Palau reefs

Seven Wonders of the Underwater World

Palau is a small Pacific nation whose waters are among the most celebrated for diving. The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with hundreds of limestone islands covered in forest, shelters a maze of channels, lagoons and marine lakes, each with its own mix of life. Outer reef walls drop into blue depths at sites such as Blue Corner, where currents bring sharks, barracuda and large schools of fish, and German Channel, where manta rays visit cleaning stations. Elsewhere, divers explore Second World War wrecks and caves, and snorkellers float in calm lagoons above vivid coral. The best-known marine lake is Ongeim’l Tketau, known as Jellyfish Lake, where millions of non-stinging jellyfish once pulsed beneath the surface; populations have fluctuated sharply with warm-water events, so current conditions should be checked before booking. Palau has taken pioneering conservation steps, including establishing one of the first national shark sanctuaries, and charges an environmental fee to visitors that supports its protected areas. Visitors also take part in the Palau Pledge, a promise to protect the environment signed on arrival. Permits are required for the Rock Islands, available from Koror State or through tour operators, and rules protect reefs and wildlife. The islands are warm year-round, with a drier season from roughly December to April and a wetter season with squalls. Travel is expensive and remote, which keeps crowds modest and rewards slow, respectful travel with certified guides.