The Turkish Maldives, known for their magnificent sandy beaches: Cedar Island

Also known as Cleopatra Island, located in the Ula district of Mugla, in the village of Akyaka, is the largest of the three islands in the Gulf of Gokova... This place attracts attention with its beautiful nature, turquoise sea, historical ruins, and fine white sand. Every year, Cedar Island attracts crowds of tourists from different countries, and we have explored everything you need to know about this place. Where is it located, how to get there, what are its features? You will find the answers to all these questions in our article.

Where does the island's name come from?

In ancient times, this island was called Cedrai. Cedrai means cedar tree... In modern times, it still carries the same meaning... In ancient times, cedar from Lebanon was very important. This tree was used in many areas, mainly for shipbuilding ribs. Since there were many cedars around the island, it was named after them. Currently, there is not a single cedar tree left on the island; it is covered with olive trees. Another name for the island is Cleopatra Island... Because it is believed that the Egyptian queen Cleopatra bathed here. According to legend, special sand was brought to the island from Egypt, and this beach was created. Cleopatra and her beloved Roman general Antony used to meet on this beach. When the island came under Turkish control, it was called Shehiroglu for a while, but this name is not used today.

What are the features of Cedar Island?

What makes Cedar Island so attractive is the special sand on its beach... The sand is special not only because it is white and fine. It also sparkles, can spread itself in soda water, and burns on fire... Because of all these features, wearing flip-flops on the beach is prohibited. Moreover, access to the sandy area is also prohibited. The sea here is also beautiful, its appearance reminiscent of the world-famous resort the Maldives. Cedar Island has turquoise sea with clear water. When you come here, you will not be able to get enough of swimming. Near Cedar Island are two villages, Chaml? and Boncuk. These villages also have beautiful sea and beach. Here you can also swim in the sea. If you want to spend time in nature and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, you can visit these villages. The island also has an ancient city. This historical place is called the ancient city of Cedrai and is located near the island, within walking distance. There is information that ambiguously indicates that it was founded in the 6th century BCE. In this ancient city, which has survived to this day, you can see such historical structures as a necropolis, agora, church, theater, port ruins, towers, and walls, as well as the Sacred Place of Apollo. When you visit Cedar Island, we recommend you also visit this ancient city. The view from here is also very beautiful; you can choose this place for a photoshoot.

How to get to Cedar Island?

It is 27 kilometers from Akyaka and 23 kilometers from Marmaris. If you are driving, you need to first reach the village of Chaml?, which is 12 kilometers from the Mugla-Marmaris road. You can also reach the Chaml? pier from Marmaris by public transport. Then you need to take a boat from the Chamlik pier. In about 20 minutes, you will reach Cedar Island. Boats to Cedar Island also depart from Akyaka, Marmaris, and Mugla, and you can get here from there. However, remember that boats operate from 8 am to 5 pm with a half-hour interval. The nearest airport to Cedar Island is Dalaman Airport, which is 90 kilometers away. You can rent a chauffeured car from Dalaman Airport for a more comfortable, fast, and luxurious journey. Cedar Island is a protected area... So access to the area is controlled by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and is paid. Citizens of the Republic of Turkey can visit this place for free with a museum card. No museum card - 250 Turkish liras, foreigners can visit for 13 euros. This island is open for visits every day from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm. The ticket office closes at 6:00 pm.

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