A liveaboard expedition is only part of what makes Palau such an incredible destination.
Many of our guests choose to arrive a few days early or stay on after the expedition to experience even more of what these remarkable islands have to offer. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, photography, or simply time to unwind after a week of diving, Palau offers something for everyone.
After more than 15 years exploring Palau, we've put together our favourite recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.
These are the companies, restaurants, and experiences we genuinely recommend to our own friends and family.
Some activities can be booked directly with the operators, while others can be arranged through Unique Ocean Expeditions as part of your trip.
Whether you're arriving early or staying a few extra nights, Palau offers accommodation to suit every budget.
From luxury waterfront resorts with private beaches to comfortable boutique hotels and affordable guesthouses in Koror, there's something for every traveller.
We're happy to recommend accommodation based on your budget, preferred location, and travel style. If you'd like us to include hotel reservations as part of your expedition booking, simply let us know.
One of the most peaceful ways to experience Palau.
While most visitors explore the Rock Islands by speedboat, kayaking allows you to slow down and discover another side of this extraordinary archipelago.
Paddling quietly through hidden lagoons, narrow limestone passages, and untouched beaches gives you access to places that larger boats simply cannot reach. Crystal-clear water, tropical forests, secluded coves, and incredible snorkeling opportunities make this one of Palau's most rewarding land-based adventures.
Whether you choose a single-day excursion or a multi-day camping expedition, every trip offers a different perspective of the UNESCO World Heritage Rock Islands.
We highly recommend Paddling Palau, whose experienced local guides know the islands better than anyone.
Recommended for: Everyone
Duration: Half day to multiple days
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Perfect before or after your liveaboard.
See Palau from a perspective few people ever experience.
The famous Rock Islands are breathtaking underwater—but from the air they become something entirely different.
A scenic flight reveals hundreds of emerald limestone islands scattered across electric-blue lagoons, creating one of the most spectacular aerial landscapes anywhere on Earth. You'll fly above famous dive sites, hidden reefs, winding channels, pristine beaches, and remote islands that can only truly be appreciated from above.
Photographers especially love this experience, while divers often say it gives them a completely new appreciation of the places they've just explored beneath the surface.
We recommend Smile Air, whose experienced pilots have been flying visitors around Palau for many years.
Recommended for: Everyone
Flight time: Approximately 40–60 minutes
Difficulty: None
An unforgettable addition to any Palau itinerary.
Experience the island beyond the reefs.
Northern Palau is rich in history, culture, waterfalls, ancient villages, and spectacular viewpoints. Exploring with a knowledgeable local guide allows you to discover places and stories that many visitors never experience.
Visit beautiful waterfalls hidden within the jungle, learn about Palau's traditional culture, explore important World War II sites, and enjoy breathtaking views across the islands.
Private tours can be customised to suit your interests and are perfect for couples, families, photographers, or anyone wanting a more personal experience.
We recommend Fish 'n Fins for private guided land tours.
Recommended for: Families, photographers, non-divers and returning guests.
Duration: Half day or full day
Difficulty: Easy
Hiring a car is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to discover Palau beyond Koror.
With quiet roads, short driving distances, and stunning scenery around almost every corner, it's easy to spend a day visiting waterfalls, beaches, lookout points, museums, cafés, and local villages at your own pace.
Unlike many tropical destinations, driving in Palau is relaxed and uncomplicated, making it ideal for visitors who enjoy a little independence.
We recommend collecting your rental car directly from the airport or Koror and spending a few extra days exploring before or after your expedition.
Our preferred rental companies are West Car Rental and IA Rent A Car, both of whom have provided reliable service to our guests over many years.
Recommended for: Independent travellers
Duration: Flexible
Difficulty: Easy
Not ready for your diving to end?
Palau offers some of the finest shore-based diving anywhere in the Pacific, making it easy to extend your underwater adventure before boarding the liveaboard or after returning to port.
Adding two or three extra dive days is a fantastic way to ease into the trip, adjust your equipment, or revisit iconic dive sites like Blue Corner, German Channel, Ulong Channel, and many lesser-known local reefs.
Unlike the liveaboard schedule, land-based diving is generally more relaxed, giving photographers more time and flexibility while still enjoying Palau's incredible marine life.
We regularly recommend:
• Sam's Tours
• Neco Marine
Each offers excellent boats, experienced guides, Nitrox, equipment rental, and professional service.
If you'd like us to organise additional diving, simply let us know and we'll happily help coordinate everything around your expedition dates.
UNIQUE OCEAN EXPEDITIONS creates Worldwide scuba diving expeditions timed with nature, guided by experience, and created for those seeking the ocean’s rarest encounters.
