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Jellyfish Lake in Palau offers a rare swim among golden jellyfish, framed by the Rock Islands’ limestone lagoons, reefs and tropical forest.

A Marine Lake in the Rock Islands

Jellyfish Lake lies on Eil Malk, one of Palau’s forested limestone islands in the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, south-west of Koror. Although surrounded by land, it is a former marine lagoon connected to the ocean through cracks and fissures in the limestone. Over time, its isolated water has created distinctive ecological conditions, most famously supporting a population of golden jellyfish that moves across the sunlit upper lake each day.

Golden Jellyfish and a Delicate Ecosystem

The lake’s golden jellyfish are closely associated with Jellyfish Lake and are noted for their daily movement towards sunlight, which supports the microscopic algae living within their tissues. The animals are generally regarded as harmless to swimmers, although their population and behaviour are subject to natural fluctuations in rainfall, temperature and oceanographic conditions. The lake also contains moon jellyfish and deeper water that is not suitable for ordinary swimming. Visitors should follow current conservation guidance, remain in permitted areas and avoid touching wildlife.

Visiting Eil Malk

Jellyfish Lake is not a settlement or resort and has no restaurants, shops or accommodation. Access is normally by boat as part of a permitted excursion from Koror or another Rock Islands base, followed by a walk over the island’s rugged interior to the lake. The surrounding landscape is as important as the swim: steep karst islands, sheltered lagoons, coral reefs and dense vegetation form the wider setting. Conditions, access arrangements and conservation rules can change, so operators and local authorities should be consulted before departure.

When is the best time to visit Jellyfish Lake?

Best: October–December · 32–33°C

31° Temperature Range for JanuaryLow: 25.5°C, High: 31.2°C Precipitation Range for JanuaryLow: 250.5 mm, High: 300.2 mm J

32° Temperature Range for FebruaryLow: 25.8°C, High: 31.5°C Precipitation Range for FebruaryLow: 230.8 mm, High: 290.5 mm F

32° Temperature Range for MarchLow: 26°C, High: 31.8°C Precipitation Range for MarchLow: 220 mm, High: 280.8 mm M

32° Temperature Range for AprilLow: 26.2°C, High: 32.1°C Precipitation Range for AprilLow: 210.2 mm, High: 270.1 mm A

33° Temperature Range for MayLow: 26.5°C, High: 32.5°C Precipitation Range for MayLow: 200.5 mm, High: 260.5 mm M

33° Temperature Range for JuneLow: 26.8°C, High: 32.8°C Precipitation Range for JuneLow: 190.8 mm, High: 250.8 mm J

33° Temperature Range for JulyLow: 27°C, High: 33.1°C Precipitation Range for JulyLow: 180 mm, High: 240.1 mm J

34° Temperature Range for AugustLow: 27.2°C, High: 33.5°C Precipitation Range for AugustLow: 170.2 mm, High: 230.5 mm A

33° Temperature Range for SeptemberLow: 27°C, High: 33.1°C Precipitation Range for SeptemberLow: 160.5 mm, High: 220.9 mm S

Best 33° Temperature Range for OctoberLow: 26.8°C, High: 32.8°C Precipitation Range for OctoberLow: 150.8 mm, High: 210.2 mm O

Best 33° Temperature Range for NovemberLow: 26.5°C, High: 32.5°C Precipitation Range for NovemberLow: 140 mm, High: 200.1 mm N

Best 32° Temperature Range for DecemberLow: 26.2°C, High: 32.1°C Precipitation Range for DecemberLow: 130.2 mm, High: 190.5 mm D

Average daytime high and rainfall by month
Month	High (°C)	Rainfall (mm)
January	31	270
February	32	261
March	32	251
April	32	240
May	33	231
June	33	221
July	33	210
August	34	201
September	33	191
October (best)	33	180
November (best)	33	170
December (best)	32	161

Getting to and around Jellyfish Lake

How to get there

Jellyfish Lake is reached from Palau’s main visitor centre, Koror, by boat across the Rock Islands Southern Lagoon; it is not accessible by road or public transport. Most visitors join a permitted day excursion that combines the boat journey with a walk across Eil Malk. Koror is connected to international flights, although routes and schedules vary. Visitors should confirm that their excursion includes the necessary Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake permissions, as access arrangements can differ according to current conservation rules and weather conditions.

