Here's Where to Go Diving in Palau

Many may known Palau for its pristine beaches, but did you know that it is also one of the go-to places in the world for divers?

In fact, Palau is home to over named 50 dive sites. It is also home to over 50 wrecks, including those from World War II. This includes the famous Jake Seaplane wreck, which was found by a fisherman in 1994.

Jake Seaplane Wreck, Palau — Milos Prelevic on Unsplash

Aside from these wrecks, 400 identified reef-building coral species and at least 1,450 species of fish call Palau home.

Here are some of the dive sites you must definitely explore when in Palau.

Big Drop Off

Head to Ngemelis Island if you want to dive at the Big Drop Off, a sheer veritical wall that drops down to around 275 meters (900 feet). Should you decide to make the dive, you will greeted with some of the most colorful marine life you'll ever see.

As there are moderate currents in the area (at times, there are no currents at all), this dive site is best for novice divers.

Blue Corner

Called one of the best dives in the planet, Blue Corner is known for its rapidly changing currents that bring different species of fish, sharks, and turtles to the area. In fact, multiple of schools of fish gravitate to the area, which in turn leads to predators heading their way as well.

This dive site can be paired with another dive site located in its northern part, which is known as the Blue Holes.

Blue Holes

The Blue Holes is an ampitheater-sized cavern meant for beginner to intermediate divers. If you're interested to dive here, make sure first that you are comfortable with overhead environments.

There are two exits you can find, and one of them leads to a cave known as the Temple of Doom. If you're wondering why this cave is named this way, it is because it's best to keep out of it unless you are a certified cave diver with the right gear and equipment.

Turtle Cove

Beginner divers will definitely enjoy Turtle Cove, which has a maximum depth of 30 meters (90 feet). It got its name from the marine turtles, which used to lay and hatch their eggs on the beach of Ngercheu Island. Ngercheu Island where you can find Turtle Cove.

While you may not be able to find turtles during your dive, you will still find a wide array of marine life. If you're looking for sharks in particular, you can find Grey Reef Sharks, White Tip Sharks, and Leopard Sharks in the area.