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Accommodation

Accommodation

Accommodation Types

Palau provides lodging from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses, with main options concentrated in Koror. Remote island resorts offer unique, secluded experiences.

Traditional hostels, camping, and formal homestays are very limited or not available for tourists.

Lodging Categories

  • Luxury Resorts: Extensive amenities, often private beaches, multiple dining, on-site dive centers, spa services.
  • Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable, standard amenities like A/C, private bathrooms, often a pool and restaurant.
  • Budget Hotels/Guesthouses: Simpler, basic amenities, good value. Some family-run.
  • Remote Island Resorts: Secluded, focus on diving/nature, accessible by boat transfer.

Neighborhood Guide

Areas and Characteristics

  • Koror: Commercial and population hub. Most businesses, restaurants, shops, tour operators. Widest range of accommodation.
  • Malakal Island: Peninsula connected to Koror. Malakal Port, larger resorts, dive shops. Blend of nature and tourism.
  • Babeldaob: Largest island, rural. Rainforests, waterfalls, historical sites. Less crowded. Limited accommodation.
  • Peleliu: Historically significant WWII site. Unique diving. Very limited accommodation and dining.
  • Proximity to Attractions: Koror best for restaurants, shops, dive operators, Rock Islands tours. Babeldaob for land-based sites.
  • Noise Levels: Koror can have some traffic noise; generally quiet. Babeldaob and Peleliu are very quiet, nature-dominated.

Safety and Considerations by Area

  • All areas of Palau are generally very safe for tourists.
  • Petty crime is rare. Secure valuables and stay aware.
  • No specific neighborhoods are known for high crime rates.
  • Peleliu access: small plane or boat from Koror. All attractions on Peleliu are close once you arrive.

This guide helps you choose the area that matches your travel priorities.

Booking Strategies

  • Advance Booking: For high season (Dec-Apr), book flights, accommodation (dive resorts), and popular tours 3-6 months ahead due to limited availability.
  • Trusted Platforms: Booking.com and Agoda are commonly used for hotels.
  • Direct Booking: Many dive resorts and larger hotels prefer direct bookings, often providing package deals with diving for better value.
  • Deposit/Cancellation: Policies vary; many require a deposit, often non-refundable or with strict cancellation windows for dive packages. Review terms carefully.

Seasonal Pricing and Expectations

  • Peak Season (Dec-Apr)

    Accommodation and tour prices are generally highest due to increased demand.

  • Low Season (Aug-Oct)

    Prices can be lower due to fewer tourists and increased rainfall.

  • Shoulder Season (May-Nov excluding Aug-Oct)

    More flexibility might exist, and popular spots should still be booked a few months out.

  • Negotiation

    Negotiation for walk-in rates is not common or expected in established hotels/resorts. Prices are generally fixed.

Accommodation Recommendations

This table provides examples and characteristics for various accommodation types in Palau.

Comparison Table

  • Luxury Resort

    Price Range: $350 - $800+ | Features: Full amenities, private beach, dive center, multiple dining, spa. Ideal for couples, honeymooners, discerning travelers. | Example: Palau Pacific Resort

  • Mid-Range Hotel

    Price Range: $150 - $300 | Features: Comfortable rooms, pool, restaurant, often with dive shop partnerships. Good balance of comfort and value. | Examples: Palau Royal Resort, Sea Passion Hotel

  • Dive Resort

    Price Range: $100 - $300 | Features: Focused on divers, often with on-site dive center, gear rinse tanks, early breakfasts. | Examples: Sam's Tours (offers accommodation), Fish 'n Fins (offers packages)

  • Budget Hotel / Guesthouse

    Price Range: $70 - $150 | Features: Basic, clean rooms, often family-run. Limited amenities but good value. | Examples: West Plaza Hotels (multiple locations), Ms. P's Guesthouse

  • Remote Island Lodge

    Price Range: $150 - $400 | Features: Secluded, rustic or eco-friendly, focus on nature and tranquility. Access by boat transfer. | Example: Carp Island Resort

  • Vacation Rentals

    Limited availability, mainly in Koror. Offer more space and kitchen facilities for longer stays or families. Availability inconsistent; advance booking helps. | Explore on Vrbo or Airbnb.

Palau Pacific Resort

Image: The exterior of Palau Pacific Resort, a luxury accommodation option with lush gardens and beachfront access. View Image

Palau Royal Resort Room

Image: A typical mid-range hotel room in Koror, showing a clean and comfortable setup. View Image

Ms. P's Guesthouse

Image: A small, family-run guesthouse exterior in Palau, indicating a budget-friendly option. View Image

Additional Lodging Information

While options are concentrated in Koror, remote island resorts offer a deep connection with nature and isolation. Vacation rentals provide home-like amenities for certain travelers.

  • Homestay/Community Tourism: Not a widely developed tourism offering. Some guesthouses are family-run. Palau Pledge promotes broader community and environmental efforts.
  • Camping: Generally not common or permitted for tourists, especially in protected areas. No designated public campgrounds.
  • Outdoor Accommodation: For outdoor experiences, rely on boat-based tours with return to your accommodation each night.

Relevant Resources

Use these affiliate resources to help plan and book your accommodation in Palau.

Global Booking Platforms

These platforms offer a wide range of hotel options and guest reviews for Palau and worldwide.

