Ngellil Nature Island Resort

Ngellil Nature Island Resort

Ngellil Rock Island, Airai, Babeldaob Island Palau
食事場所
Traveler (29)
Upstairs bathroom
Room & Suite (19)
Pool & Beach (7)

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About

#1 of 2 small hotels in Airai
3.9 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Value
3.6 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.3 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Ngellil Nature Island Resort is the only accommodation on a secluded island which is Stone Money Island, featuring pristine beauty, rich natural environment and unique historical sites. To reach the resort, there is a 5-minute drive from the airport to our private dock which is under KB Bridge in Airai. Guests must then take a 10-15 minute boat ride to the island.
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Property amenities
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Free breakfast
Beach
Fishing
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Airport transportation
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Wifi
Restaurant
Shuttle bus service
Shared bathroom
Laundry service
Room features
Air conditioning
Private beach
Desk
Room service
Seating area
Minibar
Room types
Suites
Family rooms
Smoking rooms available
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Charming
Languages Spoken
English
Traveler rating
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Detailed Reviews
KoleaMaui wrote a review Jun 2013
Maui, Hawaii
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
An Enchanted Day in the Ngellil Nature Resort, Palau
By Kolea Schonwalter
A convenient 20-minute boat ride away from Airai State (where the International Airport of Palau is located,) Ngellil Island Nature Resort is ideally situated: you can be whisked away directly upon your arrival to this enchanted, blissful retreat from worldly cares.
The hospitality begins at the airport where you will be picked up and brought to the office/dock. You’ll get a hint of the natural ambiance of Ngellil Island in the office located within view of the KB (Koror-Babeldoab) expansion bridge, so take in the décor while you are offered a refreshing drink.
After a brief torrential rain that cools us, the office workers who briefed me of my boat tour itinerary to the Nature Island Resort, spared no precaution in wrapping my baggage in plastic bags and fitting me with rubber booties for wading in the shallow, if I so choose. Even a dry bag for my camera is provided!!!
The ride out of Airai is part of the tour that is guided by a young, enthusiastic and helpful Filipino, Gary or Tai.
Looming like magic mushrooms, with an occasional gumdrop- shaped island, the Rock Islands are a visual delight, a balm for travel weariness. Our first stop, a view of the “Japanese Cave” where WWII Japanese fighter pilots hid their boats between fueling, and a nearby downed WWII Japanese fighter/floater plane reminds us that the new expansion bridge aptly named, “The Friendship Bridge,” was built by Japan to ameliorate the past.
I saw the full fuselage and wings hovering below the turquoise sea like a fluttering dragonfly come to rest in the sandy bed. Not forlorn but cradled by the shadow of overhanging trees, seemingly forgiven of its trespass, the plane a requiem to lost lives—enemy or no.
Approaching the next cave, “Pictograph Cave,” the squawking of overhead tropic birds caught my breath: so close were we I could see their little black feet tucked under their soaring bodies. As I struggled to capture the photo op moment—five tropic birds weaving in and out of the limestone outcropping, the backlighted diaphanous wings of a fruit bat flew against the brilliant tropic sun!! (Gary gave me every opportunity to adjust my antique digital camera.)
We landed at Ngerllil as the tide moved in, and I was escorted to the grand mahogany staircase of an appropriately designed, sustainable, solar-powered eight-room building, the entry-way a cultural icon-- the traditional “bai” with mythic and natural motifs (even a depiction of a dog.) The rooms are situated within reach of a limestone wall, screened in but giving the illusion of cave-dwelling.
Shedding my booties outside the door, I found a woven pair of slippers conveniently located on a shelf at the door. My guest room of simple elegance is a work of art. The walls are woven pandanus leaf and bamboo strips, with a hand-made candle lantern, overhead fan and light which operate conservatively, a battery-operated lantern for night time excursions, and hanging Japanese iron wind chime that complements the cicadas symphony. I felt as though I were in an inn in Japan with tatami mats—so fresh and soothing is this room.
