Ultimate Palau Paradise: Two Weeks in the Rock Islands
From World-Class Diving to Ancient Jellyfish Lakes
Trip Overview
This comprehensive two-week journey through Palau offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation in one of the world's premier marine destinations. Experience legendary dive sites, kayak through pristine Rock Islands, snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, and immerse yourself in Palauan culture. The itinerary combines active water sports with cultural exploration, beach relaxation, and island hopping. You'll explore Koror's vibrant hub, venture to remote outer islands, discover WWII history, and witness unique natural phenomena like the famous jellyfish lake. With a moderate pace allowing for both adventure and downtime, this journey showcases why Palau is considered one of the planet's last unspoiled marine paradises, offering encounters with manta rays, sharks, turtles, and thousands of tropical fish species in waters protected as a national marine sanctuary.
Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$200-350 per day
Best Seasons
November to April (dry season)
Ideal For
Scuba divers and snorkelers, Marine life enthusiasts, Adventure seekers, Honeymooners, Nature photographers, Island hoppers
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival & Koror Orientation
Arrive in Palau, settle into your accommodation, and take it easy with a gentle introduction to island life and local culture.
Morning
Arrival at Roman Tmetuchl International Airport
Clear customs and immigration, arrange your dive permit if planning to dive (mandatory for all divers), and transfer to your accommodation in Koror. Take time to rest after your international flight and adjust to the tropical climate. Visit a local shop to stock up on reef-safe sunscreen and any essentials you may need.
Arrange airport transfer with your hotel in advance
Lunch
A casual waterfront restaurant in downtown Koror
Afternoon
Explore downtown Koror
Take a leisurely walk through Koror's compact downtown area. Visit local shops, stop by the main market to see fresh produce and local crafts, and get oriented with the island's layout. Exchange currency if needed and familiarize yourself with local restaurants and services. Visit a dive shop to discuss your upcoming water activities and confirm bookings.
Evening
Welcome dinner and sunset viewing
Dine at a restaurant with harbor views, trying local dishes like bat soup or coconut crab if adventurous, or fresh grilled fish. Watch the sunset over the Rock Islands from the waterfront.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Koror (Mid-range hotel near the waterfront)
Central location provides easy access to dive shops, restaurants, and tour operators for the days ahead
Palau is cash-heavy; many small operators don't accept cards, so withdraw sufficient USD from ATMs in Koror
Day 1 Budget: $200-250
2
Rock Islands Introduction
Rock Islands Southern Lagoon
Your first full day exploring Palau's iconic Rock Islands with snorkeling, beach time, and the famous Milky Way lagoon experience.
Morning
Rock Islands boat tour departure
Depart early on a full-day boat tour through the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruise past the mushroom-shaped limestone islands covered in lush vegetation. Your first stop will be a pristine snorkeling site where you'll encounter colorful coral gardens, tropical fish, and possibly sea turtles. The calm, clear waters offer perfect visibility for your first Palauan snorkel.
Book Rock Islands tours 2-3 days in advance during peak season
Lunch
Picnic lunch on a secluded white-sand beach
Afternoon
Milky Way lagoon and more snorkeling
Visit the famous Milky Way, a shallow lagoon with milky-white limestone mud on the bottom. Cover yourself in the mineral-rich mud, believed to have therapeutic properties, then rinse off in the turquoise water. Continue to another snorkeling spot, exploring different coral formations and marine life. End the afternoon relaxing on a pristine beach before heading back to Koror.
Evening
Relaxed evening in Koror
Early dinner at a local eatery, trying Palauan-style grilled fish with taro. Rest early to prepare for tomorrow's diving adventure.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Koror (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Convenient base for daily boat departures
Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and valuables; boats can get wet from spray and rain
Day 2 Budget: $250-300
3
World-Class Diving Begins
Experience two of Palau's most famous dive sites, including the legendary Blue Corner and the manta ray cleaning station at German Channel.
Morning
Blue Corner dive
Embark on a three-tank dive day starting with Blue Corner, consistently rated one of the world's best dive sites. Experience the thrilling drift dive along the corner where reef meets open ocean. Hook in and watch as grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks, blacktip sharks, barracuda, tuna, and Napoleon wrasse patrol the reef. The current brings nutrient-rich water, attracting massive schools of fish in an underwater spectacle unlike anywhere else.