Popular Choices

  • Booking.com - Global accommodation booking platform.
  • Agoda - Accommodation booking site with Asian strength.
  • IHG Hotels - International hotel chain with properties.

Specialized Lodging Platforms

For specific needs like budget travel, vacation homes, or unique house-sitting experiences.

Alternative Options

Direct Booking for Dive Trips

For dive liveaboards or specialized dive tours, direct booking with the dive operator or through a reputable dive travel agency is common.

Dive Tour Providers

  • Sam's Tours: Visit Website
  • Fish 'n Fins: Visit Website
  • These specialized bookings often have specific deposit and cancellation policies.

Review terms carefully before committing to any booking.

General Booking Reminders

Considerations

  • Book popular accommodations and dive operators a few months out, even in shoulder/low season.
  • Adjust travel dates if budget is a main concern, as low season often has lower prices.
  • Prices are highest during peak season (December-April).

Early planning often leads to better rates and selection.

Accommodation Features & Considerations

Amenities to Look For

  • Wi-Fi access (check reliability and speed).
  • Air-conditioning in rooms, a must for comfort.
  • Swimming pool, especially for relaxation after activities.

Choosing Your Stay

  • Proximity to dive shops if diving is a priority.
  • On-site dining options or nearby restaurants.
  • Comfort and cleanliness are generally high across categories.

Tips for a Comfortable Stay

A good accommodation choice supports your Palauan adventure.

Factor in your main activities (diving, land exploration, relaxation) when selecting your lodging location.

Beachfront & Nature

Luxury resorts often have private beaches. Remote island lodges offer direct nature immersion.

Koror Convenience

Staying in Koror offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and tour booking services. Malakal Island is handy for dive shops.

Babeldaob Exploration

Limited accommodation, ideal for land-based exploration, hiking, and traditional Palauan life. Far from main dive sites.

Planning Your Stay

Reviews and Ratings

Read recent guest reviews on booking platforms or direct hotel websites. Reviews provide insights into service quality, cleanliness, and actual experiences.

Check Reviews on Booking.com

Amenities Checklist

Make a checklist of essential amenities (e.g., Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private bathroom, specific services). Confirm these directly with the property if they are critical.

Search Amenities on Agoda

Dive-Specific Needs

If you are a diver, look for resorts with on-site dive centers, gear storage, rinse tanks, and early breakfast options. These facilities significantly convenience dive trips.

Explore Dive Resorts

Family/Group Accommodations

For families or groups, vacation rentals or larger hotel suites provide more space and amenities. Confirm bedding configurations and kitchen access.

Find Family Rentals

Local Guides/Tours Integration

Some hotels and resorts have direct relationships with local tour operators. This simplifies booking excursions directly from your lodging.

Browse Palau Tours

Booking Early for Convenience

Booking your accommodation well in advance, especially during Palau's high season, offers several advantages.

Benefits of Early Booking

  • Securing your preferred dates and room types.
  • Potentially lower rates due to early bird discounts.
  • Avoiding fully booked situations during peak travel times.

Check-in and Check-out Procedures

Familiarize yourself with the common procedures for arrival and departure at your chosen accommodation.

Standard Practices

  • Standard check-in time is usually 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM.
  • Standard check-out time is typically 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM.
  • Late check-out or early check-in may be available upon request, often for a fee.
  • A valid ID and booking confirmation are needed at check-in.

Tip for Extended Stays

For extended stays, considering vacation rentals with kitchen facilities in Koror can be cost-effective and offer more flexibility.

This helps manage meal costs and provides a home-like environment.

Environmental Policy Reminder

Palau is dedicated to conservation. This extends to accommodations and your stay.

Palau Pledge & Sustainability

Upon arrival, visitors sign the Palau Pledge, a commitment to protecting Palau's natural and cultural heritage.

Your Role in Conservation

  • Support eco-friendly accommodations where possible.
  • Reduce waste and conserve water/energy during your stay.
  • Respect marine life and local customs.

Responsible Tourism Practices

Your choices in accommodation and activities contribute to Palau's long-term sustainability efforts.

Making a Positive Impact

  • Choose licensed tour operators who follow environmental guidelines.
  • Participate in activities that prioritize environmental protection.
  • Engage with local communities respectfully.

Eco-Friendly Stays

Some properties have specific eco-certifications or green initiatives.

Look for Hotels That:

  • Use renewable energy.
  • Implement water conservation programs.
  • Have waste reduction and recycling programs.

Local Employment

Choosing accommodations that prioritize local employment supports the Palauan economy.

Benefits to the Community:

  • Provides direct economic opportunities.
  • Fosters community well-being.

Look for hotels that openly promote local staff.

Cultural Sensitivity

When staying, observe and respect local cultural norms and practices.

Respectful Conduct:

  • Dress modestly outside of resorts, especially in public areas.
  • Ask permission before taking photos of individuals.
  • Adhere to any local guidelines provided by your accommodation.

A respectful approach enhances your visit and local relations.

Accommodation Sustainability Summary

Community Support

Patronizing establishments that support local employment benefits the Palauan community directly.

Visitor Impact

Your actions, from conserving resources to respecting culture, have a positive impact on Palau.

The Palau Pledge

Remember the Palau Pledge, a commitment signed by all visitors to protect Palau's natural and cultural heritage for future generations.