Transportation

Travel within Jellyfish Lake is limited to the walking route from the boat landing to the lake, followed by swimming or remaining at the designated shore areas according to current rules. The surrounding Rock Islands are explored by boat, with journeys normally arranged through licensed or authorised local operators. There is no road network, taxi service or independent public transport on Eil Malk. The approach can be affected by wind, rain and sea conditions, while the island path may be uneven, slippery or steep in places.

Best landmarks in Jellyfish Lake

Jellyfish Lake is the destination’s principal natural landmark, an enclosed marine lake whose golden jellyfish and layered water distinguish it from Palau’s open lagoon habitats. Eil Malk itself is part of the Rock Islands’ characteristic karst landscape, shaped by uplifted limestone, steep vegetation-covered sides and sheltered water passages. The surrounding Rock Islands Southern Lagoon is a landmark seascape rather than a single monument, with reefs, channels and mushroom-shaped limestone islands forming the setting for boat travel. The lake’s ecological significance lies in its isolation and changing connection with the sea, while the wider Rock Islands carry cultural importance within Palau’s maritime landscape. There are no substantial buildings, commercial streets or urban monuments at Jellyfish Lake; its significance is geological, ecological and cultural, with access managed to protect the site.

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Explore Jellyfish Lake in Palau, where you can swim alongside millions of harmless jellyfish in a stunning natural paradise.

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Best bars in Jellyfish Lake

Jellyfish Lake has no nightlife, and the Rock Islands are generally visited during daylight hours as a quiet natural environment rather than an entertainment district. Evening drinks and social venues are found mainly in Koror, where hotel bars, restaurants and casual local establishments provide a more developed night-time setting. The atmosphere is generally suited to conversation, dining and recalling the day’s lagoon excursions rather than late-night clubbing, although individual venues and seasonal events vary. Some accommodation providers may offer a bar or evening dining, but facilities are not distributed across the islands. Visitors staying outside Koror should check transport arrangements carefully, since returning from the Rock Islands after dark is not an informal or independent option.

Swimming lake 4.4 (72 reviews)

Jellyfish lake in korror

Experience the magic of swimming with non-stinging jellyfish in the breathtaking Jellyfish Lake of Koror, Palau.

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Best nightclubs in Jellyfish Lake

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Experience the serene beauty of Jellyfish Lake in Palau, where you can swim among thousands of harmless jellyfish in a stunning natural setting.

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Best shops in Jellyfish Lake

There is no shopping at Jellyfish Lake or on Eil Malk, so visitors should obtain water, snacks, sun protection and other essentials before leaving Koror. Shopping in Koror includes practical outdoor and marine supplies, locally made artwork, Palauan cultural items and food products, although the range and authenticity of souvenirs vary between retailers. Traditional crafts and imagery may reflect Palau’s ocean heritage, island landscapes and bai meeting-house traditions, while some shops sell contemporary art, clothing and gifts. Local food markets and businesses can provide regional produce, but opening patterns and stock are not assumed to be consistent. Treat coral, shells, wildlife products and archaeological material with care and do not buy items whose collection may harm protected habitats or cultural heritage. The destination itself is a natural site, not a retail area.

Swimming lake 4.4 (72 reviews)

Jellyfish lake in korror

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Jellyfish Lake in Koror, a unique swimming lake where you can safely swim with non-stinging jellyfish.

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Jellyfish Lake essentials

Currency and Payment

Palau uses the United States dollar (USD). Card and contactless payments are common in larger businesses and established tourism services in Koror, but a remote nature excursion should not be treated like an urban shopping trip. Carry some cash for smaller purchases and contingencies, while arranging permits, tours and equipment requirements in advance. There are no shops or cash machines at Jellyfish Lake, and the island itself provides no opportunity to obtain food, water or money.

