The Ultimate Land Adventure Guide
When people think of Palau, what often comes to mind are its world-class dive sites and pristine marine ecosystems. But this tropical island nation also offers unforgettable land adventures that showcase its rich culture, history, and natural beauty.
If you’re planning a trip to Palau and wondering what else you can do beyond diving, this guide will walk you through Palau’s North Island rainforest adventures and Koror city cultural tours, plus evening markets, local cuisine, and shopping highlights. Let’s dive in—on land!
North Island Adventure – Tropical Rainforest & Waterfalls
Babeldaob, Palau’s largest island (and the second largest in Micronesia after Guam), is home to unspoiled tropical rainforest, volcanic landscapes, and unique cultural landmarks. A day trip here offers the perfect balance of hiking, nature, and relaxation.
Ngardmau Waterfall
Hiking time: 20 min in, 30 min return
Entry fee: $10 per adult; children under 10 free
Follow a lush jungle trail past basalt riverbeds and natural pools shaped over 5,000 years. A suspension bridge leads you to Ngardmau Waterfall, the largest in Palau. Mist and negative ions refresh your senses, making it the perfect spot to recharge.
You can swim in designated pools (caution: some are slippery and not safe for jumping). For the adventurous, the return route via the “Warrior’s Slope” offers a fun challenge. End the hike with a freshly cracked coconut at the trailhead—nature’s perfect electrolyte drink.
⚠️ Note: All flora and fauna within the park are protected. Removing or damaging plants or wildlife can result in fines up to $500.
The Capitol Complex – “Palau’s White House”
A gift from Taiwan, Palau’s Capitol Complex resembles the U.S. White House and is comprised of three main buildings: the President’s Office, Congress, and the Supreme Court. With its stately architecture and landscaped grounds, it’s a popular photo stop.
Lunch Break
Enjoy a Palauan-style lunch at a scenic local restaurant, often featuring fresh seafood and island specialties. On Mondays (when many restaurants close), lunch is provided at the Ngardmau Waterfall park café, with options like classic Palauan burgers and cold drinks.
Koror City Tour – Culture & History in Half a Day
Palau is made up of 340 islands, with the main ones—Babeldaob, Koror, and Malakal—connected by bridges. Exploring Koror offers a glimpse into the nation’s cultural and historical identity.
Highlights:
- Ice Park – the southernmost starting point of the tour
- Taiwan Fisheries Base & Japanese Giant Clam Research Center – unique marine initiatives
- Long Island Park – established in 2011, a beautiful seaside reserve
- Palau Aquarium – showcasing local marine biodiversity and conservation
- National Museum & Etpison Private Museum – Palau’s history, culture, and artifacts
- KB Bridge (Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge) – a vital landmark linking Babeldaob and Koror
📍 Tour length: ~3.5–4 hours
💰 Cost: $45 per person (excludes lunch & museum entry fees)
Palau Night Market – A Cozy Community Vibe
Unlike the large, bustling night markets of Taiwan or Thailand, Palau’s version is small but charming. Held about every two weeks on pay-day weekends, you’ll find:
- Street food: fried chicken, grilled fish, fries
- Fresh local drinks and small souvenirs
- Live cultural music and dance performances
📍 When: Friday nights in Koror, Saturday nights in Airai (until ~9 PM)
The atmosphere is warm and communal, perfect for experiencing everyday Palauan life.
Palau Food Guide – Must-Try Restaurants
In Palau, 99.9% of ingredients rely on imports. But there’s one precious exception—the pristine waters of this island nation provide some of the world’s finest wild-caught seafood.
Thanks to Palau’s nationwide policy of zero industrial discharge, its ocean is among the purest on Earth. From these untouched seas come flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
So what makes a Palau trip truly unforgettable—beyond the dreamlike Blue Hole and dazzling reef fish? The answer awaits at the dining table.
Here are 5 must-visit restaurants that even the most seasoned foodies will fall in love with:
F.C. Seafood Restaurant – Authentic Chinese Seafood in Palau
Craving the familiar flavors of Chinese cuisine in Palau? F.C. Seafood Restaurant is the top choice for many Taiwanese visitors!
Specializing in Cantonese-style dishes, the menu features must-tries like steamed grouper, salt-and-pepper coconut crab, and mangrove crab—each cooked with fresh, flavorful seafood. Best of all, the restaurant offers Chinese-language service, making ordering easy and stress-free. It’s a perfect spot for family gatherings or a hearty feast after a full day of diving.
Elilai Seaside Dining
If you’re looking for a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while watching the sunset, Elilai is an absolute must! With ocean-facing seats and live guitar performances in the evening, the atmosphere couldn’t be more romantic.
The menu features creative Pacific-inspired Western cuisine, with dishes like lobster, steak, and pasta highly recommended. It’s one of the most popular spots in Palau for couples on a date or celebrating a special occasion.
