Melekeok in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Melekeok

30°C (86°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

318 mm (12.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Cooler ocean temperatures (26-27°C/79-81°F) make snorkeling and diving comfortable for extended periods - local dive operators report December has the best underwater visibility
December marks the beginning of Palau's dry season transition, meaning fewer all-day rain events and more predictable afternoon shower patterns that locals time their activities around
Tourist season hasn't peaked yet - major sites like the Palau and Palau have 40% fewer visitors compared to January-March, allowing for more intimate experiences
Traditional Palauan fishing season peaks in December, offering visitors authentic cultural experiences with local communities and access to the freshest seafood at village markets

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 60% of days between 2-4 PM, requiring flexible scheduling and indoor backup plans - many outdoor tours adjust departure times to 7 AM starts
Humidity levels at 70% combined with 30°C (86°F) temperatures create challenging conditions for hiking and inland activities during midday hours
December accommodation prices are 25-30% higher than November due to holiday travelers, and popular dive operators often book solid 2-3 weeks ahead

Best Activities in December

Rock Islands Kayaking and Snorkeling Tours

December's calm morning waters and excellent visibility (20-25 m/66-82 ft) make this the ideal time for exploring Palau's UNESCO World Heritage limestone islands. Morning departures (7-11 AM) avoid afternoon storms while experiencing peak marine life activity. Water temperature of 27°C (81°F) allows for comfortable extended snorkeling without thick wetsuits.

Booking Tip: Book 10-14 days ahead as December fills quickly. Tours typically cost $120-180 USD per person. Look for operators offering morning departures and weather guarantees. Most reputable operators provide lunch and snorkeling gear.

Jellyfish Lake Swimming Experiences

December water temperatures and increased jellyfish population density create optimal conditions for this unique bioswimming experience. Morning visits (8-10 AM) offer the best jellyfish activity and clearest water before afternoon weather patterns develop. The 30-minute hike to the lake is manageable in cooler morning temperatures.

Booking Tip: Requires special permit ($100 USD for 10 days) plus tour costs of $80-120 USD. Book through licensed operators only - permits are limited and December is popular. See current availability in booking section below.

WWII Historical Site Tours

December's frequent afternoon showers make covered historical sites ideal during midday hours. Palau battlefield tours and Japanese bunker explorations provide fascinating indoor/covered alternatives when weather turns. December marks the anniversary period of several Pacific War battles, adding historical significance.

Booking Tip: Full-day Palau tours cost $180-250 USD including boat transport. Morning departures essential to complete outdoor portions before afternoon storms. Licensed historical guides provide depth that independent visits cannot match.

Traditional Village Cultural Experiences

December fishing season brings village life to its most authentic - visitors can join morning fishing expeditions, learn traditional net-making, and participate in evening community meals. The Palauan Christmas preparation period offers unique cultural fusion experiences unavailable other times of year.

Booking Tip: Community-based tourism experiences range $50-100 USD per person. Book through cultural centers or ask accommodation for connections to authentic village programs. Afternoon indoor activities perfect for December weather patterns.

Diving Expeditions to Blue Corner and German Channel

December marks peak season for manta ray encounters at Palau, with 80% sighting rates compared to 40% other months. Micronesia's strong currents bring exceptional shark activity. Morning dive conditions are consistently excellent before afternoon weather develops.

Booking Tip: Advanced open water certification required for these sites. Two-tank morning dives cost $130-180 USD. Book with PADI 5-star operators for safety and quality. December books solid, so reserve 2-3 weeks ahead.

Ngardmau Waterfall Hiking

December rains fill Palau's highest waterfall (30 m/98 ft) to peak flow while morning temperatures (24-26°C/75-79°F) make the 45-minute jungle hike comfortable. The swimming hole at the base offers perfect cooling after hiking, and afternoon storms provide dramatic backdrop for photography.

Booking Tip: Self-guided access costs $20 USD entry fee, guided tours $60-80 USD. Start before 9 AM to complete before afternoon storms. Bring quick-dry clothing and waterproof camera protection. Local guides know seasonal trail conditions best.

December Events & Festivals

Mid to Late December

Palauan Christmas Cultural Festival

Unique blend of traditional Palauan customs with Christian celebrations, featuring local choirs, traditional dancing, and community feasts. Villages throughout Palau open their celebrations to respectful visitors, offering insight into modern Palauan culture.

Early December

Traditional First Fishing Ceremony

Communities perform traditional blessings for December fishing season launch. Visitors can observe respectful ceremonies and sometimes join community members for traditional net fishing demonstrations. Cultural significance combines practical fishing knowledge with ancestral customs.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry hiking pants and long-sleeve UV shirts - December humidity makes cotton uncomfortable, but you need coverage for 20+ m (65+ ft) jungle hikes and UV index 8 sun exposure

Lightweight rain jacket with good ventilation - afternoon storms last 20-30 minutes but can be intense, and you'll overheat in non-breathable gear at 70% humidity

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ (mineral-based zinc or titanium) - required by law in Palau and essential with UV index 8; chemical sunscreens result in fines

Quick-dry towel and waterproof dry bag (20L minimum) - December activities involve constant wet/dry transitions, and afternoon storms can soak regular towels instantly

Comfortable water shoes with good grip - volcanic rock and coral areas are sharp, and December rain makes surfaces slippery; flip-flops inadequate for most activities

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - December rains increase mosquito activity in jungle areas and evening hours; dengue fever present year-round in Palau

Underwater camera with good low-light capability - December's excellent visibility (20-25 m/66-82 ft) offers best underwater photography opportunities of the year

Lightweight daypack (25-30L) with waterproof cover - December tours often involve multiple activities and weather changes; need space for snorkel gear, extra clothes, and rain protection

Cash in USD small bills ($1, $5, $10) - many local operators and village experiences prefer cash; credit cards not widely accepted outside major hotels

Basic first aid kit including seasickness remedies - December boat trips can be choppy during weather transitions; basic medical supplies limited outside Palau

Insider Knowledge

Local fishing boats depart Palau at 5:30 AM daily during December season - ask your accommodation to arrange a spot for authentic cultural experience and best seafood purchases before tourist boats launch

December afternoon storms follow predictable patterns: clouds build from southwest around 1 PM, storms hit 2-4 PM, then clear by 5 PM - locals schedule all outdoor activities before 1 PM or after 5 PM

Palau's mandatory tourist taxes and permits total $130 USD per person (Environmental Fee $50, Palau Permit $50, Departure Tax $30) - pay these immediately upon arrival to avoid delays accessing dive sites and protected areas

Village stores in Palau and Palau sell identical items to Palau shops for 40% less cost - stock up on snacks, water, and basic supplies during cultural tours rather than paying resort prices

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking afternoon boat tours in December - 60% chance of weather cancellation between 2-4 PM; all experienced operators recommend morning departures but tourists often choose afternoon for convenience

Bringing only cotton clothing for December's 70% humidity - cotton stays wet and becomes uncomfortable quickly; synthetic or merino wool materials essential for comfort during frequent wet/dry transitions

Assuming December is 'dry season' like other tropical destinations - Palau's weather patterns are unique, and December still averages 10 rainy days with significant humidity requiring different preparation