With pre-arranged individual meal times, I collapsed in the bed strewn with flower petals, and stared up at the batik covering of a skylight-- I could relax deeply in the stillness of the island.
My first beautifully appointed meal of basselet fish, sumptuously prepared by Lorelei, the Filipina cook and island office manager was heavenly. She carefully unwrapped the foil of the succulent broiled fish I savored thoroughly. (She even shares her recipe secrets!!!)
In such an unpretentious environment, finger licking embarrasses no one.
That night, April who had pampered me with freshly cut coconut juice throughout the day, Lorelei and Gary and I star watched. Why did our star gazing amaze me so? Was it the enormity of the stars, too abundant to even imagine their number, my mind full of half-remembered names of Greek and Roman constellations? Or, the camaraderie: we shared my binoculars, the staff shared their keen eyesight and knowledge of the stars: the stars rising and setting points in the dome of the sky.
Never have I seen so full a sky—bulging at the horizon. Like a navigator expert in celestial navigation, I imagined myself migrating to these rock islands of Palau from Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan and the Philippines. Or was I in the wake of the Caroline navigators who sailed their outriggers to these clam-studded waters and atolls?
I returned to my room to manually open the skylight to a star-strewn sky, and listen to “jungle” sounds of native birds and peepers, and anticipate a sunrise to rival the spectacular sunset.
After another delicious meal (I heard the sizzling of the eggs frying as I watched the sea through the open dining room window), I forgave myself the gluttony just as April offered me a paddling trip in an “Indian” style canoe. Without the usual hype of other tourist venues—more an invitation from a friend-- we loaded our boat with a thermos of cool water, two paddles and much anticipation of viewing wildlife.
I felt invigorated as April and I wended our way between islands. At times, April paddled as I witnessed the swooping dives of tropic birds and searched the lagoon for giant clams and turtles.
After another meal of satay beef, full bowl of salad, fruit and iced tea, I was ready to loll in a hammock in the cool trade wind breeze. My indolence was not boring for the shifting dappled light in the grove of coconuts and endemic trees, and the family of well-groomed, and well-mannered dogs entertained me.
If you are planning a trip to Palau, I highly recommend Ngellil Nature Island Resort. Knowing that all this indulgence is carried out within a sustainable environment, you will feel as I did—rejuvenated and pampered and all for a bargain-hunters’ price of $150 a night with four meals, the boat trip including the tour. (Tips are appreciated as the staff and boat crew are meticulous in their attention to your comfort.) You can even arrange your meal times to coordinate with the high tide snorkel and paddle trips and nature walk .
For the daytime only visitor, a four-hour trip to the Ngellil Nature Island includes a nature topur, a grilled lunch, and lounging in a hammock strung between coconut palms without the distracting signage of “beware falling coconuts.” You can also take a four- hour night tour replete with authentic Palauan BBQ.
For nature lovers who wish to camp, the Ngellil Island Resort can arrange that too. For the cost of a round trip boat shut: $45, $35 per night camping fee which includes the use of the kitchen and shower, you will be treated to a bevy of fireflies. Bring your binoculars and insect repellant, sunscreen and hat and your own light-weight bivy sack or sleeping bag and thermal pad. There are shelters if rain looks threatening.
Booking Information:
Call 680-587-1059
Fax: 680-587-3631e
e-mail: ngellilnatureisland@yahoo.com
Hosiana, Pinky and Sada are very helpful office staff, so don’t feel shy about asking stupid questions.
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Date of stay: December 2012
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jenni K wrote a review Mar 2015
La Habra, California
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My husband and I went in Feb. 2015 for our honeymoon. We were the only guests for the duration of our stay. I wanted a somewhat private experience, but I never expected to enjoy a honeymoon being one of 4 people on an island (the other two was the chef, and the hotel groundskeeper).