Safety

Conditions can change quickly on the water and in the Rock Islands, so follow the boat crew’s instructions and do not enter the lake or lagoon outside permitted areas. The path across Eil Malk may be muddy, uneven and slippery after rain. Protect yourself from tropical sun, drink sufficient water and use care around boats, coral and rocky shorelines. Do not touch jellyfish or other wildlife, and never assume that swimming, snorkelling or other water activities are appropriate during every environmental or weather condition.

Emergency Situations

Palau’s national emergency number is 911 for police, fire or medical assistance. On Eil Malk, immediate help may depend on the excursion boat and the operator’s communication arrangements, so remain with the group and tell the guide promptly about any injury or illness. In an emergency, provide the name of the island, the lake, the boat operator and the planned route, together with a clear description of your location. Serious medical treatment is accessed through facilities in the populated areas, not at Jellyfish Lake.

Do's and Don'ts

Do follow permit conditions, guide instructions and marked access routes, and take all rubbish back with you. Do keep wildlife at a respectful distance, avoid touching jellyfish, and use sun protection that minimises harm to aquatic habitats. Do respect Palau’s marine conservation ethos and the quiet character of the Rock Islands. Do not feed animals, collect coral or shells, stand on reef habitat, leave personal items on the island or enter restricted water. Treat the lake as a protected ecosystem rather than an ordinary swimming pool.

Local Tips

Koror is the practical base for visiting Jellyfish Lake, and a full excursion often combines the lake with other Rock Islands or lagoon activities. Allow more time than the water distance alone suggests because the journey includes loading, boat travel and the island walk. Conditions are often most comfortable when the sun is not at its strongest, but the jellyfish’s movement and visibility depend on daylight and current environmental conditions. Confirm the day’s route, required permits, footwear advice and swimming rules before setting out.

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics

English	Local	Say it
Hello	Alii	[ah-lee]
Goodbye	Klaude	[klow-deh]
Yes	Ongal	[ong-gal]
No	Meleches	[meh-leh-ches]
Please/You're welcome	Cheldecheduch	[chel-deh-cheh-dooch]
Thank you	Ke kmal mesaul	[keh k-mahl meh-sow-ool]
Excuse me/Sorry	Klaud	[klowd]
How are you?	Kemam a kmal?	[keh-mahm ah k-mahl]
Fine. And you?	Chad er a kmal. A ngklek?	[chahd er ah k-mahl. ah ng-lek]
Do you speak English?	Kemam a kmal ousbech er a Belau?	[keh-mahm ah k-mahl ows-behch er ah beh-lao]
I don't understand	A chaung	[ah chow-ng]

Eating & Drinking

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to see the menu, please	Ng diak el mengilt a rechad er a tekoi, cheldecheduch	[ng dee-ak el meng-illt ah reh-chad er ah teh-koy, chel-deh-cheh-dooch]
I don't eat meat	A diak lekau a telkib el chad	[ah dee-ak leh-kow ah teh-lkeeb el chahd]
Cheers!	Kmochel	[k-moh-chel]
I would like to pay, please	Ng diak el melim a rechad er a tekoi, cheldecheduch	[ng dee-ak el meh-leem ah reh-chad er ah teh-koy, chel-deh-cheh-dooch]

Emergencies

English	Local	Say it
Help!	Kmal mla mo kau	[kmahl m-lah moh kow]
Go away!	Kmal melekoi	[kmahl meh-leh-koy]
Call the Police!	Kmal mo chellab a beluu	[kmahl moh chel-lahb ah beh-loo]
Call a doctor!	Kmal mo ungil a berrus	[kmahl moh oong-gil ah beh-roos]
I'm lost	A diak lekau a chad	[ah dee-ak leh-kow ah chahd]
I'm ill	A diak el bebil	[ah dee-ak el beh-beel]

