Beyond the reef: Why Palau is more than just scuba diving

(Photo courtesy of Fish n Fins)

What makes Palau truly unique?

It’s not just the stunning diversity of its underwater ecosystem; it’s the deep commitment to preserving this natural wonder. Palau leads globally in conservation, driven by a government that places nature at the heart of its policies. This is not a place for mass tourism, but rather for sustainable experiences. Back in 2009, Palau created the world’s first shark sanctuary—larger than France—banning commercial shark hunting and exploitation, providing a safe haven for these incredible creatures.

And that was only the beginning. In 2015, one of the world’s largest marine sanctuaries was established, covering 80% of Palau’s waters and forbidding everything from fishing to oil drilling. Sound impressive? It absolutely is—and it’s only a hint of what Palau stands for.

Then came the “Palau Pledge” in 2017, the world’s first mandatory eco-pledge, stamped right into the passports of visitors. It states: Respect this environment for the children of Palau. With nearly 6,000 signatures in the first two weeks, the message was clear. Even harmful sunscreen has been banned to protect the reefs. By 2020, Palau joined the Ocean Panel with an ambitious target: the sustainable use of 100% of its national waters by 2025.

And as if that wasn’t enough, Palau offers year-round warm, tropical weather—no heavy monsoon season or intense dry spells, just consistent, welcoming conditions. This makes Palau the perfect destination whenever you’re ready to embark on your next adventure. Thanks to the National Marine Sanctuary and all these conservation efforts, Palau remains one of the world’s top three diving destinations. Dramatic walls, colorful reefs, and dive sites for every skill level guarantee that each dive is unforgettable.

Ocean Hunter Liveaboard: Tailor-made adventures at sea

(Photo courtesy of Fish n Fins)

The Ocean Hunter Liveaboard places a high value on personalized diving experiences. With a maximum of just 16 guests on board, each diver receives a day tailored to their preferences. Picture waking up to the fresh ocean breeze, ready to embark on a day of diving at your own pace. Whether you want to explore vibrant reefs teeming with macro life or glide along steep walls alongside schools of fish, manta rays, and sharks—every trip is designed to cater to your wishes, ensuring a unique experience.

Carlos from Münster, Germany, one of Ocean Hunter’s long-time guests, shares his story:

“From the very first dive, I was captivated by Ocean Hunter, but one dive stands out above all others—the spawning of the red snapper. A few days before the new moon, just after sunrise, we jumped into the water, the tension was palpable. Our guide pointed out a massive school of fish slowly rising from the depths of the open ocean to the surface. We floated in between as smaller groups shot up to the surface to spawn. Meanwhile, oceanic sharks cut through the scene, always on the lookout for an inattentive fish to make their breakfast. The energy in the water was electric. As the snappers released their eggs and sperm, sharks circled, catching an easy meal. But that was only part of the experience—in between dives, we were spoiled with excellent cuisine, a perfect mix of local flavors and international classics. The crew, the food, the organization—it was all perfect. That’s why I keep coming back.”

One major advantage of Ocean Hunter is the quick access to the best dive sites in Palau. Thanks to the close anchoring locations, many of the best sites are only minutes away. This includes vibrant reefs, World War II wrecks, and nearly untouched underwater caves. With no need to return to the island daily, we often reach the best spots under ideal conditions, enjoying them long after other boats have headed home.

Fish ’n Fins: Deep roots, local expertise

Fish ’n Fins has been a cornerstone of Palau’s diving community for decades, combining in-depth local knowledge, reliability, and a strong connection to the ocean. As Palau’s premier diving and adventure center, Fish ‘n Fins also offers complete hotel and dive packages. They pride themselves on an impeccable track record—over 30 years without a single boat trip canceled due to technical issues. If you want the best diving experience in Palau, that’s a solid bet for your hard-earned vacation funds!

As a 5-star PADI IDC Center, Fish ’n Fins is all about personal service—it’s at the core of their philosophy. Beyond daily dives, they host two major annual events: the WREXPEDITION and SHARK WEEK.