Book dive packages in advance; Blue Corner requires advanced certification and experience
Lunch
Lunch served on the dive boat between dives
Afternoon
German Channel manta ray dive
Dive the famous German Channel, a man-made cut through the reef created by the Germans in the early 1900s. This site is renowned for its manta ray cleaning stations. Watch gracefully as these gentle giants glide overhead while cleaner wrasse remove parasites. The channel also hosts diverse marine life including eagle rays, turtles, and reef sharks. Your third dive will be at another nearby site, possibly a coral garden or wall dive.
Evening
Dive debrief and dinner
Share stories from the day's incredible dives over dinner at a restaurant popular with the dive community. Review your underwater photos and video.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Koror (Same accommodation)
Close to dive operators for early morning departures
Bring a reef hook for Blue Corner; the current can be strong and you'll want to stay in position to watch the action
Day 3 Budget: $280-350
4
Wreck Diving & WWII History
Various wreck dive sites
Explore Palau's fascinating underwater WWII history with wreck dives and learn about the Pacific theater's impact on these islands.
Morning
Japanese wreck diving
Dive on one or more of Palau's many WWII wrecks, remnants of fierce Pacific battles. Popular sites include Japanese fighter planes, cargo ships, and other vessels now covered in coral and teeming with marine life. These time capsules offer haunting glimpses into history while providing habitat for fish, soft corals, and other sea creatures. The wrecks range from shallow, easy dives to deeper technical dives depending on your certification level.
Specify interest in wreck diving when booking; some require advanced certification
Lunch
Return to Koror for lunch at a local spot
Afternoon
Visit WWII historical sites on land
Explore Koror's WWII relics and memorials. Visit Japanese pillboxes, anti-aircraft guns, and other remnants scattered around the island. Stop by a small museum or cultural center to learn about Palau's experience during Japanese occupation and American liberation. The afternoon provides context for the morning's underwater discoveries and insight into how the war shaped modern Palau.
Evening
Cultural dinner experience
Attend a traditional Palauan feast if available, or dine at a restaurant serving authentic local cuisine. Try red rice, taro, cassava, and fresh fish prepared traditional style.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Koror (Same accommodation)
Maintaining your established base in Koror
Many wrecks are war graves; dive respectfully and don't remove artifacts or disturb the sites
Day 4 Budget: $250-320
5
Jellyfish Lake & Kayaking Adventure
Eil Malk Island, Rock Islands
Experience the unique phenomenon of swimming with millions of harmless jellyfish, followed by kayaking through pristine marine lakes.
Morning
Jellyfish Lake snorkel
Take a boat to Eil Malk Island and hike briefly through jungle to reach Jellyfish Lake, one of Palau's most unique attractions. Snorkel among millions of golden jellyfish that have evolved without stingers due to the lake's isolation. Watch as they migrate across the lake following the sun. This surreal experience is unlike anything else on Earth. Note that the jellyfish population fluctuates naturally, but even in lower years, the experience is magical.
Book through a reputable operator; permit fees support conservation efforts
Lunch
Beachside picnic in the Rock Islands
Afternoon
Kayaking through marine lakes and tunnels
Paddle through crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden lagoons, limestone caves, and narrow passages between Rock Islands. Glide over coral gardens visible through the transparent water, and enter secluded marine lakes accessible only by kayak through low-ceiling tunnels. The peaceful afternoon offers wildlife spotting opportunities including sea turtles, rays, and tropical birds nesting in the limestone cliffs above.
Evening
Sunset and dinner
Watch the sunset from a waterfront location in Koror, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant with fresh catch of the day. Reflect on your unique jellyfish encounter.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Koror (Same accommodation)
Central location for continued island exploration
Wear a full-body rash guard or wetsuit in Jellyfish Lake to protect from sun and minor jellyfish contact
Day 5 Budget: $280-320
6
Peleliu Island Day Trip
Journey to historic Peleliu Island to explore one of WWII's bloodiest battlefields and enjoy pristine, less-visited beaches.
Morning
Ferry to Peleliu and historical tour
Take an early ferry or speedboat to Peleliu, site of one of the Pacific War's most brutal battles. Tour the island's WWII sites including the 1,000 Man Cave where Japanese soldiers made their final stand, rusting tanks, artillery pieces, and the old airstrip. Visit memorials honoring both American and Japanese soldiers. The island remains largely undeveloped, offering a sobering and moving historical experience surrounded by peaceful tropical scenery.
