Last update February 12, 2026
Sedir Island is a small island located in Muğla Province, in the Aegean region of Turkey. It lies off the southern coast near the town of Marmaris and is part of the Mediterranean coastline. Sedir Island is known for its archaeological ruins, sandy beaches with unique sand composition, and protected natural environment. The island is a designated national park and accessible only by boat.
The best time to visit Sedir Island is from April to October. During these months, the weather is warm and dry with average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. The summer months (July and August) are the hottest and most crowded. The shoulder months (April-May and September-October) have moderate crowd levels and more comfortable temperatures. Winter months (November to March) have low tourist activity and cooler, rainy weather.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowd Levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | April – June | Mild, dry, 20-25°C | Moderate |
| Summer | July – August | Hot, dry, 28-30°C | High |
| Autumn | September – October | Mild, dry, 22-27°C | Moderate |
| Winter | November – March | Cool, rainy, 10-15°C | Low |
Sedir Island can only be reached by boat from the nearby coastal towns. The nearest major city with transport links is Muğla. Access requires a combination of land transport and boat transfer. The most common departure points for boats are Marmaris and Göcek.
The ruins of Cedrae comprise Lycian and Roman-era remains including a theater, baths, and city walls. This archaeological site is the primary historical attraction on the island. Average visit duration is 1 to 2 hours.
A protected sandy beach famous for white sand with a unique mineral composition, including seashell fragments. Visitors use this area mostly for swimming and sunbathing. Average time spent: 1 to 3 hours.
The island is part of a national park with natural pine forests and protected marine areas. Visitors can explore nature walking trails around the island perimeter. Average walking tours last 1 to 2 hours.
A half-day visit can cover the main beach and ruins. A full day allows time for walking around the island and relaxed beach activities. Two to three days are sufficient for a more detailed exploration combined with boat tours from surrounding towns.
| Climate | Mediterranean climate; hot dry summers, mild wet winters |
|---|---|
| Seasonality notes | Peak season April to October; island closed or limited access during winter |
| Crowd levels | High in July and August; moderate in shoulder seasons; low in winter |
| Constraints or limitations | Restricted vehicle access; limited facilities; boat-dependent access |
Sedir Island attracts cultural tourists interested in ancient ruins, nature travelers who seek protected environments, and beach visitors focused on unique natural sand beaches. Access restrictions limit large crowds and favor individual or small group visits.
One full day is sufficient for key activities such as exploring the ruins and enjoying the beaches. A half day can cover main highlights but limits leisure time. A two to three-day visit allows extended nature walks and relaxation.
The island is generally safe with no significant crime reported. Visitors should note limited medical facilities and ensure safety when swimming or hiking. Boat transfers operate under regulated conditions during the tourist season.
The best time is April through October when the weather is warm and dry, suitable for outdoor activities. July and August are the busiest months with higher temperatures and visitor numbers. Winter months have limited access and cooler, rainy weather.