Matt and Tammy from California, two enthusiastic customers, share their experience:

“We booked the complete package with Fish ’n Fins—hotel, diving, and tours—because we wanted to experience everything Palau has to offer. We didn’t just want to dive; we wanted to dine at the best restaurants in Koror and explore the islands. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Fish ’n Fins took care of everything, and we could just enjoy.”

Stress-free diving vacations are the focus here, tailored to the needs of every diver—whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting out. The team at Fish ’n Fins ensures your stay in Palau runs smoothly, allowing you to focus less on logistics and more on the beauty of the ocean. Every detail is crafted for quality, ensuring your time in Palau is unforgettable.

Choosing Fish ’n Fins means opting for an established, trusted operator that knows Palau inside out. Their combination of local knowledge, deep community roots, and uncompromising dedication to guest satisfaction ensures that every dive is an unforgettable journey into one of the world’s most spectacular marine environments.

WREXPEDITION: Up close with World War II relics

(Photo courtesy of Fish n Fins)

Grab your fins and dive into history! The 14th annual WREXPEDITION PALAU, taking place from June 4 to June 11, 2025, invites you to explore 14 of the most significant World War II wrecks in Palau. It’s 15 exhilarating dives spread across a week—three action-packed dives a day. And when the day comes to an end, the Barracuda Restaurant awaits, where you can immerse yourself further in the stories behind the wrecks and Palau’s fascinating history over a delicious meal and some drinks.

This event is perfect for wreck diving enthusiasts who want to blend their passion for history with a hefty dose of adventure. From sunken supply ships to old military planes, the wrecks lie at depths accessible to divers of all experience levels. WREXPEDITION is more than just a diving event; it’s a journey into the past, guided by local experts who bring the stories behind these relics to life. Here, you’ll witness how nature reclaims these silent witnesses of history—vibrant corals and schools of fish breathing new life into these once war-torn vessels.

Everything—from equipment to dive logistics—is meticulously planned to ensure the smooth running of WREXPEDITION. What’s more, the camaraderie among participants, united by their enthusiasm for Palau’s underwater history, is unmatched. This event blends adventure, history, and community, offering a perfect mix of thrilling dives and deep cultural insights.

Shark Week Palau: Dive with the ocean’s apex predators

(Photo courtesy of Fish n Fins)

Are you ready for the kings of the sea? Fish ‘n Fins Palau, in collaboration with the Micronesian Shark Foundation, proudly presents the 23rd annual Shark Week Palau, running from March 7 to March 14, 2025. Divers can choose between 5- and 7-day packages, allowing them to explore Palau’s incredible marine life in their own way.

Shark Week Palau gets you closer to the ocean’s greatest hunters than any other event. Thanks to Palau’s strong conservation efforts, the local shark population is thriving, and Shark Week is the ultimate showcase of this success. But it’s more than just swimming with these majestic creatures—it’s about learning their vital role in marine ecosystems and deepening our understanding of their protection.

There are a couple of natural highlights that simply cannot be missed—the spawning aggregation of Moorish idols, where hundreds of sharks circle amidst the frenzy, is a spectacle so astonishing that even the BBC couldn’t resist covering it. And then there’s the snapper spawning under the full moon—a breathtaking scene with sharks on the hunt and fish caught in the cycle of life. From gray reef sharks and blacktips to the majestic hammerhead, Shark Week lets you witness them all, always with the utmost safety standards and respect for the animals.

Shark Week Palau is the perfect mix of adventure and education. Through interactive seminars and engaging presentations, participants learn why sharks are vital for a healthy ocean. The entire event is designed to ensure you fully enjoy the thrilling dives while experiencing Palau’s dedication to preserving these magnificent creatures. If you’re looking for a unique experience where you can come face-to-face with sharks and learn along the way, Shark Week is definitely for you!

Getting to Palau: Easy access from around the world

(Photo courtesy of Fish n Fins)

Pack your bags, folks—Palau just became even easier to reach! This is especially great news for travelers from all over the world, including service members of the U.S. military stationed in Japan and South Korea. New direct flights from Japan, Hong Kong, and even Australia will get you to paradise quicker than ever. Sure, the tried-and-true route via the U.S., Japan, and South Korea through Taiwan with China Airlines remains a fantastic option, but these new connections make travel planning a breeze.