Arrange a guided tour in advance; local guides provide essential historical context
Lunch
Simple meal at a local family-run establishment in Peleliu village
Afternoon
Peleliu beach and snorkeling
Spend the afternoon at one of Peleliu's beautiful, uncrowded beaches. Snorkel in clear waters with excellent coral reefs and abundant fish life. The beaches here see far fewer visitors than the main Rock Islands, offering a more secluded experience. Explore the coastline and enjoy the peaceful island atmosphere before catching the afternoon ferry back to Koror.
Evening
Return to Koror
Evening ferry back to Koror. Light dinner and early rest after a full day of history and sun.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection; Peleliu has limited facilities and can be very hot
Day 6 Budget: $200-280
A slower-paced day to rest from diving, explore Palauan culture, and visit the larger island of Babeldaob.
Morning
Drive across the bridge to Babeldaob, Palau's largest island and one of the Pacific's largest raised atolls. Visit the impressive capitol building, a striking blend of modern architecture and traditional Palauan design. Stop at ancient stone monoliths, mysterious structures whose origins remain debated. The scenic drive offers views of jungle-covered hills, traditional villages, and coastal vistas rarely seen by visitors who stay only in Koror.
Rent a car for flexibility or join a cultural tour
Lunch
Traditional meal in a village on Babeldaob
Afternoon
Visit a traditional men's house and cultural center
Learn about Palauan traditions, clan systems, and the important role of the bai (men's meeting house) in village life. See traditional crafts including storyboards carved from local wood, woven baskets, and shell jewelry. Engage with local artisans and learn about customs, legends, and the matrilineal society structure that defines Palauan culture. This provides valuable context for understanding modern Palau.
Evening
Relaxed evening
Enjoy a leisurely dinner, perhaps trying a restaurant you haven't visited yet. Take an evening stroll along the waterfront and prepare for more diving adventures ahead.
Ask permission before photographing people or traditional sites; respect local customs and private property
Day 7 Budget: $180-240
8
Chandelier Cave & Advanced Diving
Chandelier Cave and outer reefs
Experience the unique cavern dive at Chandelier Cave and explore more of Palau's legendary dive sites.
Morning
Chandelier Cave dive
Descend into Chandelier Cave, an underwater cavern system with multiple air-filled chambers. Surface inside the cave to see stunning limestone formations, stalactites resembling chandeliers, and unique light effects. This cavern dive requires advanced certification but offers an otherworldly experience. The cave's chambers are home to unique marine life adapted to the brackish water conditions. After the cave, enjoy another dive at a nearby site.
Requires advanced open water certification and cavern diving experience
Lunch
Lunch on the dive boat
Afternoon
Wall diving and shark encounters
Explore dramatic wall dives where the reef drops hundreds of feet into the deep blue. Drift along walls covered in soft corals, sea fans, and sponges while spotting pelagic fish in the blue water. Possible sites include Peleliu Corner or New Drop Off, known for strong currents and big fish action. Watch for grey reef sharks, eagle rays, and schools of barracuda patrolling the wall.
Evening
Dive community dinner
Join fellow divers at a popular gathering spot to share stories and compare experiences. Many dive operators host informal evening meetups.
Bring a good dive light for Chandelier Cave; the formations are much more impressive with proper illumination
Day 8 Budget: $280-350
9
Northern Reefs Exploration
Northern dive sites
Venture to less-visited northern dive sites for pristine reefs, unique topography, and excellent marine biodiversity.
Morning
Northern reef diving
Head north to dive sites that see fewer visitors but offer equally spectacular diving. Explore healthy hard coral gardens, swim-throughs, and reef formations teeming with tropical fish. These sites often provide calmer conditions than the famous southern sites, with excellent macro life including nudibranchs, shrimps, and unusual critters. The longer boat ride is rewarded with pristine reefs and a sense of discovery.
Northern sites require good weather; trips may be rescheduled if conditions are poor
Lunch
Lunch on the boat or at a northern beach
Afternoon
Continue northern site diving
Complete your three-tank day with more northern reef exploration. Sites may include turtle cleaning stations, coral bommies rising from sandy bottoms, or channels with unique current patterns. The afternoon dive often offers the best light for photography, illuminating the colorful soft corals and reef fish. Surface intervals on remote beaches provide a true castaway feeling.
Evening
Casual evening
Simple dinner and early rest. Consider getting a massage to ease any muscle soreness from diving.
Northern sites are excellent for macro photography; bring your camera with a macro lens if you have one
Day 9 Budget: $260-320
10
Stand-Up Paddleboarding & Relaxation
Rock Islands lagoons
Take a break from diving with stand-up paddleboarding, beach time, and leisurely exploration of calm lagoons.
