Our general manager recently left his desk behind to do what many of our head office staff don’t seem to do enough: dive from one of our boats. In this case, Palau Siren. Read on to find out what he thought of Palau: a divers paradise… revisited.
After nearly five years, I finally had the chance to revisit what is possibly my favourite dive destination that we offer, Palau: a divers paradise. This remote paradise, situated just over 900 miles from the east coast of the Philippines, is a haven for divers. Comprising 340 islands spread over 193 square miles of azure blue waters, crisp white beaches, and lush green tropical landscapes, Palau is undoubtedly home to some of the best tropical diving in the world.
Getting to Palau: Easier Than Ever
I travel from Thailand and the route to Palau is surprisingly simple. I flew from Bangkok to Taipei with Eva Airlines, then onward to Koror with China Airlines. The total cost was around $800 USD, which is quite reasonable considering the destination. China Airlines now connects Palau to Europe and parts of the US with just one connection, making the islands more accessible than ever before.
Diving in Palau: Consider the Low Season
Traditionally, Palau’s diving season is considered to be at its peak from December to April, during the dry season. However, this trip marked my second time diving in Palau during the low season—first in July and now in August. While it does rain, as you’d expect in any equatorial region, the benefits of diving during this time far outweigh the occasional shower.
One of the standout advantages of visiting in the low season is the opportunity to have dive sites virtually to yourself. During the high season, it’s not uncommon to find 10-15 skiffs surrounding you at popular spots like Blue Corner. But this August, every dive felt exclusive, as though nature had staged a private show just for us. Not to mention, the airfare deals are unbeatable, the planes are less crowded, and prices are far more reasonable. If you’re planning a trip to Palau, don’t overlook the low season.
Palau Dive Sites That Left a Mark
While I genuinely love all the dive sites in Palau, there are a few that stand out as truly exceptional in my mind: Ulong Channel, Orange Beach, Blue Corner, and Chandelier Cave.
Ulong Channel
Best dived on the incoming tide, Ulong Channel is nothing short of magical. The dive begins with a hook-on at the mouth of the channel, where you can watch groups of grey reef sharks glide effortlessly through the current.
As you unhook and drift into the channel, you’ll witness a vast section of cabbage coral, estimated to be over 2,000 years old—an ancient, living marvel.
Orange Beach
This was my first time diving Orange Beach, located on the western side of Peleliu Island. It’s a site steeped in history, as one of the beaches used by US Marines during WWII. The entire dive is dotted with remnants of the past—bullets, landing craft wreckage, tanks, guns, and larger ammunition, all now encrusted with stunning hard coral formations. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot the elegant silhouette of a silver tip shark cruising by from the deep blue.
Blue Corner
We dived Blue Corner four times on this trip, and it’s easy to see why. This site isn’t just good—it’s world-class. Blue Corner is a large buttress that juts out into the open ocean, where nutrient-rich waters from the abyssal plains bring a wealth of marine life. On one dive alone, we counted over 30 grey reef sharks, along with white tips, massive schools of big-eyed jacks, and the sleek, predatory shapes of Spanish mackerel. It’s an exhilarating dive, the only thing missing is David Attenborough narrating the spectacle.
Chandelier Cave
Often reserved as the last dive of the trip, Chandelier Cave might seem an unusual choice—why dive so close to the harbour? But this site is a hidden gem, featuring a stunning formation of four chambers with beautiful stalactite formations and air pockets that allow you to surface and marvel at the geological wonders within.
At the entrance to the cave, you’ll also find the psychedelic mandarin fish, a fitting finale to an incredible diving adventure.
Palau: A divers Paradise – Put It On Your Bucket List
Palau is as accessible as it has ever been, with convenient flights from Europe via Taipei with China Airlines. Whether you’re a history buff, a pelagic enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of stunning corals, Palau has something to offer. And don’t count out the low season—it can provide you with affordable airfare and dive sites that feel like they’re yours alone.
If you’re searching for a destination that combines world-class diving, rich history, and natural beauty, look no further than Palau.
