followed by a boat transfer. There are no regular scheduled flights to Angaur's small airstrip, so most visitors arrive by speedboat or charter boat from Koror, which takes approximately 45-60 minutes depending on sea conditions. Several boat operators offer day trips or can arrange private transfers, with costs ranging from $200-400 for round-trip transportation depending on group size. Some visitors combine Angaur with trips to nearby Peleliu to maximize the boat journey cost.

Getting Around

Angaur's compact size (just 3.2 square miles) makes it easily walkable, with most attractions accessible on foot within 30-45 minutes from the main village area. Local residents sometimes rent bicycles to visitors for around $10-15 per day, which is an excellent way to cover more ground efficiently. There are no car rental services, but the island's few vehicles are occasionally available for hire through local contacts. Most visitors find that walking combined with occasional bicycle use provides the best way to explore the island's beaches, historical sites, and natural areas at a leisurely pace.

Where to Stay

Koror (stay here and day-trip)
Local guesthouse arrangements
Camping with permission
Private homestays
Peleliu Island nearby
Boat-based accommodation

Food & Dining

Dining options on Angaur are extremely limited due to the island's small population and remote location. Most visitors should plan to bring food and drinks from Koror or arrange meals as part of their tour package. The local community occasionally prepares traditional Palauan meals for visitors when arranged in advance, offering dishes featuring fresh fish, taro, breadfruit, and coconut-based preparations. Some basic supplies might be available from village stores, but selection is minimal. Day-trippers typically bring packed lunches, while overnight visitors should coordinate meal arrangements with their accommodation or local contacts before arrival.

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Angaur is during Palau's dry season from November through April, when rainfall is minimal and sea conditions are generally calmer for boat transfers. During this period, temperatures range from 75-85°F with lower humidity and excellent visibility for underwater activities. The wet season (May-October) brings higher rainfall, rougher seas that can make boat transfers challenging or impossible, and increased humidity. However, the island is beautiful year-round, and the wet season offers lush vegetation and fewer visitors. Always check weather conditions before planning trips, as rough seas can strand visitors or prevent planned departures.

Insider Tips

Bring all necessary supplies including food, water, sunscreen, and medications as purchasing options are extremely limited on the island
Coordinate your visit with local contacts in advance, as the small community appreciates advance notice and can provide valuable assistance and insights
Pack light rain gear even during dry season, as weather can change quickly, and consider bringing a portable phone charger as electricity access may be limited

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