Palau in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Palau
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak diving season with 30-40m (98-131 ft) visibility and calm seas - northeast trade winds haven't started yet
- Dry season means reliable boat schedules to outer reefs and Rock Islands with minimal cancellations
- Tourist numbers are 40% lower than March-April peak, making popular dive sites less crowded
- Jellyfish Lake has optimal conditions with minimal stinging species and clearest water of the year
Considerations
- Accommodation prices increase 25-30% compared to January as word spreads about optimal diving conditions
- Brief afternoon rain showers (20-30 minutes) occur on 10 days, though they rarely affect morning dive schedules
- Strong UV at 30m (98 ft) altitude means sunburn happens faster than expected - even experienced divers get caught off guard
Best Activities in February
Blue Corner Wall Diving Expeditions
February offers the year's best conditions at Palau's most famous dive site. Water temperature holds steady at 28°C (82°F) with minimal current variation. Shark aggregations peak during this month as they follow baitfish migrations. Morning dives (8am-10am) have the calmest conditions before afternoon wind picks up.
Rock Islands Kayaking Tours
February's calm seas and minimal rainfall create perfect paddling conditions through the UNESCO World Heritage lagoons. Morning tours (7am-11am) avoid the stronger afternoon winds that develop after 2pm. Water levels are optimal for accessing smaller lagoons that become too shallow later in dry season.
Jellyfish Lake Swimming Experience
February marks the optimal window when golden jellies are most active and water clarity reaches 15m (49 ft). The lake's thermocline is most stable during this period, keeping jellyfish concentrated in the top 3m (10 ft) where snorkelers can interact with them. Afternoon visits (2pm-4pm) offer the most active jellyfish behavior.
Ngardmau Waterfall Hiking Adventures
February's reduced rainfall means easier creek crossings and firmer trail conditions on the 4.8 km (3 mile) round trip. The 30m (98 ft) waterfall maintains good flow from January rains while trails dry out enough for safe hiking. Early morning starts (6am-7am) avoid afternoon heat and potential showers.
Traditional Village Cultural Immersions
February coincides with traditional taro harvest season in Babeldaob villages. Visitors can participate in authentic cultural activities rather than tourist demonstrations. Village chiefs are more available during this agricultural period, offering deeper cultural exchanges and traditional cooking experiences using fresh harvest ingredients.
WWII Historical Site Explorations
February's dry conditions provide best access to jungle-covered aircraft wrecks and defensive positions. Overgrowth is at its lowest after January's brief wet period, making photography clearer and navigation easier. Cooler morning temperatures (24-26°C/75-79°F) make 3-4 hour historical treks more comfortable.
February Events & Festivals
Chinese New Year Celebrations
Palau's significant Chinese community celebrates with traditional lion dances, fireworks, and special feast preparations. Local Chinese restaurants offer special New Year menus featuring traditional dishes rarely available other times. Community celebrations happen at the Chinese Community Center in Koror with public welcome.
Taro Harvest Festival
Traditional Palauan celebration marking the year's first major taro harvest in Babeldaob villages. Features traditional cooking demonstrations, storytelling by elders, and opportunity to participate in harvest activities. Each village celebrates on different weekends throughout February.