Palau - Things to Do in Palau in June

Palau in June

June weather, activities, events & insider tips

June Weather in Palau

30°C (87°F) High Temp
24°C (75°F) Low Temp
0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is June Right for You?

Advantages

  • Peak visibility underwater - June marks the end of dry season with crystal-clear lagoons offering 30-45 m (98-148 ft) visibility for diving and snorkeling
  • Lowest accommodation rates of the year - June sits in shoulder season before July-August peak, with resort rates 20-30% below high season pricing
  • Minimal crowds at iconic sites - Jellyfish Lake and Micronesia typically see 40% fewer visitors than peak months, allowing for more intimate wildlife encounters
  • Perfect weather window - morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) are ideal for long diving sessions, while brief afternoon showers provide welcome cooling breaks

Considerations

  • Unpredictable rain timing - while total rainfall is minimal, 10 rainy days means a 33% chance of afternoon showers that can disrupt boat schedules for 1-2 hours
  • Transitional weather patterns - June sits between dry and wet seasons, creating variable wind conditions that occasionally cancel outer reef dive trips
  • Limited evening entertainment - many local cultural events happen during cooler months, leaving fewer authentic cultural experiences for visitors

Best Activities in June

Blue Corner Wall Diving

June offers the year's clearest water at this world-famous shark aggregation site. Morning dives (7-10am) provide the best shark encounters with grey reef sharks, whitetips, and occasional hammerheads. Water temperature holds steady at 28°C (82°F) with minimal thermoclines. The shoulder season means smaller dive groups of 6-8 divers versus 12-15 in peak months.

Booking Tip: Book through PADI-certified operators 2-3 weeks ahead. Advanced Open Water certification required. Typical cost ranges $180-220 USD for 2-tank dives including equipment. Morning departures at 7:30am return by 1pm before afternoon weather changes.

Jellyfish Lake Snorkeling Tours

June water temperatures of 29°C (84°F) create optimal conditions for the golden jellyfish migration patterns. Morning tours (8am-12pm) avoid afternoon thermal layers that can disturb jellyfish distribution. The 800 m (0.5 mile) jungle trek remains dry and manageable in June's low-humidity mornings.

Booking Tip: Requires $100 USD Jellyfish Lake permit valid for 10 days. Book permits online 1 week ahead through official Rock Islands Southern Lagoon office. Tours typically cost $120-150 USD including transportation and snorkeling gear. Avoid afternoon tours during rainy periods.

Kayaking Through Rock Islands

June's calm morning conditions are perfect for multi-hour kayaking expeditions through the mushroom-shaped limestone formations. Morning departures take advantage of 24°C (75°F) temperatures and glass-like water surfaces. Hidden lagoons remain accessible during low-tide windows that occur mid-morning in June.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost $80-110 USD, full-day expeditions run $140-180 USD. Book with operators providing dry bags and reef-safe sunscreen. Tours depart 8am to avoid afternoon weather. No experience required but basic swimming ability essential.

Ngardmau Waterfall Hiking

June's minimal rainfall creates perfect conditions for the 45-minute hike through Palau's largest waterfall trail. The 18 m (59 ft) waterfall maintains strong flow from late wet season runoff while jungle paths remain dry and well-defined. Early morning hikes (7-9am) avoid afternoon humidity peaks.

Booking Tip: Entry fee $20 USD per person, guided hikes cost $60-80 USD including transportation from Koror. Bring sturdy hiking shoes for the 3.2 km (2 mile) round trip trail. Local guides provide cultural context about traditional plant uses.

Sunset Fishing Charters

June marks peak season for yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi fishing in Palau's outer waters. Afternoon departures (2-7pm) coincide with fish feeding patterns and provide spectacular sunset views over the Philippine Sea. Calm evening waters make this ideal for first-time deep-sea fishing.

Booking Tip: Half-day charters for 4-6 people range $800-1200 USD including tackle and bait. Book through licensed operators with GPS fish finders and safety equipment. Many trips include fish preparation for dinner at local restaurants.

Cultural Village Tours in Airai

June temperatures make walking tours through traditional Palauan villages comfortable during morning hours. Experience traditional taro farming, weaving demonstrations, and authentic Palauan cooking methods. Village elders share oral histories during cooler parts of the day.

Booking Tip: Community-based tours cost $40-60 USD per person including traditional lunch. Book through village cooperatives 3-5 days ahead. Tours run 9am-2pm to avoid afternoon heat. Respectful dress required - cover shoulders and knees.

June Events & Festivals

Late June

Constitution Day Celebrations

July 9th preparations begin in late June with traditional dance rehearsals and cultural competitions visible throughout Koror. Local schools practice traditional Palauan dances in public spaces, offering authentic cultural glimpses typically not accessible to tourists.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - Palau strictly enforces chemical sunscreen bans and UV index of 8 requires maximum protection
Quick-dry rashguard - Essential for extended water activities and protection from jellyfish in enclosed lagoons
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - Afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes but can be intense with limited shelter on boats
Sturdy water shoes with good grip - Sharp coral and slippery boat decks require protective footwear for all water activities
Dry bag (20-30 liter capacity) - Protects electronics and documents during water transfers and unexpected rain showers
Breathable hiking pants - Jungle treks require leg protection from insects and thorny plants while maintaining ventilation
High-quality mask and snorkel - Rental equipment varies in quality, and clear vision is crucial for marine life viewing
Insect repellent with 30% DEET - Evening mosquitoes and no-see-ums are active during humid periods
Waterproof phone case - Essential for underwater photography and protection during boat transfers
Cotton or linen clothing in light colors - Synthetic fabrics trap humidity making 70% humidity feel oppressive

Insider Knowledge

Book morning dive slots first - Local operators know afternoon weather can force cancellations, so morning trips get priority for boat assignments and best dive sites
Carry small denomination US bills - Many local services prefer cash payments, and $1, $5, and $10 bills are essential since credit cards aren't universally accepted
Download offline maps before arriving - Cell coverage is limited outside Koror, and GPS navigation fails in many outer island areas where tours operate
Pack extra batteries and memory cards - Palau's marine life creates once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities, and electronics drain faster in humid conditions

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking afternoon water tours - Local operators know morning conditions are most reliable, but tourists often prefer later start times and face higher cancellation rates
Underestimating sun exposure - Reflected UV from white sand and clear water creates intense exposure even on cloudy days, leading to severe sunburns
Overpacking electronics - Humidity and salt air damage equipment quickly, and many tourists bring excessive gear that becomes burdensome during water activities

Activities in Palau