Airai

Airai is Palau's second most populous settlement and serves as the nation's primary international gateway, housing the Roman Tmetuchl International Airport. Located on the southern tip of Babeldaob Island, it is a region of immense cultural significance and economic importance. The crown jewel of its heritage is the historic Airai Bai, a traditional meeting house for men that dates back over a century. Built without a single nail, its beams and gables are adorned with intricate carvings and paintings that tell the foundational legends of Palauan society. Airai has a unique blend of modern convenience and deep-rooted tradition, where contemporary infrastructure exists alongside ancient stone paths and sacred clan sites. The area is also home to significant relics from World War II, providing a somber reminder of the Pacific conflict. For visitors, Airai is an essential stop to appreciate the architectural ingenuity of the Micronesian people and to explore the lush landscapes and traditional village life that define the southern reaches of Palau's largest island.

Nearby cities

Koror Business District

This district forms the economic heart of Palau.

Koror

Koror is the most populous city in Palau and served as the national capital until 2006.

Meyuns

Meyuns is a significant village located on Ngerekebesang Island.

Kloulklubed

Kloulklubed is the main village on Peleliu Island.

Ulimang

Ulimang is the administrative center of Ngaraard State on Babeldaob.

Mengellang

Mengellang is the main village of Ngarchelong State at the northern tip of Babeldaob.

Ngerulmud Administrative Center

As the seat of government, Ngerulmud is the center for public spending and national administration.

Ngerulmud

Ngerulmud has been the capital of Palau since 2006.

Ngchesar

Ngchesar is a quiet settlement on the east coast of Babeldaob.

Melekeok

Melekeok is a village on the east coast of Babeldaob.

Aimeliik

Aimeliik is a settlement in southwestern Babeldaob.

Ngiwal

Ngiwal is a village in eastern Babeldaob.

Ngardmau

Ngardmau is a settlement on the west coast of Babeldaob.

Angaur

Angaur is the main settlement on the island of the same name in southern Palau.

Kayangel

Kayangel is the northernmost inhabited settlement in Palau, located on a coral atoll.

History & landmarks

Palau National Stadium

The Palau National Stadium in Koror is the main venue for sporting events and national celebrations in the country.

Bai ra Airai

This traditional meeting house, over 130 years old, is the oldest of its kind in Palau and a major cultural monument.

Nature

🗺️

Ngermid Bay

A sheltered bay featuring high coral diversity, notably resilient to higher water temperatures.

Ngerekebesang Hill

Ngerekebesang Hill is the highest elevation on Ngerekebesang Island.

Malakal Peak

This hill on Malakal Island overlooks the most important harbor in Palau.

🗺️

Ngaremeduu Bay

Ngaremeduu Bay is the largest estuary and mangrove ecosystem in Palau.

Ngaremeduu Conservation Area

This area encompasses the largest estuarine ecosystem in Palau, featuring mangrove forests and seagrass beds.

More places

Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge

This bridge connects the islands of Koror and Babeldaob and is a vital transport artery.

Koror-Babeldaob Bridge

The KB Bridge is the nation's most vital transport artery.

Airai Solar Farm

This solar farm represents Palau's commitment to renewable energy.

Etpison Museum

The Etpison Museum documents Palauan cultural heritage through artifacts and historic photos.

Japanese Communications Center

This ruin of a massive reinforced concrete building in Airai served as a communications hub for the Japanese military during WWII.

Airai Stone Path

The Airai Stone Path is a historic connecting road made of large stone slabs.

Roman Catholic Church of Koror

The Catholic church in the center of Koror is an important religious gathering place for the local population.

Airai Bai

The Airai Bai is a traditional men's meeting house over 170 years old.