Long Beach (Omekang Sandbar)

Long Beach

A white sandbar that emerges from the sea only at low tide and links two Rock Islands. Walking along the fine sand with shallow turquoise water on both sides, it is Palau's most photogenic “sea corridor.”

Long Beach lies between the Omekang island group in the middle of the Rock Islands. It is a white coral-sand bar about 500 m long and only a few meters wide. It emerges only at low tide, connecting two green limestone islets, and is fully submerged at high tide. The water on both sides of the bar is very shallow, from knee to waist deep, shading from emerald green to bright blue. Shots taken from the islands or by drone here are among Palau's most famous photos, and the bar is a popular backdrop for wedding and portrait photography. Starfish and small reef fish are sometimes seen on the sandbar, and the islets offer shade for resting. Boat tours usually schedule Long Beach before or after low tide according to the tide table, so the order of the itinerary changes from day to day. Stops last about 30 to 40 minutes, and sometimes lunch is served here or on a nearby islet, such as a barbecue bento of grilled fish, rice balls, and fruit. Snorkeling near Omekang Island shows hard coral gardens and blue starfish. The fee is included in boat tours, and a Koror State Rock Islands permit is required. Getting there: about 30 minutes from Koror by speedboat. Note: the sandbar has no shade, and the midday sun is intense, so wear a hat and a long-sleeved stinger suit. Do not pick up starfish or shells. There are scattered coral fragments underwater, so wear water shoes. The tide rises quickly, so follow the captain's instructions on when to return to the boat. During peak season several boats arrive at once, so to photograph the bar without people, arrive early or wait until the last boats leave.

Long Beach (Omekang Sandbar)

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