Shopping

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to buy...	Ng diak el kau a...	[ng dee-ak el kow ah...]
I'm just looking	Ng diak el ngarngii a rechad	[ng dee-ak el ngar-ng-ee ah reh-chad]
How much is it?	Kmochel a bung	[k-moh-chel ah boong]
That's too expensive	Te kmo ng meringel	[teh k-moh ng meh-ring-ehl]
Can you lower the price?	Meng diak el menguiu a bung?	[meh-ng dee-ak el meng-wee-oo ah boong]

Time & Numbers

English	Local	Say it
What time is it?	Kmochel a bung	[k-moh-chel ah boong]
It's one o'clock	Kmal meral di teloi	[kmahl meh-rahl dee teh-loh-ee]
Half past (10)	Sesenglel a teloi (10)	[seh-seng-lehl ah teh-loh-ee (10)]
Morning	A rengalek	[ah reh-ngah-lek]
Afternoon	A rekungalek	[ah reh-koo-ngah-lek]
Evening	A rrat a klisichel	[ah r-raht ah klee-see-chel]
Yesterday	A rael a kall	[ah rahl ah kahl]
Today	A rengalek	[ah reh-ngah-lek]
Tomorrow	A rrat a klisichel	[ah r-raht ah klee-see-chel]
1	Remech	[reh-mehch]
2	Dirkair	[deer-kai-er]
3	Telu	[teh-loo]
4	Rau	[row]
5	Ngimel	[ngi-mel]
6	Kuoi	[kwoy]
7	Teluau	[teh-loo-ow]
8	Deluach	[deh-lwach]
9	Kdengar	[kdeh-ngar]
10	Udoud	[oo-dowd]

Transport & Directions

English	Local	Say it
Where's a/the...?	Meng di chudel a...	[meh-ng dee chuh-del ah...]
What's the address?	Kmochel a chesuchel?	[k-moh-chel ah che-soo-chel]
Can you show me (on the map)?	Meng diak el menguiu a rechad er a tekoi?	[meh-ng dee-ak el meng-wee-oo ah reh-chad er ah teh-koy]
When's the next (bus)?	Kmochel a belau a ngarngii?	[k-moh-chel ah beh-lau ah ngar-ng-ee]
A ticket (to ....)	Ng di chudel a tiket (er a...)	[ng dee chuh-del ah tee-ket (er ah...)]

History of Jellyfish Lake

A Former Marine Lagoon

Jellyfish Lake developed within the uplifted limestone landscape of Palau’s Rock Islands. The surrounding karst islands were once part of a marine environment, and geological uplift and changing sea levels left some basins isolated from the open ocean. Water still moves through fissures and underground passages, but the lake is sufficiently enclosed to have developed its own physical and biological characteristics. Its deeper water can become oxygen-poor, while the upper layer receives sunlight that supports the lake’s distinctive jellyfish population.

Palauan Island Heritage

Eil Malk belongs to the Rock Islands, a seascape long known and used by Palauan communities for movement, fishing and the customary relationship between people and ocean. The islands’ narrow channels, reefs and sheltered lagoons formed a natural maritime landscape rather than an isolated wilderness without human history. Jellyfish Lake itself is best understood within this wider Palauan setting, where knowledge of local waters, weather and navigation has shaped relationships with the Rock Islands over generations.

Tourism and Scientific Interest

Jellyfish Lake became one of Palau’s best-known visitor sites as international interest in the Rock Islands and their unusual marine ecosystems grew. Its golden jellyfish attracted divers, swimmers, photographers and marine researchers, while the lake’s isolation made conservation a central part of tourism management. The site demonstrated that a seemingly simple wildlife encounter could depend on complex relationships between sunlight, rainfall, ocean connections and microscopic organisms.

Environmental Fluctuation and Protection

The jellyfish population has changed markedly during periods of unusual climatic conditions, including drought associated with strong El Niño events. Such fluctuations showed the sensitivity of the lake to altered rainfall, evaporation and water balance, and led to periods when swimming access was restricted or carefully managed. Jellyfish Lake now forms part of Palau’s wider protected Rock Islands Southern Lagoon landscape, where visitor access, permitted activities and wildlife protection are intended to reduce pressure on fragile island and marine habitats.

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