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Helen Reef Marine Protected Area

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

Helen Reef Marine Protected Area (Palau)

Weather…

Helen Reef is a remote atoll located approximately 70 kilometers south of Hatohobei, forming the southernmost part of Palau's territory. As a Marine Protected Area (MPA) covering about 160 square kilometers, it protects a pristine coral reef system and a large central lagoon. The reef is of vital international importance, serving as one of the most significant nesting sites for green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles in the Western Pacific. Additionally, the atoll's small sand cays provide critical breeding grounds for thousands of seabirds, including boobies and terns. Due to its extreme isolation and vulnerability to poaching, the site is continuously monitored by a dedicated ranger station stationed on the reef. The high coral diversity and the abundance of large pelagic fish, such as sharks and jacks, make Helen Reef an essential site for marine biological research and a cornerstone of regional ocean conservation efforts.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.

	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	174	141	166	126	199	260	241	167	134	122	149	165

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The best time to visit Helen Reef is the dry season from November to April, when the sea is calmer and underwater visibility is clear. During the rainy season, wind and waves can make the journey difficult, but turtles are present year-round.

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Best time of day

Early morning, turtles are often seen at the water surface breathing. Late morning and early afternoon are good for snorkeling or diving when the sun is high and illuminates the reefs well.

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Etiquette

Keep distance from turtles - do not touch or chase them to avoid stressing them. Collecting corals, shells or other marine life is strictly prohibited in the marine protected area.

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What to bring

Snorkeling or diving gear is necessary to explore the atoll's underwater world. An underwater camera with flash helps capture the colors of corals and turtles, especially at greater depths.

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Getting there

Helen Reef lies in the far south of Palau, about 600 km from Koror, and is accessible only by boat or yacht on a multi-day expedition. Special dive safaris are organized by professional operators in Koror.

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What to expect

Turtles can stay underwater for long periods - watch the spots where they surface and wait patiently. Currents around the reef can be strong, so it's important to have an experienced guide and not overexert yourself.