The World's 12 Most Spectacular Coral Reefs: A Journey Through Underwater Paradise

3. Palau's Rock Islands, Micronesia

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A little island nation in the western Pacific, the Rock Islands of Palau provide a singular and breathtaking coral reef experience. About 250 limestone islands make up this UNESCO World Heritage site; majority of them are abandoned and encircled by active coral reefs. The area is well-known for its glistening clean waves, which provide great visibility and amazing diving and snorkelling possibilities. The mushroom-like forms created by millennia of erosion define the Rock Islands and create an unusual scene both above and below the sea. Jellyfish Lake, a landlocked marine lake teeming with millions of innocuous golden jellyfish, is one of the most famous elements of Palau's Rock Islands. Visitors can still marvel at this natural beauty from approved viewing places even though swimming with these ethereal creatures is no longer allowed to save the delicate ecology. Underwater aficionados should definitely visit the nearby reefs since they provide an amazing variety of marine life including sea turtles, reef sharks, and innumerable types of tropical fish. Having established the first shark sanctuary in 2009 and outlawing the use of reef-toxic sunscreens to save its delicate coral ecosystems, Palau is also well-known for its dedication to marine preservation. Divers can investigate the calm waters of the German Channel, a well-known cleaning station for manta rays, or Blue Corner, noted for its powerful currents and big pelagic species.