Image by Palau Pacific Resort

Palau Pacific Resort, Micronesia

With world-class diving and plenty of other recreational choices in an idyllic setting, the Palau Pacific Resort combines the allure of an ancient culture with the tranquility of its natural environs to make this destination the perfect choice for a romantic getaway. The resort is nestled among 64 acres of lush tropical gardens along the western shore of Arakabesang hamlet in Koror, the capital of the 343 rock islands that comprise the Micronesian nation known as the Republic of Palau.
 
The 1,000-foot-long stretch of white- sand beach and the freshwater swimming pool are perfect places for couples to spend time together. You can also spend your nondiving time visiting Koror, windsurfing or kayaking, playing tennis or hiking a nature trail. Or perhaps you prefer to pamper yourselves and remain in your bungalow — the perfect place to catch a sunset — and order room service, followed by a massage.
 
The staff at Palau Pacific Resort are especially proud of their cuisine, offering choices that range from sushi to an exotic mixture of Asian, North American and local entrees.
 
For many years the stunning walls, high-voltage current and superb water conditions at legendary sites such as Blue Corner, Peleliu Corner, German Channel, Blue Holes and Ngemelis Drop-off have put Palau high on the list of world-class dive destinations. Sheer walls rise dramatically from the depths to within inches of the surface, and the pristine coral reefs of these prolific waters teem with more than 1,300 species of fish and 700 types of magnificent hard and soft corals. Palau's water is highly acclaimed for its biodiversity and encounters with large pelagics, especially in the current-swept passes that overflow with sharks, manta rays and unbelievably dense schools of barracudas, jacks and other fish.
 
The majority of the diving in Palau is drift diving along the walls, plateaus and coral gardens of the outside reefs with dive operators like Sam's Dive Tours (www.samstours.com), a PADI 5 Star IDC, Fish 'n Fins (www.fishnfins.com), NECO Marine (www.necomarine.com), PADI Gold Palm IDCs and the on-site dive operation. Any of these quality operators will pick you up directly from the Palau Pacific dock. And don't underestimate the unforgettable boat rides through Palau's scenic rock islands on your way back from these legendary sites.