Share The LOVE Why Make Palau Your Next Scuba Destination? Palau is widely regarded as one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world, and for a good reason. It is one of my favourites and sometimes feels like a best-kept secret destination. Here are some reasons why you should consider scuba diving in Palau. Biodiversity Palau’s waters are home to a remarkable variety of marine life, including more than 1,500 species of fish and over 700 species of coral. You’ll have the chance to see everything from colourful reef fish to larger pelagic species. Some of the most iconic fish species you can see scuba diving in Palau include extraordinary encounters with Napoleon Wrasse, reef sharks, manta rays, whale sharks, bumphead parrotfish, sea turtles and giant clams. These are just a few examples of the many fish species and other marine life you experience scuba diving in Palau. The biodiversity and abundance of fish species in Palau’s waters are stunning. Not only this, but Palau also bears witness to some amazing spawning events that take place on the new and full moon. You can read more about that here. Pristine Reefs Palau’s reefs are simply beautiful. They are characterized by their vibrant colours, the diversity of coral species, and the wide variety of marine life they support. Some of the reasons why Palau’s reefs are so unique include: Healthy Coral: The reefs here are known for their healthy coral, a critical part of the marine ecosystem. The coral provides a habitat for many different types of marine life, including fish, crabs, lobsters, and other invertebrates. Pristine Condition: Palau’s reefs are largely untouched by human activity, which means they are in excellent condition. This is thanks to the country’s proactive approach to marine conservation, which includes strict regulations on fishing and other activities that could damage the reefs. Scenic Beauty: Unlike many things today, they are known for their beauty, with a kaleidoscope of colours and intricate formations. This makes diving in Palau an unforgettable experience, as divers can explore a world quite unlike anything they may have seen before. Palau’s immaculate reefs testify to the country’s commitment to marine conservation and preservation. By preserving these reefs, Palau protects its unique marine ecosystem and creates a sustainable tourism industry that supports the local economy. World War II Wrecks Palau is home to many World War II wrecks and popular dive sites for scuba divers worldwide. Some cool things about Palau’s World War II wrecks: Historical Significance: Palau was the site of a significant battle during World War II, and many of the wrecks in its waters are remnants. These wrecks are a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war, and they provide a unique opportunity for divers to explore a piece of history. Diverse Wrecks: Wrecks found while scuba diving in Palau’s waters range from small aeroplanes to large battleships. Some of the most famous wrecks include the Iro Maru, a Japanese freighter sunk during the war, and the USS Perry, a US Navy destroyer sunk by a Japanese torpedo. Marine Life: Many of the wrecks in Palau’s waters have become artificial reefs, providing a habitat for diverse marine life. Divers can expect to see a variety of fish and invertebrates living in and around the wrecks, including schools of colourful fish and large pelagic species like sharks and rays. Technical Diving: Some of the wrecks in Palau’s waters are deep and require technical diving skills to explore. This makes Palau a popular destination for advanced divers looking for a unique and challenging diving experience. Preservation: The Palau government has taken steps to preserve its World War II wrecks, with regulations to protect them and the marine life that has made them their home. This helps ensure that future generations of divers can continue exploring these historic sites and appreciate the unique underwater world they offer. Palau’s World War II wrecks provide a fascinating glimpse into the past while offering divers the chance to see various marine life and experience the thrill of exploring historic shipwrecks. Jellyfish Lake Palau is home to an incredible natural wonder known as Jellyfish Lake. Here, you can snorkel among thousands of non-stinging jellyfish that have evolved in isolation and no longer have the ability to sting. Location: Jellyfish Lake is on Eil Malk Island in Palau, a saltwater lake connected to the ocean via underground tunnels. It is a popular destination for snorkelers and divers who want to experience the lake’s unique ecosystem. Jellyfish: The lake is home to millions of jellyfish, including the golden jellyfish found only in this lake. These jellyfish have evolved to no longer sting due to the lack of predators in the lake, so you can swim among them without fear of being stung. Conservation: Palau has taken steps to protect Jellyfish Lake and its unique ecosystem. Visitors must follow strict guidelines, including showering before entering the lake to avoid introducing foreign substances and wearing only biodegradable sunscreen to prevent pollution. Experience: Snorkelling in Jellyfish Lake is a very unique experience; as you swim in the clear, calm waters of the lake, the jellyfish can be seen in large numbers, pulsating through the water in a mesmerizing display. Accessibility: Jellyfish Lake is accessible to many visitors, including non-certified scuba divers. Snorkelling in the lake is relatively easy, and visitors can book guided tours that will take them to the lake and provide all necessary equipment. Jellyfish Lake is a must-see destination in Palau for anyone interested in experiencing the breadth of unique and fascinating ecosystems found in the marine world. Unique Underwater Topography Scuba diving Palau’s underwater landscape is characterized by dramatic drop-offs, sheer walls, and labyrinthine canyons, making for some genuinely unforgettable diving experiences. Rock Islands: One of the most distinctive features of Palau’s underwater landscape is the Rock Islands, a collection of over 400 limestone islands that dot the waters. These islands provide a stunning backdrop for diving and snorkelling and are home to a wide variety of marine life. Walls and Drop-offs: Palau is also known for its dramatic walls and drop-offs, which can be found at many dive sites throughout the archipelago. These underwater formations provide an exciting diving experience, as you can dive along steep walls covered in life, while surveying the blue for pelagics. Blue Holes: This destination is home to several blue holes, underwater sinkholes that open at the surface. These blue holes provide a unique diving experience, as you can swim into the hole’s depths and witness extraordinary marine life that calls the place home. Caves and Tunnels: Palau is also known for its underwater caves and tunnels, such as Siaes tunnel, and are popular attractions for advanced divers. These underwater formations provide a unique and challenging diving experience, as divers must navigate through narrow passageways to explore the dark recesses of the caves. Underwater Topography: The unique underwater topography has created a diverse array of habitats for marine life, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. As a result, Palau is home to a huge variety of fish and invertebrates, including many rare and endemic species. Go Scuba Dive Palau Palau offers a scuba diving experience with unparalleled biodiversity, incredible natural wonders, and abundant dive sites. This Micronesian Gem should be on your where-to-go scuba diving next list. Get in touch with any questions about scuba diving in Palau. Written By: Brett Robertson (Diver and Vegan) PADI Platinum Course Director | Dive educator | Dive resort and liveaboard owner | Vegan advocate for conservation projects and plant-based lifestyles, and a burgeoning serial runner. See author's posts
