Ulong Island
A Rock Island with a beach, rock art and a story of shipwrecked British sailors.
Updated 18 October 2026
UNESCO World Heritage
Ulong is one of the larger Rock Islands, with a beach on its western side and, in a rock shelter above, painted figures made by Palauans long before contact. In 1783 the East India Company packet Antelope wrecked on the reef nearby and its crew spent months on Ulong building a replacement vessel, an episode that opened Palau's contact with Europe. The island later hosted a television series.
History
In 1783 the East India Company packet Antelope, under Captain Henry Wilson, was wrecked off Ulong, and Wilson returned to England with the local Prince Lee Boo. In the late 18th century the islanders tried to defend Ulong against an attack along Ikesakes Reef but were defeated and forced to leave, and the island holds Palau cave paintings (Wikipedia, Ulong Island).
What to look for
- The rock art - painted figures in the shelter above the beach.
- The beach - the sand on the island's western side.
- The Antelope wreck story - the 1783 shipwreck and the months ashore.
- The Rock Islands setting - limestone and turquoise water around it.
When to go
November to April is the drier season. Boat trips run year round. The island is on most full-day Rock Islands itineraries.
Before you go
The rock art is faint and easy to miss without pointing out. It is on tour itineraries and can be busy. A Rock Islands permit is required and there are no facilities.
Nearby
Ngerukewid is south, and Koror is east.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q5925705, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Ulong Island
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
- Head torch + spare batteries - Hands-free light is essential; caves are truly dark. Find on Amazon
- Quick-dry towel - A microfibre towel packs small and dries in minutes. Find on Amazon
- Grippy closed shoes - Cave floors are wet, muddy and slick with formations. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
