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Koror, Palau - Things to Do in Koror

Things to Do in Koror

Koror, Palau - Complete Travel Guide

Koror has fewer than 12,000 people but sits atop some of the Pacific's best diving. This compact city is Palau's economic heart, positioned well among the famous Rock Islands for underwater adventures. Total game-changer for divers. The city balances modern amenities with authentic Pacific island culture—something most tourist destinations can't pull off. You'll find reliable internet, good restaurants, and comfortable hotels without the overdevelopment that kills character. Walk downtown in 20 minutes, but the surrounding waters offer weeks of exploration.

Top Things to Do in Koror

Rock Islands Southern Lagoon

Over 400 mushroom-shaped limestone islands rise from turquoise waters in this UNESCO World Heritage site. The lagoon offers some of the Pacific's most photographed scenery with hidden lagoons and clean beaches. Worth the hype. Most tours combine multiple stops including secluded beaches and coral gardens that feel like swimming in an aquarium.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically cost $80-120 per person and include lunch and snorkeling gear. Book through established operators like Sam's Tours or Fish 'n Fins who know the best spots and tide conditions. Morning departures offer calmer seas and better visibility.

Jellyfish Lake

Swimming among millions of harmless golden jellyfish ranks among the world's most surreal natural experiences. The jellyfish evolved without stingers due to the lake's isolation, creating safe conditions for otherworldly snorkeling. Totally unique. The lake requires a moderate jungle hike to reach.

Booking Tip: Entry requires a $100 Rock Islands permit (valid for 10 days) plus tour costs of $60-80. Tours often combine this with other sites to maximize permit value. Book ahead as daily visitor numbers are limited to protect the ecosystem.

World-Class Diving Sites

Palau consistently ranks among the world's top diving destinations. Sites like Blue Corner and German Channel offer encounters with sharks, manta rays, and massive fish schools. The diving ranges from gentle coral gardens for beginners to adrenaline-pumping drift dives for advanced divers—visibility often exceeds 100 feet.

Booking Tip: Two-tank dives cost $110-130, with PADI certification courses around $400-500. Sam's Tours and Fish 'n Fins are the most established operators. Book certification courses well in advance, especially during peak season (December-April).

Palau National Museum

This compact museum provides essential context for understanding Palauan culture and the islands' complex World War II history. Exhibits cover everything from ancient pottery to traditional money systems and navigation techniques. The WWII section is particularly complete, helping visitors appreciate the cultural significance of what they're seeing around the islands.

Booking Tip: Entry costs $10 for adults, and the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit. It's worth going early in your trip to gain background knowledge that enhances other activities.

Kayaking Through Mangrove Channels

Paddling through Palau's extensive mangrove systems has a peaceful alternative to motorboat tours. You'll spot saltwater crocodiles, exotic birds, and unique marine life in shallow channels. Perfect change of pace. The mangroves serve as nurseries for many fish species, making for excellent snorkeling stops with several routes for different skill levels.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost $60-80 and include all equipment. Planet Blue and Impac Tours offer good guided options, though experienced kayakers can rent equipment for $30-40 per day. Early morning tours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Getting There

Palau International Airport sits 30 minutes south of Koror with direct flights from Manila, Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo. United Airlines connects through Guam to US mainland flights. Most visitors need at least one connection—flight schedules run just 3-4 times weekly from each hub. The airport is modern but small, so immigration moves fast.

Getting Around

Koror is walkable. Rent a car ($40-60 daily) to explore the main island of Babeldaob properly. Several rental agencies operate near the airport and downtown—book ahead for guaranteed availability. Taxis cost $25-30 to the airport, and many hotels offer bicycles for town trips.

Where to Stay

Koror Town Center
Malakal Island
Airai (near airport)
West Koror waterfront
Ngerekebesang Island
Arakabesan Island

Food & Dining

Koror's dining reflects its Pacific crossroads location well. The Taj, Elilai, and Yano's offer upscale dining with fresh seafood and international menus. Local spots like Bemermii serve traditional dishes including fruit bat soup and taro—not for everyone. Several restaurants specialize in fresh sashimi, taking advantage of Palau's pristine waters.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Palau

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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il Mulino

4.5 /5
(1946 reviews) 2
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La Cucina Italiana Raleigh

4.8 /5
(1760 reviews) 2
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Casa D'Angelo Ristorante

4.6 /5
(1675 reviews) 3
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Cafe Vico – Authentic Italian Restaurant & Catering in Fort Lauderdale

4.6 /5
(1479 reviews) 3
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The Etna Rosso Ristorante

4.8 /5
(512 reviews) 2
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Drop Off Bar and Grill

4.5 /5
(504 reviews) 2
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When to Visit

December through April offers the most reliable weather and best diving conditions. Calmer seas, clearer skies. Palau's tropical climate means excellent diving year-round, and wet season brings lower prices with fewer crowds. Temperatures stay in the 80s consistently—even rainy season showers tend to be brief rather than all-day affairs.

Insider Tips

Buy the Rock Islands permit early—it's valid 10 days and covers multiple attractions you'll need for most boat tours.
Many restaurants close Sundays. Stock up on snacks or plan weekend dining accordingly.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen since regular sunscreen is banned to protect coral—local shops sell approved brands at premium prices.

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Itineraries

Sample trip routes and plans for Koror

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Koror

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Koror

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Koror

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