Peleliu Island, Palau Travel Guide

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Peleliu Island in Palau, where pristine beaches meet World War II relics and vibrant coral reefs.

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Peleliu Island

Peleliu Island, nestled in the Pacific Ocean, is part of the island nation of Palau. This small island is known for its serene beauty and significant World War II history. As you arrive, you are greeted by pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. The island's natural charm offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Peleliu is a haven for history enthusiasts. The island was the site of a fierce battle during World War II, and remnants of this past are still visible today. You can explore old tanks, planes, and battle sites, providing a glimpse into the island's dramatic history. The Peleliu Peace Memorial Park is a poignant reminder of the island's wartime past and a place for reflection. For nature lovers, Peleliu offers vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkeling and diving in the surrounding waters reveal colorful fish, sea turtles, and stunning underwater landscapes. The island's untouched beauty and biodiversity make it a paradise for eco-tourists and adventurers alike. Whether you're seeking relaxation or exploration, Peleliu Island promises a unique and unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Peleliu Island.

Visit the Peleliu Peace Memorial Park to understand the island's wartime history.
Bring snorkeling or diving gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
Respect the historical sites and relics; they are important parts of the island’s heritage.
Hire a local guide to get insightful information and stories about the island.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystems.

Explore Peleliu Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Peleliu Island

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Long Island Park

Explore the lush landscapes and tranquil beauty of Long Island Park, a must-visit destination in Koror, Palau for nature lovers and adventurers.

4.5

Airai Bai

Explore the serene beauty and rich biodiversity of Airai Bai, a captivating tourist attraction in the heart of Palau's breathtaking landscapes.

4.5

Peleliu World War II Memorial Museum

Discover the profound history of the Battle of Peleliu at the Peleliu World War II Memorial Museum in Palau, a tribute to valor and sacrifice.

3.7

Chandelier Cave

Explore the breathtaking Chandelier Cave in Palau, a natural wonder with stunning limestone formations and vibrant biodiversity.

5.0

Best landmarks in Peleliu Island

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Best Landmarks

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Peleliu Peace Memorial Park

Explore Peleliu Peace Memorial Park, a serene tribute to valor and resilience amid breathtaking views of nature and history.

4.9

Peleliu World War II Memorial Museum

Explore the rich history of the Peleliu World War II Memorial Museum, where artifacts and stories bring the past to life on this historic island.

3.7

81st Infantry Division Memorial

Explore the 81st Infantry Division Memorial in Peleliu, Palau, a significant historical landmark honoring the courage of World War II soldiers amidst stunning natural beauty.

4.8

US Army 323rd Infantry Memorial

Explore the US Army 323rd Infantry Memorial in Peleliu, a solemn tribute to the bravery of soldiers and a significant historical landmark in World War II.

5.0

Best restaurants in Peleliu Island

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Manta Restaurant

Discover authentic Palauan cuisine at Manta Restaurant in Peleliu, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.8

Best bars in Peleliu Island

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Drop Off Bar and Grill

Discover the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Drop Off Bar and Grill, a top seaside restaurant in Koror, Palau, perfect for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.5

The Canoe House

Experience the lively spirit of Palau at The Canoe House, where delicious food meets vibrant nightlife and live music.

4.5

Red Rooster Cafe

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Red Rooster Cafe in Koror, Palau, where local flavors meet friendly hospitality.

4.3

Krämer’s Bar and Restaurant

Experience the authentic flavors of Palau at Krämer’s Bar and Restaurant, where every dish is a celebration of local ingredients and culinary artistry.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Peleliu Island

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Peleliu

Discover Peleliu Island, a tranquil paradise rich in history and marine wonders, perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts.

4.5

Riptide Beach Bar & Grill

Discover the flavors of Palau at Riptide Beach Bar & Grill, where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views in Koror.

4.3

The Adventures Inn-Peleliu

Discover the serene beauty of Peleliu at The Adventures Inn, your gateway to adventure and relaxation in paradise.

4.3

Dolphin Bay Resort & Peleliu Divers

Experience the beauty of Palau at Dolphin Bay Resort, your gateway to relaxation and adventurous diving in breathtaking Peleliu.

