Palau is an increasingly popular destination for family diving and snorkeling trips. The airport is small and manageable, but getting a family with children and equipment to Koror requires a bit of planning.
The Car Seat Situation
Palau does not have strict car seat enforcement for taxis, but that does not mean you should skip one for your child. Taxis at ROR do not carry child seats. If your child needs one, you have two options: bring a portable travel car seat with you, or book a private transfer and request a car seat in advance. Availability of child seats through local transfer services is limited — confirm well ahead of your arrival. For very young children, bringing your own seat is the most reliable approach.
Luggage and Equipment
Families visiting Palau often travel with snorkel gear, dive equipment, underwater cameras, and the usual suitcases. A standard taxi sedan can handle 2–3 bags in the trunk, but a family of four with dive gear will need a van. Hotel shuttles are usually vans and handle larger groups and luggage better. If booking a private transfer, specify your luggage situation — the operator can send an appropriately sized vehicle.
The Airport Experience with Kids
ROR is a single-terminal airport with no jet bridges on most flights — you walk across the tarmac. In Palau's tropical heat and humidity, this is the first adjustment for the family. Immigration takes 30–60 minutes, and there is no priority lane for families. Bring water, snacks, and something to keep children occupied during the wait. Baggage claim is a small room with one carousel. Restrooms are basic but functional.
Getting to Your Hotel
The ride from the airport to Koror is 15–20 minutes on a smooth, two-lane highway. It crosses the Koror-Babeldaob Bridge, which offers nice views that might interest older children. The drive is short enough that even restless kids will manage.
For most families, the hotel shuttle is the best option if available. It is free or low-cost, the driver expects families, and the vehicle is sized for luggage. If your hotel does not offer a shuttle, book a private transfer with a van and request any child seats you need. Taking a taxi is possible but you may struggle to fit everyone and everything into a single car.
Practical Tips
Have your hotel transfer arranged before you land — do not plan to figure it out at the airport. Bring snacks and water for the immigration wait. Sunscreen and hats for the tarmac walk. If you are arriving from a long connection (common routings through Guam or Taipei mean 15+ hours of travel), assume everyone will be tired and keep the airport-to-hotel transition as simple as possible.
Bottom Line
The airport-to-Koror transfer is short and uncomplicated. The main family consideration is vehicle size (enough room for gear) and child seats (bring your own or pre-arrange). A hotel shuttle or pre-booked van transfer handles both. Save your energy for the jellyfish lake — that is what the kids will remember.