The hotel itself is rated 3 stars for a reason: It lacks air conditioning. It has shared bathrooms. It has electricity for about 6 hours per night, shutting off at midnight. And there are spiders here and there on the grounds (not inside the hotel room). But... the experience is SO WORTH IT. We participated in a tour everyday: kayaking, snorkeling, swimming with jellyfish, etc. And to come back to the island and relax on hammocks, swaying in the cool ocean wind, staring at the gorgeous view, was paradise for me. I plan on taking my parents there one day.

Definitely go night kayaking on your first night there! It's a wonderful introduction to the beauty of Palau. And it's such an adventure to kayak guided by the light of the stars (actually, an occasional flashlight). It was really one of my favorite adventures because it was scary to be out in the ocean in the pitch dark but sooooooo fun.

Staff was wonderful and accommodating. Thank you to all the staff -- you took wonderful care of us on such a special occasion. I could not have asked for a more perfect honeymoon.
<3 chris & jenni
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Date of stay: February 2015
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fernweh3 wrote a review May 2014
Hanau, Germany
4.0 of 5 bubbles
When we stayed in this resort in April 2014, we were the only guests. Rooms with fan no air conditioning. Bathrooms for men and women on floor, no ensuite.
Food was very good, freshly prepared and very good. Fish, meat, seafood.

Everybody in this resort was very nice. Snorkelling quite good, go to the leftt towards the small island. Saw plenty of fish lion fish, anemone fish 'Nemo', and plenty others. So quite flat and not good for swimming.

Go for the free hikes, to the top and to see the big tree.

Book the Airai and Stone money tour: Zero plane, caves with bats, Japanese hiding places and Yap stone money.,
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Date of stay: April 2014Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karl E wrote a review Jan 2016
1.0 of 5 bubbles
This is not a resort, it is an isolated structure terrorized by semi-feral dogs with an owner who will squeeze you for every penny you've got once he has you captive. One is charged for everything, even the coconuts that fall from the trees. The generator power is only turned on at certain times, and the costs for tours do not reflect what is posted. Hold you ground steadfastly and you can come out all right but it is exhausting.
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Date of stay: March 2015
1.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
1.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
1.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: They are all the same, all in a row. It just depends how far (or close) you want to be to the...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jasonandmaryann wrote a review Apr 2014
London, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This is the kind of place you want to keep to yourself and not get too publicised so that it doesn't get ruined. We stayed at Ngllil Island with our 13 month old baby and had a super experience. Basically, after the boat ride from Koror, this is the closest to being on your own private island. There is a cook, and an island "butler" called April. And that's it. We had the resort to ourselves as no other guests. The cleaner comes in by boat to do the room up, and apart from that, it is quiet as anything. The rooms are very comfortable, on a landing made of varnished wood and all made of natural fabrics. In the rooms, there is a skyline in the roof, so that you can see the stars when in bed - which was very cool. Bathroom is shared, but modern enough (tiled and clean). There are chickens, and dogs, and cats and a feeling of being so close to nature. The beach can be used at low tide for walks and you can climb the island to enjoy superb views of the rock islands if you want something active and challenging to do. It is a very nice walk and views are breathtaking but wear solid shoes. You can also walk to the power tree at night and see fireflies. There are kayaks for rent too and frankly, we just wanted to chill in the hammocks, watch the sea and walk about the soft grass barefoot all day. The resort also does snorkelling and fishing tours. But overall, it felt so close to nature, was relaxing and it was a great start to the holiday as we just were able to switch off, enjoy being away from it all, in the middle of beautiful scenery.... There is no phone signal, or internet, but a landline for guests to use.
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Date of stay: April 2014
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: Rooms are all the same. Balconies are good and enough space to sit and chill in the chairs
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Inka P wrote a review Dec 2019
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Beautiful small area in Rock Islands. Stunning water and views, very clear water. Few bungalows, very peaceful. Only two of us and one other customer at the time. Had private kayaking and snorkling. A lot of kayaks and paddlebords. Friendly stuff. Great food, we were asked every day what we would like to eat and when. Surely it can be different with more customers?
Upper floor of the rooms is nice, simple style, I liked. No aircon, fan was working when there was electricity in the evening and night time.

I think still too pricy compared to facilities. Down floor of the room was pretty dark so I am not sure if anyone spends some time there, even if there is a sofa. Downstairs there is even bathtub but it was dirty. No hairdryer. No hooks for the towels or a place to dry clothes outside. A dryingrack would be great. Toilet paper bin was not emptyed every day.
Sun beds are hard and some of them, and also some of the hammocks are broken. There is some tall unfinished "building" next to the beach. Some facelifting could be done outside also.
A bar would be great. And there are no snacks available to buy, which I missed in the afternoon. There are hiking trails in the forest but the trails are not taking care of, that was a shame. The trails are pretty hard to walk because of a huge amount of limestone rocks.