Morning
Stand-up paddleboarding tour
Explore the Rock Islands from a different perspective on a stand-up paddleboard. Glide across mirror-calm lagoons, paddle through narrow channels between islands, and access shallow areas where boats can't go. The elevated vantage point offers views of coral and marine life below while providing a peaceful, meditative experience. Stop at secluded beaches and explore limestone caves at your own pace.
Book with an operator that provides instruction for beginners
Lunch
Beach barbecue lunch
Afternoon
Beach relaxation and snorkeling
Spend a leisurely afternoon on a pristine beach. Snorkel at your own pace in the calm lagoon, read a book under palm trees, or simply relax on white sand. This slower day allows your body to off-gas nitrogen before your final dives and provides a peaceful counterpoint to the active adventure days. Explore tide pools and enjoy the natural beauty without a schedule.
Evening
Sunset cruise option
Consider booking a sunset cruise around the Rock Islands, or enjoy sunset from shore followed by dinner at a restaurant with views.
This is a perfect day for underwater photography equipment maintenance and photo organization
Day 10 Budget: $220-280
11
Final Epic Dives
Blue Holes & Siaes Tunnel
Return to world-class diving with the dramatic Blue Holes and the exciting swim-through at Siaes Tunnel.
Morning
Blue Holes dive
Experience the cathedral-like Blue Holes, where four openings in the reef top at 10 meters drop down through chambers to open onto a vertical wall at 30 meters. Swim through the holes watching light beams penetrate the water, then exit onto the wall to find yourself surrounded by sharks, turtles, and schools of fish. This dramatic dive combines cavern elements with wall diving in one spectacular site.
Requires advanced certification; best done early in the day for optimal light
Lunch
Boat lunch between dives
Afternoon
Siaes Tunnel and reef diving
Dive Siaes Tunnel, an exciting swim-through that penetrates the reef, emerging on the outer wall. The tunnel is wide enough to be comfortable but narrow enough to feel adventurous. After exiting, explore the wall where grey reef sharks patrol and large groupers lurk in crevices. Your final dive may be at another classic site, perhaps returning to a favorite or trying somewhere new based on conditions.
Evening
Celebration dinner
Enjoy a special dinner at an upscale waterfront restaurant, celebrating your incredible diving experiences with fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.
Blue Holes is spectacular for photography; position yourself to capture other divers silhouetted in the light beams
Day 11 Budget: $280-350
12
Ngardmau Waterfall & Island Interior
Babeldaob interior
Explore Babeldaob's lush interior with a hike to Palau's tallest waterfall and visits to traditional villages.
Morning
Hike to Ngardmau Waterfall
Drive to northern Babeldaob for a jungle trek to Ngardmau, Palau's highest waterfall. The moderate hike through tropical forest crosses streams and passes traditional taro patches. Arrive at the impressive falls cascading into a pool where you can swim in cool fresh water. The hike offers a different perspective on Palau beyond the marine environment, showcasing the islands' terrestrial beauty and agricultural traditions.
Hire a local guide who can explain traditional land use and plant species
Lunch
Packed lunch at the waterfall or village meal
Afternoon
Village visits and scenic drive
Visit traditional villages in Babeldaob's interior, seeing how modern Palauans live while maintaining cultural traditions. Drive the scenic cross-island road with stops at viewpoints overlooking both coasts. Visit working taro patches, see traditional architecture, and perhaps stop at a local craft cooperative. The afternoon provides insight into daily life beyond the tourist areas of Koror.
Evening
Farewell dinner preparation
Return to Koror for dinner at a favorite restaurant from earlier in your trip, or try a final new spot. Begin organizing and packing for departure.
Wear water shoes for the waterfall hike; you'll cross streams and the pool has a rocky bottom
Day 12 Budget: $180-240
13
Final Water Activities & Souvenir Shopping
Koror and nearby waters
Last chance for water activities, souvenir shopping, and favorite spot revisits before departure.
Morning
Final snorkel or dive
Take a final morning on the water with a half-day snorkel trip or, if you're not flying tomorrow, one last dive at a favorite site. Alternatively, try a new activity like fishing, sailing, or a glass-bottom boat tour. This flexible morning allows you to revisit a highlight or try something you missed earlier in the trip. Savor your final hours in Palau's incredible waters.