4.5

Best shops in Peleliu Island

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Surangel and Sons Co. - Koror

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Surangel and Sons Co. in Koror, where local culture meets modern retail in a charming atmosphere.

4.3

Peleliu Peace Memorial Park

Explore the serene Peleliu Peace Memorial Park, a historical tribute to the Battle of Peleliu, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

4.9

Rur Gift Shop & Cafe

Explore the vibrant culture of Palau at Rur Gift Shop & Cafe, where unique souvenirs and local flavors await every visitor.

4.5

Ben Franklin Department Store

Discover unique treasures at Ben Franklin Department Store, your go-to shopping destination in Medalaii, Palau, for souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts.

3.9

Explore Peleliu Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Peleliu Island, mapped for you.

Peleliu Island Essentials

Peleliu Island is located in the island nation of Palau in the western Pacific Ocean. The nearest international airport is Roman Tmetuchl International Airport in Koror, Palau. From Koror, you can take a domestic flight or a boat to Peleliu Island. Domestic flights are operated by Airai Airport and typically take about 30 minutes. Alternatively, boat services are available, which offer a scenic and leisurely route but take around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Once on Peleliu Island, transportation options are limited but sufficient for the island's small size. Bicycles and scooters are available for rent, providing a convenient way to explore the island. For those who prefer guided tours, there are local operators offering transport via small buses or vans. Walking is also a viable option as many of the island’s attractions are within a short distance of each other.
The official currency in Palau is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. There are limited ATMs on the island, so ensure you withdraw sufficient cash before arriving on Peleliu.
Peleliu Island is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, like any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions: avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on the island.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The island has a small medical clinic that can handle minor health issues. For more serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Koror or international facilities may be necessary. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest police station and the medical clinic upon arrival.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous when using local transport services. Don’t be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or a simple hello. Shaking hands is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Peleliu Island like a local, visit the island's historical sites such as the Peleliu Battlefield, where you can learn about the island's significant role in World War II. Engage with local guides who can provide insightful stories and historical context. Participate in local festivals or events if your visit coincides with them. Try traditional Palauan dishes, such as taro, coconut milk-based dishes, and fresh seafood. Respect the natural environment, especially the pristine beaches and marine life, by adhering to conservation guidelines.

When is the best time to visit Peleliu Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Peleliu Island

