Location:
Set in the western Pacific Ocean, east of the Philippines, Palau is a Micronesian island nation made up of limestone rock islands, turquoise lagoons, and thriving coral reefs.
 
Why it’s a top dive destination:
Palau offers some of the most pristine and diverse diving on the planet — with drop-offs, drift dives, and World War II wrecks all surrounded by incredible marine life. But its most famous natural wonder is Jellyfish Lake, where divers and snorkelers can float among millions of harmless golden jellyfish in a surreal, dreamlike setting.
 
Highlights:
Jellyfish Lake on Eil Malk Island
Blue Corner and Blue Holes for sharks and coral walls
WWII wrecks and tunnels from the Pacific campaigns
Manta rays, turtles, and schooling reef fish
 
Fun Fact:
The golden jellyfish of Palau’s Jellyfish Lake lost their stingers through evolution — adapting perfectly to a predator-free environment, allowing humans to drift among them safely.