Hey fellow scuba divers! If you’re looking for a destination that’s teeming with marine life, look no further than
Palau. This small archipelago in the Pacific Ocean is a haven for divers, with its clear waters, lively coral reefs, and
incredible array of marine species.
Get Ready for Manta Ray Encounters

One of the highlights of diving in Palau is the opportunity to encounter majestic manta rays. These gentle giants
can be found gliding through the waters, feeding on nutrients and getting cleaned by smaller fish. German
Channel is a hotspot for manta ray sightings, and it’s not uncommon to see these incredible creatures up close.
Sharks Galore!
Palau is a shark lover’s paradise, with over 350 species of sharks at home in these waters. From blacktip-,
whitetip-, and grey reef sharks, and even occasional hammerheads, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot
these fascinating creatures. And don’t worry, Palau is a shark sanctuary, so you can rest assured that these
amazing animals are protected.
More Than Just Sharks and Rays
But Palau’s marine life isn’t just limited to sharks and rays. You’ll also spot sea turtles gliding through the waters,
and giant clams that can weigh over 400 pounds! And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a dugong
or a whale shark.
Dive Sites Galore
Palau has some of the most incredible dive sites in the world, including:

- Blue Corner: A drift dive site that’s known for its strong currents, huge schools of fish and masses of grey reef
sharks. - German Channel: A hotspot for manta ray sightings, where these gentle giants gather to feed and get cleaned.
- Ulong Channel: A drift dive site that’s known for its shark sightings, including blacktip reef sharks and whitetip
reef sharks. - Peleliu Wall: This is where you can find some of world war II wrecks, and it’s also known for its strong currents
and abundant marine life, including grey and whitetip reef sharks.
Conservation Efforts
Palau is committed to protecting its marine biodiversity, and it’s made some amazing strides in conservation. The
Palau National Marine Sanctuary Act protects 80% of Palau’s maritime territory, making it one of the largest
marine protected areas in the world. And with its shark sanctuary, Palau is providing a safe haven for these
incredible animals.
Tips for Divers
- How to Dive: To dive the best sites around the Rock Islands as well as Peleliu in the south, the most time friendly way is my Palau liveaboard.
- Best Time to Dive: Palau’s warm waters offer excellent diving conditions year-round, with temperatures ranging
from 26°C to 30°C. - Visibility: The crystalline waters offer excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 meters.
- Reef Hooks: These are essential for diving in Palau, allowing you to conserve energy and avoid damaging the
coral reefs
Tips for Non-divers
Even if you’re not a diver, Palau offers unforgettable experiences especially for snorkelers! One must-see spot is the iconic Jellyfish Lake, located on Eil Malk Island within the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon.
This marine lake is home to millions of harmless golden jellyfish that migrate across the water daily, offering a surreal and gentle snorkeling experience like no other in the world.
To sum it up, Palau is a true paradise for marine life enthusiasts, with its stunning coral reefs, vibrant marine life,
and commitment to conservation. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting out, Palau’s warm waters and
incredible marine life will leave you in awe. So pack your dive gear and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in
Palau!