Learn to Dive in Palau Palau’s Highlights Located in the coral triangle, Palau has over 700 species of hard and soft coral. It features WWII wrecks, adventurous drift dives, caves and caverns. The Japanese and Americans fought many battles in these waters so divers can now immerse themselves and uncover the history beneath. Palau was one of the Japanese safe-holds during the war including fighter planes and has some truly interesting wrecks to explore. Diving in Palau gives you the chance to dive with large pelagic marine animals like swordfish, sharks and manta rays. Three major currents converge in the water around Palau presenting conditions that aid with biodiversity. Drift dives are extremely common and the use of reef hooks is popular. Use a hook to cling onto dead parts of coral. This will allow you to remain in place as you watch large pelagic life swim past. Some dive sites are restricted to experienced divers due to strong currents. Liveaboards give you the greatest chance of visiting the most sites but dive resorts and centers are also plentiful. When is the best time to go diving in Palau? Diving in Palau is possible at any time of year. The dry season from October to May has the calmest conditions and best visibility. Water Temperature: The water is constantly warm ranging from 27°C to 30°C all year-round. Currents: None to very strong Visibility: Between 20 to 30 meters usually and it can reach up to 50 meters. Palau’s best dive sites Blue Corner If you’re thinking about going to Palau for diving, you’re most likely going for the opportunity to go to Blue Corner. Palau’s most famous dive site is a coral ridge that lies between 15 and 20 meters, but extends to the deep. Use a reef hook to remain in place as you watch big schools of fish swim below including snappers, Jacks, barracuda, tuna and triggerfish. There are plenty of sharks and mantas, too! Currents can change quickly and without warning. When there is no current even inexperienced divers will enjoy this coral ridge. Chandelier Caves A short swim through a tunnel leads to a set of 5 limestone caves connected by a series of tunnels that lie at a maximum depth of 11 meters. Divers need torches to view the wondrous stalactites and stalagmites, which sparkle giving the dive site its name. Divers can surface in several of these caves to enjoy the view. The Big Drop Off True to its name, The Big Drop Off is a wall dive that drops to 285 meters. Considered as one of the world’s best wall dives. An abundance of coral, tropical fish and sharks call it their home. It’s a one-way drift dive sure to show you something different each time. About the country Palau is made up of over 250 islands. It was the first country to declare all its waters a marine reserve. It boasts the best biodiversity and coral in Micronesia. Bird-watching is also extremely popular. During WWII, Palau was occupied by Japan. In 1944, the Battle of Peleliu saw the US take back Palau from Japan. Life in Palau is serene. Beautiful beaches, coastal walks, and exquisite kayak rides await avid travelers. Kayaking is the perfect way to explore the waters around Palau. Mangrove forests, beaches, lakes and saltwater networks are fascinating to uncover. Getting to Palau Palau is remote and difficult to access. To get to Palau from the US, China or Japan most flights stop in Guam on their way to Palau. Those living in Europe, Asia and Australia can transfer through Manila or Incheon which have direct flights. Car is the easiest way to get around Palau.