Palau

Located in the western Pacific Ocean, Palau is an archipelago of over 300 islands known for their distinctive geology and rich marine biodiversity. For families, it serves as a massive, open-air aquarium where nature is the primary attraction. The destination is best suited for school-aged children and teenagers who are comfortable swimming, as most activities involve boat rides and water exploration. The iconic Rock Islands, limestone formations topped with dense jungle that rise vertically from the turquoise sea, provide a calm and protected environment for snorkeling and kayaking.

The highlight for most young travelers is a visit to Ongeim'l Tketau (Jellyfish Lake). After a steep hike through the forest, families can snorkel in an isolated marine lake filled with millions of golden jellyfish. Having evolved without predators, these creatures have lost their sting, allowing children to swim right through the pulsating school without fear. Another favorite stop is the Milky Way, a shallow lagoon with a floor of white limestone mud. Guides often encourage families to scoop up the mud and cover themselves in it for a natural spa treatment, a fun and messy activity that usually results in memorable holiday photos.

Palau protects its environment aggressively, providing a unique educational angle for visiting families. Upon arrival, every visitor must sign the Palau Pledge, a promise stamped directly into passports to act as a warden of the islands. This sets a tone of respect and responsibility throughout the trip. Parents should be aware that Palau enforces a strict ban on distinct sunscreen ingredients that harm coral reefs; families must bring or buy reef-safe sunscreen to comply with local laws.

Beyond the water, the Belau National Museum in Koror offers insight into the local matriarchal culture and history. Food options in the main town of Koror are diverse, ranging from fresh local seafood and taro to American and Japanese cuisine, making it relatively easy to feed picky eaters. Families should note that getting around requires booking day tours with boat operators, and the tropical climate is hot and humid year-round. While not a destination for resort-style kids' clubs, Palau rewards active families with some of the clearest water and most accessible marine life on the planet.