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Peleliu Island
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Peleliu is a low-lying coral island located at the southern tip of the Palau archipelago, characterized by its unique geological makeup of uplifted coral limestone. While the island is primarily known for the intense World War II battles fought in 1944, it is also a site of remarkable natural biodiversity. The island's terrain features rugged limestone ridges, such as the infamous Bloody Nose Ridge, which are now covered in thick tropical jungle and provide a habitat for rare orchid species. Its coastline is a mix of extensive mangrove forests and pristine sandy beaches that lead into some of the clearest waters in the Pacific. Surrounded by an expansive barrier reef system, Peleliu has world-class diving opportunities with an incredible density of marine life. This blend of poignant military history and flourishing tropical wilderness makes Peleliu a unique destination where nature is slowly reclaiming the scars of the past, creating a peaceful sanctuary for wildlife and visitors alike.
- Location: Palau
- Top sights: Five Brothers · Elechol Ra Ngerikl · Bulldozer Wreck
- Nearby: Angaur (15 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 | 216 | 198 | 184 | 177 | 285 | 338 | 381 | 286 | 275 | 232 | 236 | 257 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This historically significant coral island is best reached via the domestic ferry or a speedboat tour from Koror. The journey is generally well-organized.
Best season
Visiting is highly recommended during the drier months from February to April to avoid heavy rainfall while exploring the dense mangroves and forest trails.
Terrain & paths
The island is largely flat and fringed by extensive mangrove forests. The interior landscape features a reliable network of both unpaved and paved pathways.
What to bring
Sturdy footwear is highly advisable for navigating the rocky trails and historic sites. A strong insect repellent and ample drinking water are truly essential.
Parking
Vehicles can usually be left in Koror, as renting bicycles or joining guided tours is common on the island. Ferry terminals generally provide safe parking.
Safety
It is absolutely crucial to stay on marked trails, as remote forest areas might still conceal old war relics. Always be mindful of the changing ocean tides.
Time needed
To comprehensively explore the island and its sights, you should allocate at least one full day. Many visitors also choose to stay overnight for a fuller experience.
Geography
Facts
- The Battle of Peleliu took place from September to November 1944
- Kloulklubed is the main village and administrative center of the island
- The island covers a land area of approximately 13 square kilometers
- Over 10,000 Japanese soldiers died defending the island during WWII
- The US military utilized the island as an airbase after its capture
- Numerous cave systems served as underground bunkers during the conflict
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 Peleliu Island (10)
WWII Tanks
Abandoned Japanese tanks from WWII on Peleliu.
US Marine Corps Memorial
A memorial for fallen US Marines on Peleliu.
Peleliu Shrine
A Shinto shrine on Peleliu Island.
Rois Kar
A mountain ridge on Peleliu Island.
Japanese Air Traffic Control Tower
Ruins of a Japanese WWII control tower on Peleliu.
Peliliu World War II Memorial Museum🏛 museum
Museum with exhibits on the Battle of Peleliu.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Peleliu important for history?
Yes, the island was a major battlefield in World War II.
How to get to Peleliu?
Regular boats run daily from Koror.
Can you see wrecks?
Yes, there are numerous WWII relics both on land and while diving.
Do I need a guide?
A guide is highly recommended for a tour of the historical sites.
Is the island big?
It is manageable; bicycles are the best mode of transport.
Peleliu Island: where is it located?
Peleliu Island is located in Palau.
Peleliu Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Five Brothers, Elechol Ra Ngerikl, Bulldozer Wreck.
Peleliu Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Peleliu Island: why is it worth visiting?
Peleliu is a low-lying coral island located at the southern tip of the Palau archipelago, characterized by its unique geological makeup of uplifted coral limestone.
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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
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.
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Angaur Hills
The Angaur Hills are elevations on the southernmost inhabited island of Palau.
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.
Carp Island Reserve
A crescent-shaped island with rich coral gardens and mangroves.
Ngerumekaol Spawning Channel
A critical habitat for groupers during their spawning season.
Blue Corner
One of the world's most famous diving sites with immense fish density.
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
Peleliu Battlefield
This historic area preserves remains of the intense 1944 combat, including Japanese bunkers and American tanks.
Peleliu South Harbor
Peleliu South Harbor is the island's logistical hub.
Orange Beach
On this section of beach on Peleliu, the first US Marines landed on September 15, 1944, under heavy Japanese fire.
German Lighthouse
The German lighthouse on Peleliu was built during the German colonial period in the early 20th century.
Peleliu WWII Memorial
The memorial honors the fierce battles between the USA and Japan in 1944.
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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.
Rock Islands Southern Lagoon
This UNESCO heritage site comprises hundreds of limestone islands.
Rock Islands
The Rock Islands are a collection of over 200 limestone islands in Palau.