Palau is recognized worldwide as a diver’s paradise—a destination where crystal-clear waters, dramatic coral reefs, and abundant marine life come together in breathtaking harmony. Beyond its world-class diving reputation, Palau is also home to seven dive sites that have gone viral on Instagram, attracting underwater photographers, influencers, and adventurers eager to capture that perfect shot.If you love underwater photography and dream of adding epic ocean images to your feed, these 7 iconic Instagram dive sites in Palau are absolute must-sees.
Palau’s 7 Instagram-Famous Dive Site
Blue Corner – The Crown Jewel of Palau
Depth: 20–30m+ | Visibility: 15–30m+ | Current: Mild to strong | Level: Advanced (AOW)
One of the world’s Top 10 dive sites, Blue Corner is a wide-angle photographer’s dream. With reef hooks, divers secure themselves along the ledge to watch huge schools of jacks, barracuda, snappers, and Napoleon wrasse drift by, often joined by turtles and eagle rays. On lucky days, divers witness shark storms or even whale sharks and hammerheads. Wide-angle lenses here capture surreal images of fish and sharks in formation against a vibrant coral backdrop.
Blue Hole – The Cathedral of Light
Depth: 20–30m+ | Visibility: 15–20m+ | Current: None | Level: Advanced (AOW)
Four natural openings on the reef plate lead into this cavern, where sunlight beams down in divine “Jesus rays”, creating dreamlike silhouettes. The arched exit at 25–30m is another perfect wide-angle frame. Blue Hole is considered a must-shoot site for its spiritual, cathedral-like ambiance that glows under the midday sun.
Ulong Channel – Drift Through Rose Coral Walls
Depth: Max 18m | Visibility: 10–20m+ | Current: Strong | Level: Open Water+
Known as Palau’s underwater rollercoaster, this channel lets divers drift effortlessly through a natural coral canyon. Along the ride, expect close passes by reef sharks and schools of snappers. The highlight is the giant rose coral formations, towering like underwater fortresses—perfect for dramatic, wide shots.
Jake Seaplane Wreck – A Time Capsule in Shallow Waters
Depth: ~15m | Visibility: 15–30m | Current: None | Level: Beginner/DSD
This WWII Japanese reconnaissance plane rests in shallow, calm waters, making it one of the most accessible wrecks in Palau. Its intact fuselage, coral-encrusted wings, and eerie cockpit provide a cinematic, post-apocalyptic backdrop. Because of its shallow depth, freedivers and scuba beginners alike can capture striking shots here with ample natural light.
Siaes Tunnel – A Hidden Deepwater Cathedral
Depth: 30–50m+ | Visibility: 15–30m+ | Current: None | Level: Advanced (AOW + Nitrox)
This massive tunnel cuts through the reef wall at depth, featuring huge gorgonian fans at the exit and surreal light shafts at the entrance. The iconic shot is looking outward, where silhouettes of divers frame the tunnel’s glowing blue mouth. A favorite for technical photographers seeking dramatic wide-angle compositions.
Big Drop-off – Palau’s Famous Vertical Wall
Depth: 15–50m+ | Visibility: 15–25m+ | Current: Mild to medium | Level: Beginner–Advanced
Often ranked among Palau’s best snorkeling and diving spots, Big Drop-off is a vertical wall covered in soft corals, sponges, and giant sea fans. Shoals of butterflyfish and anthias form colorful backdrops for portraits, while wide-angle shots capture the sheer wall dropping into the blue. Even beginners can shoot stunning content here.
Chandelier Cave – Stalactites & Hidden Air Chambers
- Depth: 5–15m | Visibility: Up to 30m | Current: None | Level: OW (with good buoyancy)
This surreal site features four interconnected air chambers filled with stalactites and crystal formations. Divers surface inside the caves to breathe, chat, and capture unique “underground” portraits. Outside the cave, rare mandarin fish (dragonets) hide in coral—another favorite subject for macro photographers.
✨ Conclusion
Palau’s 7 Instagram-famous dive sites prove why this island nation is not only a diving mecca but also a photographer’s paradise. From shark-filled corners and coral cathedrals to WWII relics and surreal caves, each dive site offers unique compositions that can transform your feed into a masterpiece.👉 Ready to plan your underwater photo journey?
Contact LT DIVE today and let our team design a customized trip that ensures you dive safely, shoot beautifully, and leave with memories worth sharing worldwide.
Underwater Photography Price List (USD)
(Equipment: Sony A7M4 Professional Full-Frame Camera)
| Service | Price (per person) | What’s Included | Extra Participants | Photo Output | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scuba Diving Photoshoot | USD $600 | Full professional underwater photoshoot during dives | +USD $200 per person (up to 8 divers) | ~30 edited photos (10 per dive) | Photo count increases with group size |
| Freediving Photoshoot | USD $1,200 | Full freediving photoshoot service | +USD $300 per person (up to 6 models) | ~30 edited photos (10 per session) | Limited group size for quality & safety |
| Try Scuba Diving Photoshoot | USD $200 | Professional photoshoot for first-time divers | +USD $200 per person (up to 10 participants) | ~20 edited photos (10 per dive) | Perfect for beginners |
🌊 Palau’s breathtaking underwater world is waiting for you.
Capture your dream ocean adventure with professional photography and take home memories that will last a lifetime—along with Instagram-worthy shots that shine.
✨ See you in Palau, where your underwater story begins!
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.
