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Angaur Island
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Angaur is the southernmost inhabited island of Palau, standing apart from the rest of the archipelago due to its unique geological structure and ecological history. Unlike its neighbors, Angaur is not protected by a barrier reef, leaving its coral limestone shores exposed to the full force of the Pacific Ocean's swells and powerful currents. The island is most famous for its wild population of macaque monkeys, which are not native to Palau but were likely introduced during the German phosphate mining era in the early 20th century. These monkeys have since flourished in the island's dense forests. Historically, Angaur was a major hub for phosphate extraction, and the landscape is still dotted with the remnants of old mines and industrial machinery from the German and Japanese administrations. Today, the island has a rugged and authentic experience, with secluded beaches and dramatic coastal views. Its relative isolation has allowed for a quiet, traditional way of life to persist, making it a compelling destination for those seeking wildlife and historical exploration away from the typical tourist routes.
- Location: Palau
- Top sights: Elechol Ra Nguruhei · Our Lady of the Rosary Church · Elechol Ra Ngmersau
- Nearby: Kloulklubed (17 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 207 | 194 | 182 | 159 | 264 | 316 | 343 | 269 | 248 | 203 | 215 | 227 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Angaur Island is typically reached via a scheduled state ferry or a short domestic flight from Koror, landing at the island's small airstrip, with further exploration done on foot or bicycle.
Best season
Planning a visit is usually most rewarding during the drier season from February to April, offering calmer seas for the ferry crossing and more pleasant conditions for outdoor exploration.
Terrain & paths
The island features a relatively flat landscape predominantly composed of rugged coral limestone, interspersed with dense vegetation and historical ruins, requiring careful footing on uneven ground.
What to bring
Visitors should pack comfortable walking shoes suitable for rocky limestone surfaces, sun protection, adequate drinking water, and a camera to capture the wild monkeys and coastal scenery.
Parking
Transportation on the island is highly limited; there is generally no need for car parking as most visitors explore the compact limestone island primarily on foot, by bicycle, or with a local guide.
Safety
It is generally advised to maintain a respectful distance from the wild monkey population and to exercise caution when walking over sharp coral limestone rocks or near historical wartime remnants.
Time needed
A comprehensive visit to the island typically takes a full day, allowing enough time to explore the southern coastal areas, observe the local wildlife, and visit the historical German lighthouse.
Geography
Facts
- Phosphate mining activities took place between 1909 and 1955
- Angaur is the only place in Palau where Japanese is an official language
- The island covers a total land area of approximately 8.4 square kilometers
- The island's macaque monkeys were originally introduced from Southeast Asia
- Angaur lacks a protective barrier reef lagoon, exposing it to the open sea
- The island was captured by US forces in 1944 during World War II
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Angaur Island (4)
Elechol Ra Uchul A Kerekar
A beach on Angaur Island.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are there beaches here?
Yes, Angaur has some secluded and very quiet beaches.
Why are there monkeys there?
They were introduced by German workers during the mining era.
Can you stay overnight on Angaur?
Yes, there are some basic accommodations for tourists.
How long is the flight from Koror?
The flight takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Is the place suitable for surfers?
Yes, there are good waves on certain coastal stretches for experienced surfers.
Angaur Island: where is it located?
Angaur Island is located in Palau.
Angaur Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Elechol Ra Nguruhei, Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Elechol Ra Ngmersau.
Angaur Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Angaur Island: why is it worth visiting?
Angaur is the southernmost inhabited island of Palau, standing apart from the rest of the archipelago due to its unique geological structure and ecological history.
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Nearby cities
Koror
Koror is the most populous city in Palau and served as the national capital until 2006.
Koror Business District
This district forms the economic heart of Palau.
Airai
Airai is the second most populous settlement in Palau.
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.
History & landmarks
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Angaur Hills
The Angaur Hills are elevations on the southernmost inhabited island of Palau.
German Channel
This artificial channel was created during the German colonial period to allow the transport of phosphate from the southern lagoons.
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Ngerukewid Cliffs
These steep limestone walls rise vertically from the turquoise water.
Rock Islands (Chelbacheb)
The Rock Islands are an archipelago of limestone formations in the ocean.
Nature
Bloody Nose Ridge
This rugged limestone ridge on Peleliu was a strategic point during World War II.
Blue Corner
One of the world's most famous diving sites with immense fish density.
Ngerumekaol Spawning Channel
A critical habitat for groupers during their spawning season.
Carp Island Reserve
A crescent-shaped island with rich coral gardens and mangroves.
Ngerukewid Islands (70 Islands)
A strictly protected wildlife preserve within the Rock Islands.
Jellyfish Lake
An isolated marine lake on Eil Malk island.
More places
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Angaur Forest Reserve
The island of Angaur possesses dense forests that are home to macaques originally introduced by the Germans.
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Angaur Lighthouse
This historic lighthouse is located on Angaur island and dates back to the phosphate mining era.
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Angaur Battlefield
In September 1944, this island was the scene of fierce fighting between the US 81st Infantry Division and Japanese defenders.
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Angaur Harbor
This harbor is the sole supply artery for Palau's southernmost inhabited island.
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Peleliu Peace Memorial
This memorial was erected by Japan to commemorate the dead of the Battle of Peleliu and to promote peace.
Peleliu WWII Memorial
The memorial honors the fierce battles between the USA and Japan in 1944.
German Lighthouse
The German lighthouse on Peleliu was built during the German colonial period in the early 20th century.
Orange Beach
On this section of beach on Peleliu, the first US Marines landed on September 15, 1944, under heavy Japanese fire.