Swim with Jellyfish in Palau: A Unique and Safe Adventure
Palau, a hidden gem in the South Pacific, is often overshadowed by more famous destinations like Fiji, Bora Bora, or the Cook Islands. But if you’re looking for a peaceful, beautiful escape, this island paradise—home to over 500 tropical islands—is the perfect getaway.
One of Palau’s most incredible attractions is Jellyfish Lake, located on Eil Malk Island. This marine lake is famous for its millions of golden jellyfish that migrate across the water each day. And yes, you can swim with them!
The Jellyfish Lake Story
Jellyfish Lake is a fascinating natural wonder, over 12,000 years old. It formed during the last ice age, when rising sea levels flooded a basin, trapping jellyfish and other creatures inside. As the glaciers receded, the species in the lake became isolated, evolving into unique forms.
At its peak in 2005, there were around 30 million jellyfish in the lake, though the population had declined significantly by 2016. Thankfully, numbers are now rising again, and scientists are optimistic about the lake’s future.
Swimming with Jellyfish: A Sting-Free Experience
The best part? The jellyfish in Jellyfish Lake don’t sting. Over time, they’ve lost their stingers because they feed on algae growing on their bodies. Since they don’t need their stingers to catch food, you can swim with them without worrying about getting stung.
The jellyfish migrate from one side of the lake to the other twice a day, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to swim among millions of them as they glide through the water. It’s a surreal experience, and while it’s one of Palau’s most popular attractions, the lake never feels overcrowded.
However, keep in mind that scuba diving is not allowed in the lake for two reasons: First, the bubbles from scuba tanks can harm the jellyfish, and second, the deeper parts of the lake contain high levels of hydrogen sulfide, which is toxic to humans.
How to Visit Jellyfish Lake
Jellyfish Lake is located on Eil Malk Island in Palau’s Rock Islands, about a 45-minute boat ride from Koror. While a day tour typically costs between $100–200 USD, the price for a 10-day swimming pass to the lake is $100 USD (not included in most tours).
Traveling to Palau can be expensive. A round-trip flight from the Philippines costs around $800 USD, while flights from Guam are slightly cheaper at about $600 USD.
When visiting, make sure to bring eco-friendly sunscreen. Harsh chemicals can harm the lake’s delicate ecosystem, so only use products labeled as safe for marine life.
Jellyfish Lake FAQ
- How long should I spend at Jellyfish Lake?
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours in the lake, though you can stay longer if you wish. - What types of jellyfish live in the lake?
The lake is home to two types of jellyfish: Golden jellyfish and Moon jellyfish. Neither of them can sting. - Is Jellyfish Lake open to the public?
Yes, Jellyfish Lake is open to visitors as of 2022. - Is it safe to swim with the jellyfish?
Yes, swimming is completely safe since the jellyfish don’t sting. Just remember not to dive deep due to the hydrogen sulfide at the bottom. - Can I wear sunscreen?
Only eco-friendly sunscreen is allowed. Harsh sunscreens are banned, and they’ll be confiscated.
If you’re looking for something unique and unforgettable, a trip to Jellyfish Lake in Palau is a must. Swim alongside millions of beautiful jellyfish in one of the most peaceful places on earth—without the worry of getting stung! Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience.
