Find the best markets, malls, and unique souvenirs in Palau.
Palau is a pristine Pacific paradise featuring the legendary Rock Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 200 limestone and coral islands covered in lush greenery. This small nation offers world-class diving, the famous Jellyfish Lake where you can swim among millions of harmless jellyfish, and some of the most biodiverse marine environments on Earth.
Unique local products worth bringing home.
Hand-carved wooden panels depicting traditional Palauan legends and sea life. Palau's most iconic souvenir, made by local artisans in Koror.
Replicas of traditional Palauan money beads (udoud) fashioned into necklaces and bracelets. These patterned glass beads hold deep cultural significance.
Colorful bags featuring traditional Palauan patterns of sea turtles, jellyfish, and Rock Islands. Lightweight and practical for travelers.
Watercolor and acrylic paintings by Palauan artists depicting underwater scenes, Rock Islands, and marine life. Unique artworks to take home.
Handwoven baskets made from dried pandanus leaves in traditional patterns. Women in villages craft these during community gatherings.
Locally produced coconut oil, coconut candy, and coconut shell crafts. Pure Palauan coconut oil is used in traditional healing and beauty routines.
Branded shirts celebrating Palau's famous environmental pledge. The pledge symbol is embroidered on quality cotton shirts in various colors.
Experience authentic local shopping culture.
The main market in Palau's capital where local vendors sell fresh tropical produce, fish, flowers, and traditional foods. Best visited early morning when vendors arrive with the day's freshest goods and the atmosphere is most lively.
The largest commercial shopping complex in Palau, selling groceries, electronics, clothing, and household goods. A department store style layout makes this the one-stop shop for both locals and visitors restocking supplies.
Palau's most established retail store selling everything from fresh food and alcohol to clothing, souvenirs, and diving supplies. The ground floor grocery section stocks local and imported products for self-catering visitors.
Bargaining phrases, souvenir recommendations, and budget tips.
Where to find different types of shops.
The commercial heart of Palau with a concentration of souvenir shops, restaurants, dive shops, and service businesses along a few walkable blocks. Most visitors do the majority of their shopping within this compact area.
Cluster of dive operators and marine equipment shops around Malakal Island. Several dive shops stock high-quality underwater cameras, masks, fins, and dive computers at competitive prices.
Palau Pacific Resort, Palau Royal Resort, and West Plaza by the Sea each have gift shops with premium Palauan crafts, branded clothing, and locally produced products. Prices are higher but quality is consistently good.
Air-conditioned shopping options.
How to negotiate prices in local markets.
Fixed prices are standard in all shops and markets in Palau - bargaining is not customary
Ask dive operators about package deals combining accommodation, diving, and equipment rental for significant savings
Storyboard prices vary widely based on size and artist reputation - compare at multiple shops before buying
Resort gift shops charge premiums of 30-50% over market prices for identical items
What you need to know about taking purchases home.
Do not export sea turtle products, black coral, or protected marine specimens - airport customs strictly enforces this with heavy fines
No VAT refund system in Palau - all prices are final at point of sale
Palau airport duty-free store sells alcohol, tobacco, and cosmetics at reduced prices on departure; limits apply per destination country
DHL and FedEx offer international shipping from Koror; large storyboards can be shipped safely with proper packaging arranged by most vendors
Get our complete shopping guide with bargaining phrases, quality assessment tips, and budget planner.
Download Shopping Guide