Palau

Palau, one of the most beautiful dive sites in Micronesia, is located approximately 800 miles west of Guam. Scuba divers can experience the thrill of diving close to reef sharks, the luxury of drifting in the ocean currents along walls covered in colorful coral, and the opportunity to float in a sea of jellyfish in Palau. Palau is known for its drift diving. Palau diving should be at the very top of anyone's bucket list, with over 1400 species of fish, 500 species of healthy coral, and large pelagic action. Whale sharks, eagle rays, turtles, reef sharks, and the occasional hammerhead are just a few of the amazing species of marine life that can be found in this Micronesian archipelago.

After World War I, Japan occupied Palau and encouraged Japanese immigration until World War II, when the United States took control of the territory. Wreck diving is popular here because of the well-preserved WWII wrecks. Palau can be dived all year, but the dry season, from October to May, is the best time. The water temperature is usually warm, ranging from 81 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (27 to 30 degrees Celsius), and a 3mm wetsuit will keep you warm all year.

Location: about 800 miles west of Guam, Federated States of Micronesia