23 Unmissable Things to See and Do in Palau, Micronesia

Palau is one of those destinations that doesn’t just live up to the hype... it rewrites what you thought tropical travel could be. Remote, raw, and wildly beautiful, it’s a place where emerald islands rise out of electric-blue water, WWII history sits alongside ancient culture, and nature is protected.

Palau is a small island nation in Micronesia that consistently ranks as one of the world’s top destinations for nature, diving, and conservation-led travel... yet it still flies under the radar for many travellers.

When I first started planning Palau, I realised very quickly that this wasn’t a “turn up and wing it” kind of destination. It rewards curiosity, preparation, and travellers who want more than just pretty beaches.

In this episode, I’m sharing 23 unmissable things to see and do in Palau, based on first-hand experience... from kayaking through hidden lagoons and swimming with sharks, to ancient stone monoliths, waterfalls, cultural sites, and moments that genuinely stopped me in my tracks.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why Palau feels so different to other tropical destinations

• The absolute must-see experiences (and what you can skip)

• How to explore the Rock Islands by boat, kayak, and even from the air

• Where Palau’s WWII history comes to life

• What surprised me most about travelling around Palau

• Practical tips for tours, permits, transport, and planning

• Who Palau is best suited for - and who it might not be right for

Destinations & Experiences Covered in This Episode

• Rock Islands 

• Badrulchau Stone Monoliths 

• Airai Bai

• Scenic Flight Over Palau 

• Overnight Kayaking with Paddling Palau 

• Peleliu Island 

• Natural Arch 

• Ngardmau Waterfall 

• Palau National Capitol 

• Kuabes Park 

• Japanese WWII Lighthouse 

• Belau National Museum 

• Palau International Coral Reef Center 

• Milky Way Lagoon 

• Mesekelat Waterfall

• Shark City 

• Clam City 

• Jellyfish Lake 

• Blue Corner 

• German Channel

• Carp Island

• Etpison Museum

• Traditional Sailing Tour

Helpful Resources & Links

• Free Resource: Palau Destination Guide, a practical planning guide with packing lists, activities, tours, accommodation, logistics tips, and adventure ideas beyond diving... perfect if Palau’s on your bucket list.

• Podcast Episode: Kayaking the Rock Islands of Palau 

If Palau is on your radar, grab my free Palau Destination Guide... it’ll help you plan smarter, pack better, and feel confident booking experiences like these.

Connect & Explore

Find destination guides, travel planning resources and more at touristtotraveller.com, and follow along on Instagram @_touristtotraveller for behind-the-scenes planning and future travel inspiration.