Best Places to Visit in Palau in March

Summary: Palau is a prime destination in March for divers and snorkellers seeking the calmest conditions for exploring the archipelago’s marine life. Koror serves as the essential base for boat excursions to the Rock Islands, while Peleliu offers historical exploration and Angaur provides a secluded retreat during this period of stable, lighter winds.

Our Hidden Earth maps 300,000+ verified hidden gems across 230 countries. Open the map to find the quiet places near the ones below.

Palau in March: at a glance

• Koror: The central hub for arranging boat expeditions to the surrounding limestone islets and reef systems.

• The Rock Islands: A protected marine area ideal for quiet observation of jellyfish lakes and lively coral slopes.

• Peleliu: A location for those prioritising a mix of maritime history and significant geological formations.

• Angaur: A remote destination for travellers seeking solitude and natural landscapes away from the primary tourist routes.

Is March a good time to visit Palau?

March is consistently one of the most reliable months for visiting Palau due to the decline of stronger trade winds that can occasionally affect boat travel during the winter. This stability allows for smoother transit between the islands and improves visibility within the water, making it a preferred time for those focused on aquatic exploration.

Visitors who prioritise underwater visibility and calm sea states will find the conditions well-suited to their needs. While the islands remain accessible year-round, the transition into this quieter weather pattern allows for more consistent access to remote dive sites and outer reef edges.

Weather in Palau in March

Palau experiences a tropical climate throughout the year, but March is characterised by a noticeable reduction in the strength and frequency of winds. The air remains warm and humid, typical of this latitude, with a mix of sun and short, intense showers that rarely persist for long.

Sea conditions are generally calm, which is the most significant factor for visitors planning to spend a large portion of their trip on the water. While tropical weather can be unpredictable, March provides a stable window where the sea surface is often tranquil enough to reach distant locations that might be more challenging to access at other times.

Best places to visit in Palau in March

1. Koror

Koror acts as the primary gateway to the rest of the archipelago and is the place to organise logistics for any island-hopping trip. It serves as the administrative and commercial centre, housing the National Museum where the history of the Palauan people and their complex social structures are documented.

Beyond the town centre, the harbour is the point of departure for all boat excursions into the Rock Islands. Spending time here allows for a full immersion in local culture, with access to marketplaces and galleries that highlight traditional woodcarving.

It is the most practical base for anyone who needs to coordinate daily boat charters or seek information on the varying protected areas of the southern lagoon.

2. The Rock Islands

The Rock Islands are a collection of hundreds of limestone outcrops covered in dense tropical forest. Their appeal in March lies in the crystalline water that surrounds them, providing exceptional clarity for snorkelling.

Many of these islands are hollowed out, featuring lagoons that host unique marine environments, including populations of non-stinging golden jellyfish. Exploring these requires permits and, in many cases, guided access to ensure the protection of the fragile ecosystem.

The geography here is a labyrinth of turquoise channels and hidden sandy coves. It is the core of the Palauan experience, best suited for those who intend to spend their days on the water observing the coral gardens that define the reef shelf.

3. Peleliu

Peleliu is located to the south of the main archipelago and holds a distinct history linked to the mid-twentieth century. The landscape is a mix of dense forest, rugged cave systems, and preserved sites that offer an insight into the events that took place on the island.

For visitors, the appeal is twofold: the chance to see historical remnants integrated into the jungle landscape and the opportunity to access some of the most dramatic deep-water drop-offs in the Pacific. Because the currents around the southern tip of the island can be strong, it is a destination favoured by those with experience in open-ocean conditions, though the island also offers quiet trails for those focused on land-based exploration.

4. Angaur

Angaur sits isolated to the south of Peleliu and offers a different pace of life compared to the more frequently visited northern islands. It is a place for those looking to experience a quieter side of the country, where the infrastructure is minimal and the focus is on natural surroundings.

The island features unique geological characteristics, including freshwater pools and rocky coastlines that are starkly different from the protected lagoons of the Rock Islands. March provides an accessible window to reach this remote outpost by small boat, though travellers should be prepared for a journey that requires careful planning.

It is a destination for the independent traveller who prefers solitude over established tourist amenities.

5. Babeldaob

Babeldaob is the largest island in the country and presents a landscape defined by rolling hills, hidden waterfalls, and vast mangrove forests. Unlike the concentrated tourist areas around Koror, this island offers a look at the rural life of Palau.

Visitors can explore the ancient stone monoliths at Badrulchau, which provide an archaeological perspective on the island's pre-colonial past. The interior is largely undeveloped, featuring hiking paths that lead to secluded river cascades.

It is an excellent choice for those who want to balance their time on the water with land-based exploration, providing a sense of scale and natural beauty that the smaller limestone islands lack.

6. Ngardmau

Situated on the western side of Babeldaob, Ngardmau is known for its access to the country's highest waterfall. The trek through the forest and along the riverbeds provides a stark contrast to the marine-focused activities found elsewhere.

The terrain here can be slippery, and the environment is lush and humid, demanding appropriate footwear for the walk. The waterfall itself is a powerful display of the island's interior topography.

Visiting in March allows for a clear path through the forest, as the ground is generally drier than during the peak of the monsoon months. It is an ideal addition for anyone visiting Babeldaob who wants to experience the island’s varied vegetation and river systems.

