Palau is one of those places that seems almost unreal. It’s pristine, epic, other-worldly. It’s almost unbelievable. So, you’ll want a reminder for when you get home, right? Palau has some of the most beautiful–and most useful–products of any country I’ve visited. Whether you’re looking for gifts for friends and family, or a little something for yourself (or both!), here are the best souvenirs to buy in Palau.
Storyboards
These carvings are fascinating, stunning, and truly works of art. Palauan storyboards have always depicted myths, legends, and Palauan culture, but as tourism became more prominent, the storyboards also became more elaborate and refined. Now, you’ll find them in shops all over Micronesia. The story is often told within the shape of a fish, sea turtle, dugong, manta ray, etc., as well as the more traditional, rectangular storyboards. If you take one of these beautiful pieces home with you, it will be one of the most unique conversation starters you’ll ever have.
More here: What to Know Before You Visit Palau
Coconut Products
.If there is anything Palau is known for, it’s coconut! My hotel, Palau Pacific Resort, even had a coconut oil making demonstration for guests. You’ll find coconut candies, coconut oils, coconut soaps, and crafts made from coconut shells. Coconut is deeply ingrained in Palauan culture, as they use the trees and every part of the coconut for food, hydration, tools, shelter, beauty treatments, and medicines. Coconut oil is one of the most popular items to buy in Palau, and one of the best ways to fondly remember your trip once you get back home.
Essential reading for travelers: The Ultimate Guide to Solid Toiletries for Travelers
Woven Baskets
These might be a little challenging to pack, but once they arrive at your home, they’ll be the most useful things you could buy in Palau! The skills in making woven palm leaf baskets have traditionally been passed from mother to daughter, and over the millennia, the art has grown beyond simply utilitarian to decorative. You’ll see expertly woven items with colors throughout, as well as geometric patterns that add to their beauty. You can find small bowls, catch-all baskets (perfect by your front door to catch keys and mail), or larger baskets for things like blankets, towels, etc.
Photo Credit: Palau.co
Read on: What to Do with a Baby in Palau
Sea Glass Jewelry
This was an unexpected delight! I love to pick up a piece of jewelry wherever I travel, so when I saw the sea glass pieces at the Palau Aquarium gift shop, I knew I needed one in my life! Earrings are my favorite accessory, so I chose the pair below for myself, and picked out a couple of others as gifts for friends back home who had been so helpful since my husband passed away. The local artist collects the sea glass on a nearby island and does the most stunning pieces using silver, gold, leather cords, and beyond. Her metalwork adds to the beauty of her earrings, necklaces, bracelets, etc.
More here: How I Remember My Late Husband on Travel
Shells
Note: It is illegal to collect and take home shells, coral, or other sea life from Palau, and you will have to sign the “Palau Pledge” in your passport when you arrive, which states that you will not remove these items from the beaches.
That said, there are beautiful Palauan shells for sale at many shops around the islands. These are legally collected (with a permit), and they are the best quality shells you’ll see anywhere. It’s easy to find pieces of shells on beaches around the world, but it’s rare to find shells that are so intact. These are some of the best things to buy in Palau because shells are culturally and historically significant to the Palauans. Just keep your receipt, in case anyone sees your shells at customs and needs to make sure they were obtained legally!
Keep reading: What It’s Like Taking a Scenic Flight in Palau
Solid Sunscreen
You probably brought some with you, but you will almost certainly run out during your trip. The sun is strong in these islands! Luckily for everyone, locally made, reef safe, and solid sunscreen can be found at shops throughout the country. I love solid sunscreen for travel because it doesn’t take up space in my liquid toiletries bag, and it doesn’t have to be checked. I should have bought more while I was there!
More here: The Traveler’s Ultimate Guide to Sunscreen (from a dermatologist)
Want more? See my dedicated Palau Page!
Love this post? Pin it for later!