ZIGU – Palau’s Popular Japanese Restaurant
If you’re craving authentic Japanese cuisine in Palau, ZIGU is a must-visit!
The cozy wooden interior creates a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Their signature dish is freshly prepared giant clam sashimi—crisply sweet and truly unforgettable. The yakitori menu offers a wide variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables grilled to perfection, each skewer bursting with flavor. Pair it with a fresh sashimi platter, and you’ll experience Palau’s ocean bounty in one of the most memorable meals of your trip.
Bem Ermii Burger Truck – Local Charcoal-Grilled Burgers
Looking for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly bite in Palau? You’ll love the bright yellow Bem Ermii food truck!
Known for its charcoal-grilled burgers, the patties are juicy and perfectly matched with crispy fries—a favorite among both locals and visitors. Conveniently located near the airport, it’s a go-to stop for many travelers right after landing or before heading home.
Easy Reservations with LT DIVE
Both of these popular dining spots can be booked through LT DIVE, which also offers free shuttle arrangements. Eat well and travel stress-free! Just remember to book in advance—tables during peak hours are in high demand.
Shopping in Palau – Souvenirs & Essentials
Before you leave Palau, don’t miss these shopping stops:
Over Drive – Convenient Dive & Souvenir Shop
Located right in downtown Koror, Over Drive is the go-to stop before heading to the airport! The shop sells all kinds of snorkeling and diving accessories—masks, fins, and more—as well as cute shell necklaces, ocean-themed trinkets, and postcards. Affordable, practical, and full of souvenir value, it’s the perfect spot to pick up meaningful gifts or last-minute dive gear.
📍 Address: Koror, Main St, Neco Plaza
🕒 Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
📞 Tel: +680 488 6591
Etpison Museum – Culture & Crafts in One Place
Looking for both culture and shopping in a single stop? Head to the Etpison Museum! Founded by Palau’s wealthiest family, this intimate private museum showcases traditional wood carvings, local handicrafts, and ocean-themed cultural exhibits. Beyond history and art, its three-story gift shop offers beautifully made souvenirs such as storyboard carvings, ocean-inspired jewelry, and photography prints—perfect for travelers who value authenticity and quality.
📍 Address: P.O. Box 7049 Koror, Palau 96940
🕒 Hours: Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Closed Sundays
📞 Tel: +680 488 6730
Surangel’s Supercenter（Airai Mall）
Palau’s only shopping mall with an escalator, Surangel’s Supercenter is just next to the airport—making it the perfect spot for a last-minute shopping spree. Opened by the Palauan preSurangel’s Supercenter (Airai Mall) – One-Stop Shopping
Palau’s only shopping mall with an escalator, Surangel’s Supercenter is just next to the airport—making it the perfect spot for a last-minute shopping spree. Opened by the Palauan president’s family, this multi-level mall offers everything from diving gear and surf brands to swimwear, electronics, and even Japanese and Korean snacks. There’s also a hot food counter on the ground floor (if you see the salmon rice bowls, don’t miss them!). With outlet-level prices and a huge variety of products, it’s the top choice for travelers who want to maximize their last 30–60 minutes in Palau.
📍 Address: 9G76+824, Airai, Palau
🕒 Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
📞 Tel: +680 587 7000
The Perfect Last-Day Itinerary
These three spots—Over Drive, Etpison Museum, and Surangel’s Supercenter—cover everything from diving gear and cultural crafts to full-scale shopping. They let you make the most of your final hours in Palau without wasting time.
Even better, LT DIVE can help arrange your shopping trip and provide free transfers, so you won’t need to worry about luggage or transportation. A great way to wrap up your Palau journey with both convenience and unforgettable memories!
Why Choose LT DIVE?
🌐 Multilingual, Clear Communication
From trip planning, safety briefings, and marine ecology explanations, to cultural tips and dining recommendations—we provide clear guidance in both English and other languages. No confusion, no stress—just safe, enjoyable adventures.
🏝 Local Experts Who Understand Travelers
We know Palau inside and out, from hidden corners of the Rock Islands to practical travel tips that make your trip easier. Our team understands international travelers’ needs and ensures you’re always well-prepared, comfortable, and confident.
🤿 Professional & Safe, Trusted by Divers
Whether it’s your first snorkeling experience or your 100th dive, our professional instructors tailor each adventure to your level. With a strong focus on safety, clear instructions, and care, you’ll always feel secure in the water.
🤝 Reliable Support Throughout Your Trip
Need assistance during your stay? LT DIVE is your local partner. From last-minute changes to unexpected needs, our team provides friendly and reliable support—so you can relax and enjoy Palau to the fullest.
Your Adventure, Your Way
✨At LT DIVE, every journey is personalized. We don’t offer cookie-cutter tours—we design experiences around you: the dive sites you dream of, the pace you prefer, and the kind of memories you want to create.
