Palau Is More Than an Underwater Paradise
Most travelers come to Palau for its legendary diving—but those who explore beyond the ocean quickly discover another side of the country.
On land, Palau reveals over 4,000 years of history, living traditions, sacred architecture, and powerful reminders of war. From ancient stone structures to lush jungles and quiet villages, Palau’s landscapes tell stories that are just as unforgettable as its reefs.
Visit the Historic Airai Bai (Traditional Meeting House)
One of Palau’s oldest community centers, the Airai Bai is the spiritual heart of the region. 
Visitors are welcomed with traditional dances before local experts explain the mythological stories painted across the building’s wooden beams and exterior walls. Every symbol reflects Palauan beliefs, social values, and ancestral wisdom—making this visit a deep dive into the soul of the community.
Badrulchau Stone Monoliths on Babeldaob Island
Hidden within the forests of Babeldaob Island lies Palau’s most ancient archaeological site—the Badrulchau stone monoliths.
Some of these massive stones date back to 161 CE, standing silently with rough-carved human faces etched into their surfaces. Their purpose remains partly mysterious, but walking among them feels like stepping into an unfinished story from Palau’s distant past.
World War II Battlefields and Historical Sites
Palau played a crucial role during World War II, and traces of that history remain across the islands.
Key sites include:
- The Peleliu War Museum
- Former Japanese naval command centers
- Man-made caves and underground bunkers
One vast cave complex once sheltered nearly 1,000 soldiers, its interior forming a maze of tunnels and chambers. These sites are haunting, emotional, and deeply meaningful reminders of the cost of war.
Cycling and Hiking on Peleliu Island
Exploring Peleliu Island by bicycle or on foot offers a powerful contrast.
What was once one of the Pacific’s bloodiest battlefields is now quiet and green. As you move through jungles and villages, WWII bunkers, artillery positions, and hidden caves appear unexpectedly—history woven gently into nature.
Ngardmau Waterfall Trek & Jungle Swim
A 30–40 minute hike through dense tropical rainforest leads to Ngardmau Falls, the largest waterfall in Palau.
Here, you can swim in a natural pool beneath cascading water or relax during a picnic prepared beside the falls. It’s an immersive jungle experience—cool, refreshing, and unforgettable.
Explore the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon (UNESCO Site)
The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, made up of hundreds of limestone islets covered in dense greenery.
Surrounded by pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear lagoons, this area offers gentle land-and-water adventures, including:
- Kayaking through calm channels
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- A visit to Milk Lake, where mineral-rich white mud is used for natural skin treatments
Birdwatching in Palau’s Tropical Forests
Palau is a paradise for bird lovers, home to 185 bird species, many found nowhere else.
Travel by speedboat with binoculars and a local guide, listening to jungle calls and spotting colorful species along the shorelines and forest canopies. Highlights include Palau’s national bird, the Palau fruit dove.
Every wingbeat feels like a discovery.
Sunset Sea Fishing & Traditional Techniques
As the sun sinks into the Pacific, try your hand at sea fishing in golden light.
Beyond modern fishing methods, you can also experience traditional Palauan handline fishing, learning techniques passed down through generations—simple, skillful, and deeply connected to the ocean.
Palau: Where Land, Sea, and Story Meet
Palau’s magic doesn’t stop at the shoreline.
Its land offers history, culture, adventure, and quiet beauty—revealing a destination that rewards curiosity and deeper exploration. For travelers willing to look beyond the water, Palau becomes not just a place to visit, but a place to understand.