With small and cheap upgrading changes this could easily be a five star resort.
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Date of stay: December 2019Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KaikouraAK wrote a review Nov 2019
Juneau, Alaska
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Six of us had a day before a live aboard dive trip and wanted to get out of Koror town to be on the water. We booked a trip with Nature Grace Palau on their Stone Money Island Island Discovery Tour. It was a blast! They picked us up at our hotel and took us in a boat to Nigalli Nature Preserve which was stunning. We SUP’d and kayaked through blue water coves. We saw turtles, lots of birds and a shark. After a couple hours we returned to the beautiful lodge for a short hike and a delicious grilled lunch. We chilled in the hammocks and then took the boat out to the reef to snorkel. Saw an octopus, rainbow fish and a turtle! The guide, Michelle, was great. There were a few young dogs at the lodge who were very sweet pups. I highly recommend this day trip!
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Date of stay: November 2019Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wedutch5 wrote a review May 2015
Florida
4.0 of 5 bubbles
If you are looking for total seclusion this is the place. A boat ride out to the island and you and 20 guest max are all alone. Hiking, kayaking, and exploring. There is no internet, no cell phone reception just peace and quiet.
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Date of stay: March 2015
3.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Noah wrote a review Feb 2014
San Luis Obispo, California
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A simply fabulous experience on Airai, a small island about 15 minutes by speedboat from "downtown" Koror before you are in your own secluded island paradise. A small number of guests are complemented by incredibly warm staff, great food and a really relaxing overall experience. Pricing is a great value as well when compared to other hotels in Koror, though it's slightly removed location would make it difficult to do daily diving to the most popular spots in Palau. We did 2-3 days here and I couldn't have thought of a better complement to our 1 week livaboard dive trip. Given that most flights to the USA and Europe leave between 1-3 am, I should note that transport back from the island is possible at night just not too late, then you can relax at a temporary room at the main offices in Koror before heading to the airport.

I can't speak highly enough about this place. Maybe it was because we were the only guests, maybe its because this is just so much better than the other places we stayed in Koror...but this was truly one of the best vacation experiences our family has had.
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Date of stay: February 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dene wrote a review Dec 2019
Melbourne, Australia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We completed our Palaun holiday at Ngellil. We were picked up in Koror and transferred to the resort. Sunset was stunning as was the sunrise which we enjoyed from the end of the jetty, while a shark had his breakfast! Dinner was superb as was lunch the next day. We spent the day relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, took a short walk and tried the sup. We didn't look at the tours option having already done a kayak trip which visited some of the historical war locations in the area. Our room was spacious and comfortable with no noisy air conditioning but efficient fans one of which was rechargeable so could cope when the power was out. The unit had an unusual layout with an up and downstairs and a split bathroom set into the cliff. There was a lot of attention to detail. It was an enjoyable end to our holiday which included a final transfer to the airport.
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Date of stay: December 2019
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Karl E wrote a tip Jan 2016
3 contributions7 helpful votes
1.0 of 5 bubbles
"They are all the same, all in a row. It just depends how far (or close) you want to be to the single bathroom."
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jasonandmaryann wrote a tip Apr 2014
London, United Kingdom56 contributions56 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Rooms are all the same. Balconies are good and enough space to sit and chill in the chairs"
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LOCATION
PalauBabeldaob IslandAirai
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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NGELLIL NATURE ISLAND RESORT - Hotel Reviews (Airai, Palau) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Ngellil Nature Island Resort
Which popular attractions are close to Ngellil Nature Island Resort?
Nearby attractions include Belau National Museum (7.6 km), Etpison Museum (7.0 km), and Surangel and Sons Co (7.4 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Ngellil Nature Island Resort?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Ngellil Nature Island Resort?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a desk.
What food & drink options are available at Ngellil Nature Island Resort?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and barbeque facilities during their stay.
What are some restaurants close to Ngellil Nature Island Resort?
Conveniently located restaurants include Taj, L' Amarena Gelato Shop (Gelateria Italiana), and Canoe House.
Does Ngellil Nature Island Resort have airport transportation?
Yes, Ngellil Nature Island Resort offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are there any historical sites close to Ngellil Nature Island Resort?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Airai Bai (3.8 km) and Airai War Canoe (3.8 km).