Sedir

Sedir, also known as Sedir Adası (Cedar Island) or Cleopatra’s Island, is an island in the Aegean Sea off the southwestern coast of Turkey. It is part of Muğla Province and lies in the Gulf of Gökova. The island is reachable by boat from Marmaris and other nearby coastal towns, making it a common day-trip destination for visitors exploring the Turkish Riviera.

Sedir Adası is best known for its western beach, which features a notable light-colored sand that contrasts with the clear blue sea. A long-standing local legend attributes the sand to imports from the Nile, allegedly arranged by Cleopatra to create a luxurious shore for her visits. Modern sources generally treat this as folklore, and the exact origin of the beach sand remains uncertain. Regardless of origin, the beach is a major draw for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities.

The island hosts a modest amount of vegetation and is part of a protected area designed to conserve its natural and any archaeological resources. Tourism is managed to minimize environmental impact, with visitors encouraged to follow local guidelines while on the beach and surrounding areas.

Etymology wise, Sedir Adası literally means Cedar Island in Turkish, with “sedir” meaning cedar. The name reflects historical or local associations with cedar trees once found in the region.