Remember the 24-hour no-fly rule after diving
Lunch
Lunch at a favorite spot from your trip
Afternoon
Souvenir shopping and packing
Browse local shops for souvenirs including carved storyboards, woven baskets, shell jewelry, and local crafts. Visit the main market for last-minute gifts. Purchase coffee, hot sauce, or other local products to take home. Spend time organizing your luggage, ensuring dive equipment is dry, and preparing for tomorrow's departure. Perhaps visit a final viewpoint for photos.
Evening
Farewell dinner and reflection
Enjoy a final sunset over the Rock Islands and a farewell dinner at a special restaurant. Reflect on your two weeks of incredible experiences, review photos, and share favorite memories.
Confirm your flight and airport transfer the night before; arrange early check-in if needed
Day 13 Budget: $250-350
14
Departure Day
Koror to Airport
Final morning in paradise before departing Palau with unforgettable memories and perhaps plans to return.
Morning
Leisurely breakfast and hotel checkout
Enjoy a final breakfast with tropical fruit and coffee. Complete hotel checkout, ensuring you haven't left anything behind. If time permits before your transfer, take a final walk along the waterfront or revisit a nearby viewpoint. Double-check that you have all travel documents, souvenirs are properly packed, and any wet dive gear is separated in your luggage.
Lunch
Light meal at the airport if time permits
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, allowing plenty of time for check-in. The small airport processes passengers efficiently, but arriving early is wise for international flights. Pay any departure tax if required. As you fly away, take in aerial views of the Rock Islands, the barrier reef, and the lagoons you've explored over the past two weeks, carrying memories of one of the world's most spectacular marine destinations.
Confirm transfer pickup time with hotel the previous evening
Evening
International flight departure
Most international flights depart in late afternoon or evening. Begin your journey home with a camera full of photos and plans to return to Palau.
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Overnight flight)
Departure day
Keep reef-safe sunscreen and dive gear accessible if connecting through countries where you might dive again soon
Day 14 Budget: $80-150
Practical Information
Getting Around
Most visitors base themselves in Koror and join daily boat tours to dive sites and the Rock Islands. Rental cars are useful for exploring Babeldaob and Peleliu is accessible by ferry or small plane. Within Koror, taxis are available but many hotels provide bicycles. All dive sites and Rock Islands destinations require boat access through tour operators. The main bridge connects Koror to Babeldaob, making independent exploration possible. Most dive shops and tour operators provide hotel pickup. Walking is feasible in downtown Koror but not practical for most attractions.
Book Ahead
Book dive packages and Rock Islands tours 1-2 weeks ahead during peak season (December-March). Accommodation should be reserved well in advance, especially during holidays. Jellyfish Lake tours and popular dive sites like Blue Corner can fill up. Purchase dive permit upon arrival ($50 for 10 days). Rock Islands permit ($100 for 10 days) is required for all visits and usually collected by tour operators. International flights should be booked months in advance as options are limited.
Packing Essentials
Reef-safe sunscreen (required by law), dive certification cards, underwater camera, rash guard or wetsuit, water shoes, reef-safe mosquito repellent, waterproof bags, prescription medications, basic first aid kit, sun hat, quality sunglasses, light rain jacket, modest clothing for village visits, dive computer if you own one, cash in USD for small operators, power adapter (US plugs), and backup SD cards for photos
Total Budget
$3,400-4,500 for 14 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay at budget guesthouses or hostels in Koror ($40-60/night). Join shared boat tours rather than private charters. Snorkel instead of diving to save on dive costs. Eat at local markets and simple restaurants. Rent a bicycle instead of a car. Skip Peleliu day trip and focus on Rock Islands. Cook some meals if accommodation has kitchen facilities. Join group tours for all activities. Budget total: $2,200-2,800 for 14 days.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at a premium oceanfront resort with private beach access. Book private dive charters with dedicated guides. Arrange helicopter tours over the Rock Islands. Stay at the exclusive resort on Carp Island or Peleliu. Hire private guides for all activities. Enjoy spa treatments and fine dining. Take scenic flights and private yacht charters. Add a liveaboard diving experience. Upgrade to premium rooms with ocean views and private balconies. Budget total: $6,000-9,000+ for 14 days.
Family-Friendly
Focus on snorkeling rather than diving for younger family members. Choose calm lagoon activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Visit beaches with gentle entry and calm water. Skip advanced dive sites and Chandelier Cave. Add more beach relaxation time. Choose family-friendly accommodations with connecting rooms. Pack reef shoes for all family members. Bring underwater disposable cameras for kids. Visit the aquarium and cultural centers. Arrange shorter boat trips with more frequent breaks. Consider hiring a private guide for flexibility with children's schedules.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Palau