With direct flights from Tokyo starting in April 2025 and Hong Kong flights already in operation, those long airport layovers and complex transfers are a thing of the past—just grab your fins and go! Thanks to these new routes, you can focus on what really matters: the adventure under the waves, without the journey feeling like a marathon.

But it’s not just about speed—it’s also about flexibility. These new routes offer something for every type of traveler, whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended stay to soak up everything Palau has to offer. At the end of the day, Palau becomes even more attractive for divers around the globe—an ideal choice for those seeking one of the world’s best underwater adventures. And the best part? The experienced team at Fish ’n Fins is ready to guide you through the booking process, making the journey to paradise as smooth as possible.

More than just fins: Adventures beyond diving in Palau

(Photo courtesy of Fish n Fins)

Palau is so much more than just incredible dive sites—it’s an adventurer’s paradise with a variety of activities to suit every mood. Imagine gliding across turquoise waters in a kayak, surrounded by the impressive limestone formations of the Rock Islands. These scenic excursions offer a fantastic way to appreciate Palau’s coastline, and also let you venture into hidden lagoons and peaceful coves that can only be reached by paddle. If you’re in the mood for even more action on the water, grab a stand-up paddle-board, test your balance, and marvel at the colorful coral reefs beneath you.

But the thrill isn’t confined to the water—there’s plenty to discover on land as well. Nature enthusiasts will find countless hiking trails winding through lush rainforest. These treks follow ancient stone pathways lovingly restored to give you a glimpse into Palau’s history. Along these trails, you’ll get up close with Palau’s unique flora and fauna—from exotic birds to hidden waterfalls waiting to be found. One particular favorite is the Ngardmau Waterfalls, Palau’s largest, where hikers can cool off after an invigorating trek.

All these activities perfectly complement diving, giving visitors the chance to experience all that Palau has to offer. Whether you’re after tranquil, relaxing moments or adrenaline-pumping challenges, Palau has something for everyone. The blend of land and water adventures ensures that no day is the same, allowing you to immerse yourself in the true beauty and diversity of Palau.

Why Palau remains a top diving destination

Palau remains one of the top diving destinations in the world—there’s no doubt about it. Where else can you find such a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a thriving underwater ecosystem? Especially in a time when oceans are rapidly changing, Palau stands as a sanctuary for those seeking the untouched magic of the sea. With its healthy coral reefs, incredible marine life, and unique dive sites, Palau continues to fascinate even the most seasoned divers.

Whether you’re diving through World War II wrecks during WREXPEDITION or feeling the adrenaline rush during Shark Week, every dive in Palau is an opportunity to experience something truly extraordinary. Palau’s strong commitment to marine conservation ensures that this underwater world remains vibrant and diverse—from schools of fish so dense they block the sunlight to sharks gliding gracefully alongside you. One diver put it best:

“Diving in Palau is like traveling back in time to the unspoiled wonders of the ocean. It’s a direct testament to the power of conservation—schools of fish so thick you can’t see the bottom, and sharks that glide effortlessly by your side.”

This is the result of hard work by the government, local communities, and dedicated dive operators like Fish ’n Fins, all striving to keep Palau an underwater paradise.

And Fish ’n Fins truly makes a difference! They are not just guides to the best spots—they ensure your dives are seamless, and their service is nothing short of first-class. The combination of breathtaking dive adventures, historical sites, and excellent dive operations makes Palau a place you don’t visit just once. You come back again and again—because Palau never lets you go.

With both new and familiar flight routes, getting to Palau has never been easier. Whether you’re captivated by historic wrecks, eager to encounter spectacular sharks, or just want a relaxing time under the sea—Palau offers something genuinely unique for everyone. It remains one of the few destinations that promises a world-class diving experience—rich in natural wonder and committed to protecting the oceans for generations to come.