Palau in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Palau
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Dry season conditions with minimal rainfall make September ideal for multi-day liveaboard diving trips to remote sites like Peleliu Corner and German Channel
- Manta ray aggregations peak in September at German Channel - visibility reaches 30-40m (98-131 ft) during this period
- Post-typhoon season means calmer seas and consistent 26-28°C (79-82°F) water temperatures, perfect for extended diving sessions
- Tourist numbers drop significantly after August school holidays, giving you uncrowded access to Jellyfish Lake and popular dive sites
Considerations
- September marks transition into peak tourist season - accommodation prices increase 30-40% compared to August, especially on Koror
- Strong trade winds can create choppy surface conditions during 10am-3pm periods, making some outer reef sites inaccessible on certain days
- Higher humidity (70%) combined with limited air conditioning in traditional bai meeting houses and some local restaurants can be uncomfortable for heat-sensitive travelers
Best Activities in September
Blue Corner and New Drop-off Drift Diving
September's consistent currents and 30-40m (98-131 ft) visibility create perfect conditions for Palau's signature drift dives. Gray reef sharks, barracuda schools, and Napoleon wrasse are most active during this period. Water temperature stays constant at 27-28°C (81-82°F), eliminating the need for thick wetsuits.
Jellyfish Lake Snorkeling Tours
September's stable weather patterns mean consistent access to this UNESCO site. Golden jellyfish populations peak during this month, and the 1.6 km (1 mile) trek through jungle terrain is more comfortable with lower rainfall. Lake temperature reaches 30°C (86°F) - perfect for extended snorkeling sessions.
Kayaking Through Rock Islands
September's trade winds create ideal paddling conditions in the morning hours (7am-11am) before winds pick up. Navigate through 445 limestone mushroom islands with calm lagoon waters and excellent visibility for spotting dugongs and sea turtles. Hidden lagoons and beaches are accessible during low tide cycles.
Traditional Palauan Cooking Classes
September coincides with taro harvest season, making it perfect timing to learn traditional preparation of Palau's staple foods. Local families offer hands-on classes featuring fresh-caught fish, coconut crab (in season), and indigenous vegetables. Classes typically held in traditional bai structures.
WWII Historical Site Tours
September's drier conditions make jungle trekking to crash sites and bunkers more accessible. Peleliu Battlefield tours are particularly rewarding as vegetation is less dense, improving visibility of preserved tanks, caves, and fortifications. Comfortable temperatures for 3-4 hour walking tours.
Giant Clam Sanctuary Snorkeling
September's calm lagoon conditions provide perfect access to the world's largest giant clam sanctuary. Over 10,000 clams in crystal-clear shallow waters (2-5m depth) with water temperatures reaching 29°C (84°F). Excellent for underwater photography with natural lighting conditions.
September Events & Festivals
Independence Day Celebrations
October 1st preparations begin in September with traditional dance rehearsals, handicraft exhibitions, and local food festivals throughout Koror. Witness authentic Palauan cultural performances and purchase handmade storyboards directly from artisans.