Koror
Palau
Tropical island life at the gateway to Rock Islands lagoons
Overview
Koror is the practical heart of Palau and the clear base for expats, divers, and remote workers spending serious time in the country. While Ngerulmud is the capital, Koror is where most people live, work, shop, dine, and arrange daily life. It sits on compact islands linked by bridges, with easy access to marinas, dive operators, government services, and the airport area on nearby Babeldaob. The pace is slow, the scenery is world class, and daily life revolves around the sea.
Why Expats Love It
Expats choose Koror because it has nearly all of Palau's services in one place, including supermarkets, banks, clinics, schools, cafes, and the country's best hotel and apartment options. It is also the easiest place to build a routine while still being minutes from some of the best diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and island hopping on earth.
Must Dos
The essential, top gem experiences for the full tourist experience.
Rock Islands Tour
Take a full day boat trip through the UNESCO listed Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, with stops at limestone islets, hidden beaches, and snorkeling spots near Ngerukewid and the southern lagoons.
Jellyfish Lake Trip
Visit Ongeim'l Tketau on Eil Malk, when open and permitted, to swim in one of Palau's most famous marine lakes among golden jellyfish in a protected setting.
German Channel Dive
Join a dive trip to German Channel, one of Palau's signature sites, known for manta ray cleaning stations, reef life, and clear blue water between the Rock Islands.
Long Beach Sandbar
Time your visit to Long Beach for low tide, when a brilliant white sandbar appears between turquoise shallows in the Rock Islands and creates one of Palau's classic photo spots.
Belau Museum Visit
Spend a few hours at Belau National Museum in Koror to understand Palauan history, bai architecture, navigation, and the cultural background behind the islands you are exploring.
Ngardmau Waterfall Day
Cross to Babeldaob for a day trip to Ngardmau Waterfall, Palau's tallest waterfall, reached by trail and monorail route through lush interior forest.
Off the Beaten Path
Live like a local. Special, lesser known experiences for adventurers who want real local flavor.
Dolphins Pacific Area
Head to the Malakal side beyond the better known marinas for quieter waterfront views, local boat traffic, and a feel for daily maritime life away from tour crowds.
Koror Night Market
Look for evening food stalls and casual local takeaway spots around central Koror for grilled seafood, barbecue, and simple Palauan plates at neighborhood prices.
JP Bridge Sunset
Walk or drive the Japan Palau Friendship Bridge area at sunset for breezes, open water views, and a local end of day atmosphere between Koror and Babeldaob.
Long Island Park
Spend a slow afternoon on Long Island in Koror, where locals come for waterfront walks, small gatherings, and easy access to calm lagoon views.
Meyuns Back Roads
Explore the Meyuns residential area on Babeldaob just across the bridge for a more lived in side of greater Koror, with small stores, local homes, and fewer visitors.
Local Cafes Koror
Skip hotel dining and settle into small independent cafes in downtown Koror for coffee, lunch specials, and conversations with residents, dive staff, and long stay expats.
Cost of Living
1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center)
$1100/mo
3-Bedroom Apartment (City Center)
$2200/mo
Restaurant Meal
$18
Monthly Groceries
$500/mo
Monthly Transportation
$80/mo
Monthly Healthcare
$250/mo
Climate
Koror has a tropical rainforest climate, hot, humid, and green year round, with temperatures usually around 77 to 88 F. Rain can fall in any month, with wetter periods commonly from roughly May through November.
Best Time to Visit
February to April for drier weather and calm seas
Visa & Residency
Written for US citizens
US passport holders can enter Palau visa free for tourism and receive permission on arrival, typically for up to 1 year under the Compact of Free Association arrangements. You still need a passport valid for your stay, proof of onward travel, and enough funds. For work or business activity, confirm permit requirements locally before starting any employment.
These notes assume a US passport. If you hold a different nationality, your visa options and timelines may vary. Always confirm current rules with the official embassy or consulate before you commit.
Safety
Koror is generally calm and friendly, with low levels of serious violent crime affecting visitors. The main risks are road accidents, boating safety, strong sun, dehydration, and water related incidents during outdoor activities.
Healthcare
Koror has the country's main hospital services through Belau National Hospital nearby, plus clinics and pharmacies for routine needs. For serious specialist care or major emergencies, medical evacuation to Guam, Taiwan, or the Philippines may be necessary, so strong insurance is important.
Culture & Lifestyle
Culture
Palau is community oriented and respectful, and locals value politeness, modest behavior, and care for the environment. Marine protection is taken seriously, so visitors should follow reef safe rules and local conservation guidance.
Lifestyle
Life in Koror is relaxed, outdoorsy, and heavily centered on the ocean, with weekends often spent boating, diving, fishing, or visiting outer beaches. Nightlife is limited, but there are good casual restaurants, hotel bars, and a close knit expat scene.
Language
Palauan and English
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Timezone
PWT (UTC+9)