7. Melekeok

Melekeok is located on the eastern coast of Babeldaob and serves as the state capital. It is home to the Capitol building, a structure that stands in clear contrast to the surrounding natural environment.

While it is a place of government, it also provides access to Lake Ngardok, the largest freshwater body in the country. This lake is a sanctuary for local bird life and a protected area that offers a quiet environment for those interested in natural history.

The surrounding forests are well-maintained, and the area feels vastly different from the maritime bustle of Koror. It is best suited for those interested in the political geography of the nation and the preservation of its freshwater ecosystems.

8. Ngeremlengui

Ngeremlengui offers a deep look into the traditional communal structures of Palau through its well-preserved historical sites. The region is known for its ancient stone platforms and pathways that suggest a sophisticated level of early architectural planning.

It is a quiet, contemplative area that is often overlooked by those rushing between dive sites. March provides comfortable conditions for wandering through these archeological remains at a steady pace.

This destination is ideal for history enthusiasts who want to understand the cultural context of the islands beyond the recent maritime history of the southern regions.

9. Kayangel Atoll

Kayangel is the northernmost state in the country and functions as a traditional coral atoll. It is significantly removed from the main island chains and requires a longer boat transit, which is best attempted during the calm weather of March.

The appeal here is the true isolation and the pristine state of the white sand beaches and inner lagoon. Unlike the vertical limestone islands to the south, Kayangel is flat and surrounded by a vast reef.

It is a destination for those who want to experience a more traditional, subsistence-based island life, provided they are comfortable with the limited logistics and slower travel pace required to reach such a remote spot.

10. Aimeliik

Aimeliik, on the southwest coast of Babeldaob, is a region that combines historical significance with natural landscapes. It features some of the oldest stone terraces in the country, which offer insights into early land use and agricultural practices.

The area also hosts the remains of historic structures that provide a layer of cultural depth to the scenery. Walking through the hills here reveals the extent of early Palauan society's ability to reshape their environment.

It is a choice for those who wish to spend their time exploring the historical legacy of the main island in a setting that remains largely untouched by modern development.

Planning and packing for March

For most travellers, Koror is the only logical base, as it provides the necessary infrastructure to reach both the Rock Islands and the different states of Babeldaob. If your goal is deep-sea diving or snorkelling, base yourself near the marina to reduce transit time to the boats.

When packing, prioritise quick-drying synthetic clothing and UV-protective gear, as the tropical sun is powerful regardless of the cloud cover. Ensure you have sturdy, grippy footwear for walking through jungle trails or around historical stone sites, and bring reliable waterproof storage for any sensitive equipment during boat transfers.

A reusable water bottle is essential, as is a high-factor sunscreen that is safe for marine environments.

Frequently asked questions

Is the sea calm enough for boat travel in March?

March is one of the most favourable months for boat travel in Palau. The trade winds are typically lighter, resulting in less choppy seas compared to the winter months, which makes reaching the more distant Rock Islands or remote outer atolls a significantly more comfortable experience.

Do I need to be an expert swimmer to visit the Rock Islands?

While you do not need to be an expert, a high level of comfort in the water is necessary. Many of the most rewarding sights are accessed by swimming from a boat to a reef edge. Life jackets are usually provided, and guides are always on hand to assist with safety.

Are the historical sites on Babeldaob open to the public?

Most historical and archaeological sites on Babeldaob are accessible to visitors without restrictive entry requirements. However, some areas are on communal or private land, so it is respectful and often necessary to check with local state offices or your guide before heading to remote locations.

Is it possible to visit the remote islands like Angaur in a day?

Reaching Angaur from Koror is a significant journey. While it is technically possible for a day trip, it consumes a large amount of time in transit. It is better to treat the remote islands as separate overnight stays if you wish to explore them properly without exhaustion.

Should I focus on diving or land-based exploring?

This depends on your preference. Palau’s primary global reputation is its marine life. If you are not a diver, you will still find plenty to do, but you will miss the primary draw. Conversely, Babeldaob offers excellent land-based history and hiking for those who prefer to remain dry.

What is the benefit of visiting in March versus later in the year?

The primary benefit of March is the combination of stable, lighter winds and relatively consistent weather. Later in the year can bring higher humidity and, occasionally, less predictable sea conditions that may affect the ease of accessing certain remote reefs or lagoons.

Are there many crowds in the popular spots during March?

Palau does not experience the mass tourism seen in other parts of the Pacific. While the most famous spots, such as the Jellyfish Lake or iconic reef drop-offs, will have other boats present, it is rarely crowded in a way that prevents an enjoyable experience.

Do I need to carry local currency for all my trips?

Yes, having cash in the local currency is essential for paying entrance fees to state-protected areas and for small purchases in villages on Babeldaob. Larger operators in Koror will take cards, but it is not a reliable assumption for every remote excursion.

Final thoughts

Choose Koror as your base if you intend to spend the majority of your time snorkelling or diving, as it provides the most direct access to the water. If you prefer to combine your time on the water with land-based exploration of ancient history and forests, spend half your time in Koror and half in a rural state on Babeldaob to fully experience the diversity of the archipelago.

Weather, opening times and transport details in this guide were correct as far as we could check. Always confirm directly before you travel.

Planning a March trip? The Our Hidden Earth map has 300,000+ verified hidden gems across 230 countries. Find the quiet places near wherever you are heading.

More guides to Palau.