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Peleliu Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAlii
  [ah-lee]
- GoodbyeKo ulterakl
  [koh ul-te-ra-kel]
- YesOngalek
  [ong-ah-lek]
- NoCheral
  [cher-al]
- Please/You're welcomeKmal mesaul
  [kem-mal me-sow-ul]
- Thank youSulang
  [soo-lang]
- Excuse me/SorryChais
  [chais]
- How are you?Kemam a kmal mesaul?
  [kem-am ah kem-mal me-sow-ul]
- Fine. And you?Mochochel. A kemam?
  [mo-cho-chel. ah kem-am]
- Do you speak English?Mlomesaul a ngii a rengalek?
  [mlo-me-sow-ul ah ngii ah ren-gah-lek]
- I don't understandA re ngak a diak el kmo
  [ah re-ngak ah dee-ak el kmo]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseA chelid a mla ngar er ngii a mengetmeklek, kemam
  [ah chel-id ah mla ngar er ngii ah men-get-mek-lek kem-am]
- I don't eat meatA re ngak a diak el meringel
  [ah re-ngak ah dee-ak el mer-in-gel]
- Cheers!Ungil tutau
  [ung-gil tu-tow]
- I would like to pay, pleaseA chelid a ngar er ngii a dengerengerir, kemam
  [ah chel-id ah ngar er ngii ah den-ger-en-ger-ir kem-am]
- Help!Kmal meringel!
  [kem-mal mer-in-gel]
- Go away!Diak lebo lmuut
  [dee-ak le-bo l-moot]
- Call the Police!Kmal meringel a rulud
  [kem-mal mer-in-gel ah roo-lud]
- Call a doctor!Kmal meringel a doktor
  [kem-mal mer-in-gel ah dok-tor]
- I'm lostA re ngak a diak el kilie
  [ah re-ngak ah dee-ak el kee-lee]
- I'm illA re ngak a diak el kliou
  [ah re-ngak ah dee-ak el klee-ow]
- I'd like to buy...A chelid a mla ngar er ngii...
  [ah chel-id ah mla ngar er ngii]
- I'm just lookingA re ngak a udoud el kmo
  [ah re-ngak ah oo-dowd el kmo]
- How much is it?Kmal meringel?
  [kem-mal mer-in-gel]
- That's too expensiveA chad er a rengul a diak el kirel
  [ah chad er ah ren-gul ah dee-ak el kee-rel]
- Can you lower the price?Menguiu el kirel?
  [men-gwee-oo el kee-rel]
- What time is it?Kmal meringel a rengul?
  [kem-mal mer-in-gel ah ren-gul]
- It's one o'clockOmelekoi a klengar er a klok
  [oh-mel-ek-oy ah klen-gar er ah klok]
- Half past (10)Mei a klengar er a tuchel a turok
  [may ah klen-gar er ah too-chel ah too-rok]
- MorningNgalek a klengar
  [ngah-lek ah klen-gar]
- AfternoonNgalek a klengar er a ilet
  [ngah-lek ah klen-gar er ah ee-let]
- EveningNgalek a klengar er a rurtel
  [ngah-lek ah klen-gar er ah roor-tel]
- YesterdayA klengar er a chad
  [ah klen-gar er ah chad]
- TodayA klengar er a eanged
  [ah klen-gar er ah ee-ang-ed]
- TomorrowA klengar er a rurt
  [ah klen-gar er ah roort]
- 1Rechad
  [re-chad]
- 2Riik
  [ree-ik]
- 3Telu
  [teh-loo]
- 4Ruu
  [roo]
- 5Ngoru
  [ngoh-roo]
- 6Ono
  [oh-no]
- 7Ilau
  [ee-lau]
- 8Delu
  [deh-loo]
- 9Sanga
  [sang-gah]
- 10Rang
  [rang]
- Where's a/the...?Ng diak el mo er ngii a/the...?
  [ng dee-ak el moh er ngii ah/the]
- What's the address?Kmal meringel a delul a rael?
  [kem-mal mer-in-gel ah deh-lool ah rah-el]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Menguiu el kmo ng diak el mo er ngii (er a map)?
  [men-gwee-oo el kmo ng dee-ak el moh er ngii er ah map]
- When's the next (bus)?Kmal meringel a rengul er a tiket?
  [kem-mal mer-in-gel ah ren-gul er ah tee-ket]
- A ticket (to ....)A tiket er a...
  [ah tee-ket er ah]

History of Peleliu Island

Peleliu Island, part of the Palau archipelago, has been inhabited for thousands of years. The ancient Palauan society was well-known for its unique cultural and social structures, which included matrilineal clans and a complex system of chiefs. Traditional customs such as bai (meeting houses) and stone pathways still echo the island's rich cultural heritage.
The first recorded European contact with Peleliu Island occurred in the 18th century when Spanish explorers arrived. The island, like much of Palau, was later claimed by Spain as part of its colonial empire. However, Spanish influence on the local culture was limited, and the island remained largely isolated from European intervention.
In 1899, following the Spanish-American War, Spain sold Peleliu and the rest of Palau to Germany. German administration focused on economic development, including the introduction of phosphate mining. After World War I, the Treaty of Versailles transferred control of the island to Japan, which continued to develop the island's infrastructure and economy.
One of the most significant historical events on Peleliu Island was the Battle of Peleliu, which took place during World War II from September to November 1944. This intense and brutal conflict between U.S. forces and the Japanese Imperial Army resulted in heavy casualties on both sides. The battle was part of the larger U.S. campaign to retake the Philippines and secure the Pacific theater. Today, remnants of this battle, such as military artifacts and war memorials, can be found across the island.
After World War II, Peleliu, along with the rest of Palau, became part of the United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States. This period saw various economic and social changes, including the introduction of modern education and healthcare systems. The island also began to see more interaction with the outside world, paving the way for future development.
Peleliu, as part of the Republic of Palau, gained full independence on October 1, 1994. Today, the island is a significant historical and cultural site, attracting visitors interested in its rich history and natural beauty. The local community continues to preserve traditional practices while embracing modernity, making Peleliu a unique blend of the past and present.