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Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island) Turkey

4.5
·119 reviews·, Türkiye

Discover Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island), Turkey, famed for its legendary golden sand beach and ancient ruins set against stunning turquoise waters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
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Bay.

Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island) Turkey

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island), Turkey, famed for its legendary golden sand beach and ancient ruins set against stunning turquoise waters.

4.5
(119 reviews)

"The water is fantastic. Warm, cristal clean. The beach is fabulous."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Plenty of Water 💧

It gets hot! Staying hydrated is key. Bring your own water or be prepared for higher prices on the island.

Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟

You'll be doing some walking to see the ruins. Good footwear is essential for exploring the island.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cleopatra's Beach

Cleopatra's Beach

Sedir Island

Famous for its unique, fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Reddit
Ancient Ruins

Ancient Ruins

Sedir Island

Explore remnants of ancient civilizations, including a well-preserved theater and temple.

Reddit
Azure Waters

Azure Waters

Surrounding Sedir Island

Dive into the incredibly clear, warm, and inviting turquoise sea. Ideal for a refreshing swim.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Getting to Cleopatra Island

Access Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island) via boat tours from Marmaris or local ferries from nearby villages. Booking a tour often includes transport from your hotel and visits to other coves, making it a convenient day trip. Consider local ferries for a more budget-friendly and flexible option. Reddit

Island Entry Fees & What to Expect

Be prepared for an entrance fee (around 10-13 Euros) to access Cleopatra Island. While the island boasts historical ruins and a unique beach, much of it is roped off. Focus on enjoying the stunning clear waters and swimming. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Softer light for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Anyone been to Marmaris and can give me some advice and places to go?

Bring Plenty of Water 💧

It gets hot! Staying hydrated is key. Bring your own water or be prepared for higher prices on the island. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟

You'll be doing some walking to see the ruins. Good footwear is essential for exploring the island. Reddit

Pack for Swimming 🏊‍♀️

The water is stunning! Don't forget your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen for a day of swimming. Reddit

Consider Local Ferries 🚢

For a cheaper and more flexible trip, take a local ferry from a nearby village instead of a full tour. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Plenty of Water 💧

It gets hot! Staying hydrated is key. Bring your own water or be prepared for higher prices on the island. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟

You'll be doing some walking to see the ruins. Good footwear is essential for exploring the island. Reddit

Pack for Swimming 🏊‍♀️

The water is stunning! Don't forget your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen for a day of swimming. Reddit

Consider Local Ferries 🚢

For a cheaper and more flexible trip, take a local ferry from a nearby village instead of a full tour. Reddit

Manage Expectations 🏖️

While beautiful, some areas are roped off. Focus on the beach and swimming for the best experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(119 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Cleopatra Island for its stunningly clear, warm waters and unique golden sand beach, making it a beautiful spot for swimming and relaxation. The ancient ruins add historical interest. However, some find the entrance fee steep for what's offered, especially with much of the beach roped off, and note that food and drinks are quite expensive.

"Beautiful place which we visited as part of a tour so you get to see a few islands and swim. We got picked up from our hotel in Marmaris and drove about 40 minutes and headed for the harbour near Sedir where you board a bigger boat to begin your journey. Cleopatra Island itself is beautiful. You pay 13 euro to get entry but to be honest wasn't mad about it as its just beautiful. We got 1 hour 30 mins stop. Hard to find a sun bed to lay your stuff but we found one but spent all the time in the water as its stunning and plenty of fish to see. Yes the little beach roped off to protect it and that's fine. Didn't stop idiots going on it tho! They where chased by staff very quickly 😆 if your looking for a day out deffo put this trip on your to do list."

Catherine Bennett

"This is a must go tour. The beach is fabulous. You can swim and then check out the ruins right near. Perfect for hot weather.
The tour also drops by 3 other coves and takes all day. This is the best experience I had in town."

Murat Ozcan

"So, you get here using the boats that you see moored as you drive towards the nearest village.
The cost of the 30mins each way return boat trip is in keeping with other trips of a similar length.
The people running the boat service were great.
Getting onto the island is expensive for what you have there - currently 13Euros per person. When you are on the island, there are a couple of small ruins to see but all of them are roped off apart from the church so you can only see them and not explore.
The beach with the famous sands is roped off so you then just get to swim in the sea nearby.
Overall, it felt very expensive for what it was.
And to top it off, we were going to have ice creams or slushies before leaving but at 175TL for the drink and 180TL for the cheapest ice cream (about £4.50 each at at time) we felt were silly prices even allowing for a tourist mark up."

Tony Fudger

What People Like

Crystal clear turquoise waters
Unique golden sand beach
Ancient historical ruins

What People Dislike

High entrance fee
Roped-off beach areas
Expensive food and drinks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island) from Marmaris is by joining a boat tour. These tours often include hotel pick-up and transport to the harbor, followed by a boat ride to the island. Alternatively, you can take a minibus to a nearby village and catch a local ferry directly to the island for a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

The journey from Marmaris to the harbor for Sedir Island typically takes about 40 minutes by road. The boat trip to the island itself is relatively short, usually around 30 minutes each way. Reddit

Yes, local boat services operate from small villages near Sedir Island. These are often more affordable than organized tours and offer flexibility in departure times. Reddit

You cannot drive directly to Cleopatra Island as it is an island. You will need to take a boat from a mainland harbor or village. Reddit

Sedir Island tours from Marmaris usually include hotel transfers. The boat journey from the mainland port to the island is part of the tour experience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Cleopatra Island is typically around 10-13 Euros per person. This fee grants access to the island's historical sites and beach areas. Reddit

