The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon

The Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the jewel of Palau and one of the most beautiful seascapes on earth, a dreamlike scattering of hundreds of small, rounded limestone islands rising from a lagoon of the most dazzling turquoise. Undercut by the sea and topped with dense green jungle, these mushroom-shaped islets hide secret beaches, hidden coves, sea caves, ancient rock art and mysterious marine lakes. The clear, warm waters teem with coral and marine life, making the area a paradise for kayaking, snorkelling and boat exploration among a maze of islands of surreal, unspoilt beauty.

What you actually see

• The mushroom islands - the jungle-topped limestone islets.
• The hidden beaches and coves - the secret shores and lagoons.
• The marine lakes - the enclosed saltwater lakes among the islands.
• The snorkelling and kayaking - the coral and island exploration.

When to go

November to April, the drier season, for the calmest seas and best conditions, though Palau is a warm tropical destination year-round; the islands are explored on boat trips from Koror, often combined with snorkelling and diving. A Rock Islands permit is required, part of Palau's strong conservation regime.

Honest expectations

Palau is remote and among the more expensive Pacific destinations to reach and visit, with permits required and strict environmental rules, so it is a splurge and a journey rather than a casual trip; the islands are explored by boat, dependent on weather and tours. For the reward of one of the most beautiful, unspoilt island seascapes on the planet, a maze of emerald islets and turquoise water teeming with life, though, the Rock Islands are simply magical.

Nearby

Jellyfish Lake, the Koror dive sites and the reefs are within the lagoon.