For many travelers, jellyfish are something to avoid in the ocean. Their stings can be painful, even dangerous. But in a few rare places in the world, jellyfish have evolved without stingers strong enough to harm humans. In these unique lagoons, you can actually snorkel side by side with thousands of jellyfish, drifting peacefully in clear waters.
Snorkeling with jellyfish is one of the most surreal experiences you can have underwater. It feels like floating in a living galaxy, surrounded by pulsating, translucent creatures that move with the rhythm of the water.
This guide covers where you can snorkel with jellyfish, why it is safe, and how to make the most of this unforgettable adventure.
Where Can You Snorkel with Jellyfish?
There are only a handful of known jellyfish lakes in the world. The most famous and accessible are:
Jellyfish Lake, Palau
- Location: Eil Malk Island, part of Palau’s Rock Islands in the Pacific
- Species: Golden jellyfish (Mastigias papua etpisoni)
- Why it is special: Millions of jellyfish fill the lake, following the sun’s path during the day. They have lost their stinging ability over thousands of years of isolation.
Jellyfish Lake is the most iconic place to snorkel with jellyfish. After being closed for several years due to environmental stress, it has reopened to visitors, though numbers are limited to protect the ecosystem.
Kakaban Island, Indonesia
- Location: Derawan Islands, East Kalimantan, Borneo
- Species: Four types of non-stinging jellyfish, including golden and moon jellyfish
- Why it is special: Kakaban is a volcanic island with a massive inland lake. Unlike Palau, you can also see other marine life, such as sponges and gobies, living among the jellyfish.
Kakaban offers a wilder, less regulated experience compared to Palau, but reaching it requires more effort.
Togean Islands, Indonesia
- Location: Central Sulawesi
- Species: A smaller population of stingless jellyfish
- Why it is special: Fewer tourists visit, making it a more remote and intimate experience.
This spot is harder to reach but appealing for those already exploring Sulawesi’s offbeat diving destinations.
Misool, Raja Ampat, Indonesia
- Location: West Papua
- Species: Isolated populations of non-stinging jellyfish
- Why it is special: Raja Ampat is already one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth. Adding a jellyfish lake to the mix makes it even more remarkable.
Because access is tightly controlled, this lake is often limited to researchers or travelers working with eco-lodges in Misool.
Why Are These Jellyfish Harmless?
In their natural environment, jellyfish use stingers to protect themselves from predators and to catch prey. But in isolated lakes like those in Palau and Indonesia, jellyfish evolved without significant predators. Over thousands of years, their stings became weak, no longer harmful to humans.
That is why you can swim through entire clouds of jellyfish without worrying about being stung.
What It Feels Like
Snorkeling with jellyfish is not like typical snorkeling on coral reefs. There are no colorful fish darting around or dramatic drop-offs. Instead, the magic comes from the sheer number of jellyfish, often so many that you are completely surrounded.
- Movement: Jellyfish pulse gently, drifting with the currents. Swimming among them feels slow and dreamlike.
- Colors: Depending on the species and sunlight, jellyfish may appear golden, pink, or translucent.
- Touch: They are soft and gelatinous. Accidental contact is harmless, though you should avoid deliberately handling them.
Most visitors describe the experience as otherworldly, peaceful, and hypnotic.
How to Prepare
- Permits: Some lakes, such as Palau’s, require permits and fees to visit. These help fund conservation.
- Tours: Local operators usually arrange boat trips to the lakes. Independent access is not common.
- Gear: Bring a snorkel mask and fins. Sunscreen is discouraged because chemicals can harm the ecosystem, so wear a rash guard instead.
- No diving: Scuba diving is not allowed in Palau’s Jellyfish Lake due to the unique balance of oxygen levels.
Conservation and Responsibility
Jellyfish lakes are fragile ecosystems. Climate change, tourism, and pollution have all threatened their survival.
- Palau’s Jellyfish Lake had to close for several years after jellyfish numbers dropped drastically. It has since recovered but remains vulnerable.
- Kakaban and other lakes also face risks from overuse and lack of regulation.
As a visitor, you can help by:
- Following local rules strictly
- Avoiding sunscreen in the water
- Not touching or disturbing the jellyfish
- Traveling with eco-conscious tour operators
Other Things to Do Nearby
Snorkeling with jellyfish is usually part of a bigger trip.
- Palau: Known for world-class diving at Blue Corner and German Channel, WWII wrecks, and the Rock Islands’ limestone scenery.
- Derawan Islands (Kakaban): Home to manta rays, turtles, and excellent coral reefs.
- Raja Ampat: Considered the best diving destination in the world, with unmatched marine biodiversity.
Pros and Cons of Snorkeling with Jellyfish
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique, rare experience found in only a few places | Travel can be expensive and remote |
| Safe and family-friendly, no stings | Ecosystems are fragile and sometimes closed |
| Peaceful, surreal underwater environment | Not as colorful as coral reef snorkeling |
| Great photography opportunities | Strict rules (no diving, no sunscreen) |
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1–2: Arrive in Palau or Derawan Islands, settle into accommodation
Day 3: Take a guided trip to Jellyfish Lake or Kakaban Island
Day 4–6: Add snorkeling or diving trips to nearby reefs, lagoons, or wrecks
Day 7: Explore local culture and relax before departure
This balance lets you enjoy the jellyfish while making the most of the surrounding region.
Conclusion
Snorkeling with jellyfish is one of the rarest and most magical underwater experiences. Floating among thousands of harmless creatures feels like stepping into another world. Whether you visit Jellyfish Lake in Palau or one of Indonesia’s remote lakes, it is an adventure you will never forget.
These places are fragile, so responsible tourism is essential. But if you get the chance, snorkeling with jellyfish is worth the effort. It is a reminder of how unique and surprising our planet can be.
FAQs
Is it really safe to snorkel with jellyfish?
Yes. The jellyfish in Palau and Indonesia’s lakes have stings too weak to harm humans.
Can you scuba dive in jellyfish lakes?
No. In Palau, scuba diving is banned because it can disrupt the delicate balance of the lake. Snorkeling only is allowed.
Do jellyfish touch you while snorkeling?
Yes, you will likely bump into them as you swim. It is harmless, but you should avoid handling them on purpose.
What is the best place in the world to snorkel with jellyfish?
Palau’s Jellyfish Lake is the most famous, but Kakaban Island in Indonesia is another excellent choice.
When is the best time to go?
Year-round, but dry seasons (November to April in Palau, June to September in Indonesia) are usually best for visibility and travel logistics.