For organized boat tours, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. If you opt for local ferries, you can usually purchase tickets directly at the harbor. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter or with tour operators if you qualify for any special rates. Reddit

The entrance fee primarily covers access to the island, its historical ruins, and the unique beach. Amenities like sunbeds or food are usually extra. Reddit

Cleopatra Island is generally accessible during daylight hours when boat services are operating. Specific opening times can vary, so it's best to check with your tour provider or local ferry operators. Reddit

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

You can swim in the clear waters, relax on the unique sandy beach, and explore the ancient ruins, including a theater and temple remnants. Reddit

Yes, Cleopatra Island is famous for its fine, golden sand, which is quite unique. However, the main beach area is roped off to protect it. Reddit

Absolutely! The crystal-clear, warm waters surrounding the island are perfect for swimming and offer a refreshing experience. Reddit

Yes, the island is equipped with showers, toilets, and changing rooms for visitors' convenience. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy the swimming and the historical aspects. However, keep an eye on children near the water and the roped-off areas. Reddit

🍽️ 💸 Food & Dining

There is a cafe/snack bar on the island offering drinks and ice cream. However, prices can be quite high, so consider bringing your own snacks and water. Reddit

Food and drinks on Sedir Island tend to be expensive, with ice creams and drinks costing a significant amount. Reddit

Yes, it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks to save money and ensure you have refreshments readily available. Reddit

While there's a cafe/snack bar, it's not a full-service restaurant. It offers basic refreshments. Reddit

The cafe typically offers drinks like water, soft drinks, and ice cream. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique golden sand beach, the ancient theater ruins, and the stunning turquoise waters. The boat ride to the island also offers scenic photo opportunities. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, be mindful of any specific restrictions around sensitive historical areas. Reddit

Late afternoon often provides softer light for photography, while mornings can be good for capturing the clear water before it gets too busy. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area. Reddit

A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for beach shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views of the ruins and coastline. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cleopatra Island offers a fun day out for families. The clear, warm waters are perfect for children to swim and play in. While the famous sand beach is roped off, there's plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sea. The historical ruins can also spark curiosity in older children, offering a chance to learn about ancient history in an engaging setting. Reddit

Practical tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as island prices can be high. Sun protection is crucial, so pack hats, sunscreen, and consider rash guards for extra protection. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the ruins. Ensure you keep a close eye on children near the water and the roped-off historical areas. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, opting for local ferries from nearby villages instead of organized Marmaris tours is the key to saving money on transport to Cleopatra Island. While there's an entrance fee to the island itself, the ferry option significantly cuts down on overall costs. Reddit

To further manage expenses, pack your own water and snacks. The food and drink options on the island are known to be pricey. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty – the swimming and the unique beach – which are the main attractions and don't cost extra beyond the entry fee. Reddit

💑 Couples

Cleopatra Island offers a romantic escape with its beautiful scenery and unique historical charm. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride to the island, followed by a dip in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island's serene atmosphere, especially outside peak hours, provides a perfect setting for couples to relax and connect. Reddit

Explore the ancient ruins hand-in-hand, imagining life in antiquity. While the famous sand beach is roped off, the overall beauty of the island and the surrounding sea make for a picturesque and memorable experience. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy a more intimate meal with a view. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of Cleopatra's Sand

Cleopatra Island, or Sedir Island, is famed for its unique, fine golden sand. Legend has it that Mark Antony brought this sand from Egypt as a gift for Cleopatra. While the sand is indeed special, much of the main beach area is now roped off to preserve it, meaning visitors can admire it but not freely walk on it. Reddit

Despite the restrictions, the visual appeal of this golden stretch against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea is undeniable. The sand's fine texture and unique color make it a talking point and a key attraction for visitors seeking the legendary beach. Reddit

For those who wish to experience the sand, it's important to respect the preservation efforts. The surrounding waters are equally stunning, offering a fantastic alternative for swimming and enjoying the island's natural beauty. Reddit

Exploring the Ancient Ruins

Sedir Island is not just about its famous beach; it's also a site of historical significance. Visitors can explore the remnants of an ancient city, including a well-preserved theater and the ruins of a temple. These structures offer a glimpse into the island's past and add a layer of historical depth to the visit. The theater, in particular, is a notable feature, allowing visitors to imagine performances from centuries ago. Reddit

While many of the ruins are roped off for preservation, they are still accessible enough to appreciate their scale and historical context. The Temple of Apollo is another significant ruin, though less intact than the theater. Walking among these ancient stones provides a stark contrast to the vibrant natural beauty of the island. Reddit

These historical sites are a key part of the Cleopatra Island experience, appealing to those interested in history and archaeology. They offer a quiet escape from the beach and a chance to connect with the island's rich heritage. Reddit

Navigating Boat Tours and Local Ferries

When planning your trip to Cleopatra Island, you have two main options for boat transport: organized tours from Marmaris or local ferries from nearby villages. Organized tours are convenient, often including hotel pick-up and a full-day itinerary that may visit other coves. This is a good choice if you prefer a hassle-free experience and want to see multiple spots. Reddit

For a more economical and flexible approach, local ferries are an excellent alternative. These operate from smaller harbors and can be significantly cheaper. They offer more control over your schedule, allowing you to spend as much or as little time as you wish on the island. Reddit

Regardless of your choice, the boat journey itself is part of the charm, offering scenic views of the coastline. Ensure you check the operating times and prices for both tours and local ferries to make the best decision for your travel style and budget. Reddit

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