Nikko Bay

Nikko Bay is an enclosed arm of water in the Rock Islands close to Koror, ringed by undercut limestone with mangrove in the shallows and coral growing right up to the rock, and because it is sheltered on all sides it is the standard kayaking ground in Palau. Jellyfish that do not sting occur in parts of it. The water is calm enough that the reflections of the cliffs are unbroken. The bay takes its name from a Japanese-era comparison with the scenery at Nikko in Japan.

What you actually see

• The undercut limestone - cliffs eaten away at the waterline all round the bay.
• The kayak water - sheltered conditions on every side.
• The mangrove and coral - both growing along the same shoreline.
• The reflections - still water mirroring the rock walls.

When to go

November to April is the drier season. The bay is sheltered year round. Mornings are calmest for paddling.

Honest expectations

A Rock Islands permit is required. Kayaks must be hired or a tour joined. It is close to Koror and gets a lot of traffic.

Nearby

Milky Way is southwest, and Koror is east.