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.

ACCOMMODATION

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.

1. West Plaza Malakal - For divers looking for a clean, comfortable, and affordable place to stay, West Plaza Malakal has long been one of our favourite recommendations.

   Located on Malakal Island, it's within easy walking distance of many of Palau's major dive operators, restaurants, cafés, and the marina. Rooms are simple but spacious, with everything you need for a few nights before or after your liveaboard.

   If your priority is spending your budget on diving rather than luxury accommodation, this is an excellent choice.

2. Palau Central Hotel - If you'd like to stay right in the centre of Koror, Palau Central Hotel is our preferred choice.

   Modern, stylish, and beautifully designed, it combines boutique comfort with one of the most convenient locations in town. Restaurants, cafés, supermarkets, shops, and the waterfront are all just a short walk away, making it ideal if you enjoy exploring on foot.

   It's an excellent balance of comfort, convenience, and value, and consistently receives outstanding guest reviews.

3. The COVE Resort Palau - offers a more contemporary boutique-resort feel. Located on Malakal overlooking the marina and Rock Islands, it combines spacious modern rooms with a beautiful swimming pool and an excellent waterfront setting, while remaining close to many dive operators and restaurants.

4. Palau Pacific Resort - If you're looking to turn your expedition into a true island holiday, we recommend either Palau Pacific Resort or COVE Resort.

   Palau's most iconic luxury resort, offering a beautiful private beach, tropical gardens, excellent restaurants, and first-class facilities. It's the perfect place to unwind after an unforgettable week at sea and enjoy a little well-earned luxury.

KAYAKING THROUGH THE ROCK ISLANDS

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.

SCENIC FLIGHT OVER PALAU’S ROCK ISLANDS

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.

EXPLORE PALAU AT YOUR OWN PACE

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

EXTEND YOUR DIVING

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.