KEDRAI

Sedir Island sounds like a fascinating place where culture and nature come together beautifully. The combination of crystal clear waters, a white sandy beach, and a lush green setting is certainly picturesque. The presence of the ancient city of Kedrai, including an antique theatre, adds a cultural aspect to the island. It’s also interesting to hear about the legend of Cleopatra and Anthony swimming at the island, which has led to it being called Cleopatra Island or Cleopatra Beach.

If you’re intrigued, it might be worth visiting Sedir Island to experience its unique blend of natural beauty and historical heritage.

SEDIR ISLAND AND WHY IT IS CALLED CLEOPATRA ISLAND

The story behind Cleopatra Island, or Sedir Island, is fascinating indeed. Claiming that the white sand was shipped in from Egypt adds an extra level of intrigue to the legend. It highlights Cleopatra and Marcus Antonius’ desire to meet and swim in luxurious surroundings. It’s interesting to learn that the sand on the beach is protected, restricts walking on it, and taking sand with you is forbidden.
While there is no concrete evidence to support the claim that Cleopatra and Anthony swam here, experts note that the sand on Sedir Island is unique to the Mediterranean region, similar to the sand found on Crete. This uniqueness adds to the charm of the island and its association with the famous historical figures.

CLEOPATRA BEACH: IS IT A REAL BEACH?

Well yes, Cleopatra Beach is a real beach, but you’ll find that the sandy part is closed by a rope, and you are not allowed to go on it. This doesn’t mean you can’t sunbathe though. There are plenty of robust wooden sunbeds behind the beach, with you a clear view of the crystal blue waters below. If you like to spend the afternoon sunbathing, keep in mind that the sunloungers don’t have cushions on them, so bring a thick towel. Swimming is ofcourse allowed and essential if you plan on visiting in high season.

Olive Oil production building

There are remarkable much buildings still standing.

Situated close to Antalya city, but the nature still dominates the site

KEDRAI: THE ANCIENT CITY ON SEDIR ISLAND

Sedir Island is an uninhabited island nowadays. Back in the 6th century, things were different, and people settled here. That is why you will find the remains of the old city of Kedrai on Sedir Island. The most impressive ruins are probably those of the Roman Theatre seating 2.500 people. Although you will also see some fascinating city walls, the remnants of an agora, a church, and the Apollon temple.

Apart from the church, all ruins are easily accessible following the purposely built wooden paths all over the island. In 2017, a team of 25 people worked intensively on the island, revealing the historical artifacts. The excavations under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism were a combined effort of archaeologists and prisoners.

You can easely enjoy an afternoon in this beautiful site, away from the busy life in Antalya, Antalya that is only a few kilometers away. 

HOW TO GET TO SEDIR ISLAND?

There are plenty of organized boat tours leaving from Marmaris or Akyaka that will also stop at Cleopatra Island. But if you’re a bit like us, and you prefer to visit places at your own pace, then the best way to visit Sedir Island is by taking the shuttle service that leaves every half hour from April 15th till October 15th from the jetty at Çamlı Köyü. (click here to see the exact location of the jetty on Google Maps)

From there, you’ll reach the island after a scenic 20-minute boat trip. Unless you have a Müze Kart, you will have to pay to enter the island. We strongly recommend buying a Museum Pass for Turkey if you’re planning on visiting more than one archaeological site.

Other things to consider when visiting Sedir Island:

• while there is a restaurant on-site, we’d advise you to take your own food and drinks, especially if you’re on a budget
• there are toilets and showers, but bringing your own paper might be a smart move
• the island can get overcrowded in high season, losing its magic, plan your visit accordingly
• bring plenty of sun protection, and your own towel

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