SEDIR ISLAND & KEDRAI

Home To Cleopatra Beach And The Ancient Ruins Of Kedrai

Sometimes culture and nature coexist. This is the case with Spider-Island, and a picturesque island tucked away in the Gökova Bay between Akyaka and Marmaris. Cedar Island captures the imagination with its crystal clear blue waters, white sandy beaches, lush green surroundings, quaint theatres and other remnants of the ancient city of  Kedrai.

On top of that, there is a legend that Cleopatra and Anthony once swam on the island, hence the name Cleopatra Island or Cleopatra Beach. Interested? So are we!

Sedir Island And Why It Is Called Cleopatra Island

Sedir Island is called Cleopatra Island or Cleopatra Beach because of the legend that Cleopatra and Anthony used to swim here. More places in Turkey claim fame because of Cleopatra, think of Cleopatra’s Pool in Pamukkale, Cleopatra’s Bath near Göcek, or even the Apollo Temple in Side. But the story around Cleopatra Island takes things to the next level.

Here, they claim the white sand was shipped in from Egypt. After all, Cleopatra and her lover Marcus Antonius wanted to meet and swim in style, and this beautiful white sand was part of that. While the sand on the beach is protected, and it is forbidden to walk on it, let alone take some with you, there is no evidence to support the claim that Cleopatra and Anthony ever swam here. However, experts say the sand on Sedir Island is unique for the Mediterranean region, in a way that it can only be found on Crete, outside of Cleopatra Island.

Sedir Island Has That Paradise Feel

Cleopatra Beach: Is It A Real Beach?

Well yes, Cleopatra Beach is a real beach, but you’ll find that the sandy part is roped off, 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 on the piece of land just behind the beach, giving you a clear view of the crystal blue waters below. If you like to spend the afternoon sunbathing, know that the sunloungers do not have cushions on them, so bring a nice and thick towel. Swimming is allowed and most probably essential if you plan on visiting in high season.

The Still Waters At Sedir Island

Purposely Built Paths Bring You To Cleopatra Beach

50 Shades Of Turquoise At Cleopatra Beach

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. You will also see some fascinating city walls, the remnants of an agora, a church, and the Apollon temple.

The Theatre At Kedrai Had A Capacity Of 2.500

We Loved The Peace And Quiet At Kedrai When Visiting Off-Season

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.

Make Time For A Walk When Visiting Sedir Island

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.

Ruins On The Island Opposite Of Cleopatra Beach

Other things to consider when visiting Sedir Island:

• while there is a restaurant on-site, we’d advise you to take your food and drinks, especially if you’re on a budget
• there are toilets and showers, but bringing your 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 towel

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If you have any questions about Sedir Island or Kedrai, feel free to ask. You can message us through our contact page or leave a comment on our Instagram or Facebook pages.

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