How to Spend 8 Nights in Palau

Hidden in the crystal-clear waters of the western Pacific Ocean, Palau is one of the world’s best-kept travel secrets. With its lush limestone islands, rich local culture and otherworldly snorkel and dive sites, Palau promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

While quietly trending on travel hotlists, Palau has remained largely off the tourist radar – but not for much longer. Weekly direct Qantas flights from Brisbane have made travelling to this pristine paradise easier than ever before.

Already planning your trip? Here’s how to spend eight nights in Palau.

Day 1: Welcome to Palau

Touch down in Koror, Palau’s main tourist hub, and your base for the next week. On arrival in Palau, you’ll be asked to sign a passport pledge to act in an ecologically and culturally responsible way on the island, for the sake of Palau’s children and future generations of Palauans – a world-first. Enjoy an included transfer to your chosen resort, and take some time to unwind from your journey. You’ll likely arrive in the mid-afternoon, giving you a chance to get your bearings before the sun goes down – consider visiting the local market for a taste of Palauan cuisine (think fresh seafood and taro) or grab a sunset cocktail from Drop Off Bar & Grill, a favourite haunt amongst tourists and locals alike.

A scenic view of a tropical harbor with yachts, lush green hills, and a hotel along the shoreline under a bright sky.

Day 2: Rock Islands snorkelling safari

Wake up early for a full-day boat tour to the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands Southern Lagoon – a postcard-worthy seascape of limestone islets, hidden lagoons and secret beaches. Most tours include multiple snorkelling stops, typically including Clam City (home to giant clams the size of bathtubs!) and German Channel, where you may be lucky enough to spot manta rays glide gracefully by. The coral gardens in the Rock Islands are amongst the best in the world – colourful, vibrant and teeming with life. Our tip? Pack an underwater camera – you’ll want to remember every moment beneath the surface.

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Day 3: Jellyfish Lake and Milky Way Lagoon

Today is all about surreal, only-in-Palau experiences. First, hit up Jellyfish Lake, where you can snorkel alongside thousands of stingless golden jellyfish. It’s completely safe and, more importantly, completely magical. Later, head to Milky Way Lagoon, a natural spa where the limestone-rich mud is famous for its healing properties. Lather yourself in the white clay, before rinsing off in the warm sea – trust us, your skin will feel softer than ever!

A swimmer explores underwater, with a large jellyfish gracefully drifting nearby in clear blue waters.

Day 4: Local culture tours

Take a break from the water today and dive into local Palauan culture. Visit the Belau National Museum or take a guided tour for a deeper connection to the island’s rich heritage. Choose to visit Airai with a local guide, exploring historic sites, like the Chief’s meeting house and traditional war canoe, followed by a farm-to-table feast that celebrates Palauan culinary traditions. Alternatively, head to Melekeok, Palau’s capital, to walk an ancient jungle path and hear ancestral stories, before learning to make cho-cho, a beloved local snack. Or venture north to Ngaraard, trekking to the island’s only known petroglyph and hearing the romantic legend behind it, followed by a traditional lunch at a scenic beach park – Ask our experts about adding a cultural experience!

A group of women in traditional attire perform a dance in front of a colorful, intricately painted building surrounded by lush greenery.

Day 5: Kayaking and hidden lagoon exploring

Approximately 75% of Palau is covered in native forest and mangroves, and there’s no better way to explore it than via kayak. Today, join a guided kayak tour that will take you through narrow waterways that are unreachable by larger boats. Paddle past ancient caves, jungle-lined coves and even WWII remnants that are hidden in the forest. You may even spot an elusive saltwater crocodile basking in the distance (don’t worry, they’re shy!). Our advice? Wear reef shoes, and bring insect repellent for the mangroves.

Aerial view of serene turquoise waters dotted with lush green islands and three kayakers exploring the tranquil landscape.

Day 6: Ngardmau Waterfall and nature trekking

Palau’s natural beauty extends well beyond their vivid reefs, and today is all about exploring the country’s lush interior. Start your day with a visit to Palau’s largest waterfall, Ngardmau Waterfall. To access these falls, you’ll hike through lush jungle trails, cross freshwater streams and pass ancient stone paths from Palau’s mysterious past. Trust that it’s well worth the trek, as you’ll be rewarded with a stunning cascade and a cool dip in the natural pool below. On your return hike, stop at the Badrulchau Stone Monoliths (regarded as Palau’s very own Stonehenge), which are steeped in island folklore.

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Day 7: Diving or scenic flight

With over 50 named dive sites, Palau is a total diving mecca. If you’re certified, spend today exploring some of the most iconic diving destinations, including Blue Corner, Ulong Channel or the Helmet Wreck. The marine life at each of these are next level – Palau is known as the ‘underwater Serengeti’, after all. Not a diver? No problem. Instead, take a scenic flight over the Rock Islands. From above, you’ll see the spectacular shapes of the islets and vivid blue channels from a whole new, mesmerising perspective. Whether you’re opting for a dive day or a scenic flight, be sure to book these experiences in advance, especially if you’re travelling during peak season.

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Day 8: Rest and relaxation

After a week filled with adventure, today offers a chance to relax and recover. Choose to lounge poolside with a tropical smoothie, indulge in a massage at your resort spa or head out on a gentle nature walk. If you’re still on the hunt for the perfect souvenir, the WCTC Shopping Centre in Koror has plenty of local handicrafts, including handwoven baskets, carved storyboards and locally-made coconut oils. In the evening, farewell the islands over an oceanfront dinner before your flight home in the morning.

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Discover pristine paradise with My Holiday

Whether you’re drawn by Palau’s underwater thrills, cultural treasures or laidback island vibes, this is your chance to explore a destination that feels undiscovered – before the rest of the world catches on.

Make it happen with My Holiday’s exclusive Palau packages, complete with handpicked resorts, return Qantas flights, authentic island experiences and so much more. All there’s left for you to do is pack your swimsuit, snorkel and sense of wonder!

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