Palau in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Palau

30°C (87°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Peak diving season - March offers the clearest visibility (30-40m/98-131ft) at sites like Micronesia and German Channel as northeast trade winds calm down
Jellyfish Lake accessibility - March typically has stable water levels and comfortable 28°C (82°F) temperatures, ideal for the famous jellyfish encounter
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates are 20-30% lower than peak months (December-February) while weather remains excellent
Optimal fishing conditions - March marks peak season for giant trevally and Napoleon wrasse around the outer reefs, with calmer seas for boat trips

Considerations

Brief afternoon showers - While total rainfall is minimal, expect 10 days with short 20-30 minute downpours between 2-4pm that can interrupt boat schedules
Higher humidity levels at 70% make midday activities feel more intense, requiring more frequent hydration breaks
Variable wind patterns as seasons transition can occasionally affect outer atoll diving trips, though inner lagoon sites remain accessible

Best Activities in March

Blue Corner Wall Diving Expeditions

March offers peak conditions at Palau's most famous dive site with 35m+ (115ft+) visibility and calm currents. The transitioning season brings large pelagic aggregations including grey reef sharks and barracuda schools. Water temperature holds steady at 28°C (82°F), perfect for longer bottom times.

Booking Tip: Book 14-21 days ahead through PADI-certified operators. Two-tank dives typically cost $120-160, with advanced open water certification required. Morning trips (8am departure) avoid afternoon weather windows.

Jellyfish Lake Snorkeling Tours

March provides ideal conditions with stable lake levels and comfortable temperatures. The golden jellyfish are most active mid-morning when sunlight penetrates the marine lake. March's calm weather means consistent access via the 20-minute jungle walk from the dock.

Booking Tip: Combined Rock Island tours typically cost $80-120 including lunch and multiple snorkel stops. Book through licensed operators with valid permits. Tour groups limited to 30 people per guide for environmental protection.

Rock Islands Kayaking Adventures

March's variable weather creates perfect paddling conditions in the morning hours before afternoon showers. Explore hidden lagoons and mushroom-shaped islets with 27-28°C (80-82°F) water temperatures ideal for swimming breaks. The shoulder season means fewer crowds at pristine snorkeling spots.

Booking Tip: Half-day guided tours cost $60-85 including equipment and transfers. Book with operators providing covered areas for weather breaks. Self-guided rentals available for $35-45/day with basic navigation training.

World War II Historical Site Tours

March's comfortable temperatures and lower humidity in early morning hours make exploring jungle crash sites and concrete bunkers more pleasant. The brief afternoon showers actually provide cooling relief during inland excursions to sites like the Japanese Zero fighter wreck.

Booking Tip: Full-day historical tours cost $90-130 with transportation and guide. Many sites require 4WD access. Book tours that include both land sites and underwater wrecks for complete experience.

Outer Atoll Fishing Charters

March marks prime season for deep-sea fishing with calm early morning conditions before daily weather patterns develop. Target giant trevally, dogtooth tuna, and Spanish mackerel around the 100-fathom curve. Charter boats can navigate outer reefs safely in March's generally settled conditions.

Booking Tip: Full-day charters for 4-6 people cost $800-1200 including gear and lunch. Book with IGFA-certified captains. Half-day trips ($400-600) focus on inner reef species and accommodate weather flexibility.

Milky Way Lagoon Spa Treatments

The famous white mud lagoon offers natural spa experiences enhanced by March's warm water temperatures and calm conditions. The limestone mud contains beneficial minerals, and March's lower tourist numbers mean more space to enjoy this unique natural treatment in pristine surroundings.

Booking Tip: Usually included in Rock Island tour packages for $15-25 additional cost. Bring old swimwear as the white mud can stain. Combine with nearby snorkeling stops for full-day experiences costing $85-125 total.

March Events & Festivals

Late March

Palau Coral Spawning Season

March marks the beginning of hard coral spawning season, creating unique night diving opportunities to witness this natural phenomenon. Local dive operators offer special nighttime trips to observe the underwater 'snowstorm' effect.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight quick-dry rain jacket - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes but can be intense, and boat trips continue in light rain

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index of 8 requires reapplication every 90 minutes, especially on boats with reflected sunlight

Moisture-wicking synthetic shirts - 70% humidity makes cotton uncomfortable; synthetic fabrics dry faster between activities

Waterproof phone case - essential for boat trips and snorkeling, plus protection during brief afternoon showers

Lightweight long-sleeve sun shirt - provides UV protection during long boat rides and reduces sunscreen reapplication

Comfortable reef shoes - many snorkeling and beach areas have coral rubble requiring foot protection

Insect repellent with DEET - jungle areas and evening outdoor dining require protection from mosquitoes and no-see-ums

Dry bags in multiple sizes - protect electronics, documents, and spare clothes during water activities and weather transitions

Lightweight pants for evening - air-conditioned restaurants can feel cold after warm humid days, plus mosquito protection

Portable battery pack - high humidity can drain phone batteries faster, and long boat trips have no charging options

Insider Knowledge

Schedule water activities for 8am-1pm daily - afternoon weather patterns typically develop around 2pm, and morning visibility is always better for diving and snorkeling

Book accommodations on Koror's eastern side - these locations have better views and are upwind from the waste management facility that affects western areas

Carry small bills in US dollars - many small boat operators and local vendors prefer $5-10 bills over large denominations, and credit cards aren't accepted everywhere

Check tide schedules before booking Jellyfish Lake - extreme low tides can make the dock approach difficult, and tour operators sometimes adjust schedules accordingly

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking afternoon diving trips - visibility decreases as the day progresses, and weather windows often impact later departures starting around 2pm

Overpacking formal clothing - even upscale restaurants maintain casual island dress codes, and the humid climate makes heavy fabrics uncomfortable

Expecting reliable internet for work - many accommodations have limited bandwidth, and boat trips to outer sites have no connectivity for 6-8 hours