Tucked into the turquoise embrace of the Mediterranean, Suluada is a brilliance of white sand, crystal-clear water, and volcanic cliffs—a hidden gem just off Adrasan Bay. On this day-boat journey, you trade ancient ruins for radiant beaches, temple columns for sunlight dancing over lagoon-like shallows. It’s the perfect island interlude for those craving peaceful beauty and effortless swimming.
Suluada is often referred to as the "Turkish Maldives"—a nickname that speaks to its pale sands and radiant shallows. Honestly, we’ve never been to the Maldives, but we don’t quite think the comparison holds. While Suluada offers an undeniably picturesque escape, it’s something different—less tropical luxury, more remote charm. Still, the experience is genuinely memorable and worth it for its unspoiled feel and pristine swim spots.
Departing from Adrasan: the gateway to Suluada
Adrasan itself is quietly scenic—a long curve of sandy beach backed by pine-cloaked hills and dotted with charming pensions, local cafés, and the occasional boat bobbing on clear water. With about 2,600 permanent residents, Adrasan’s economy now centers around tourism in summer, serving as the stage for excursions along the Lycian coast.
After morning hotel pickup in Antalya or meeting at the port, the convoy follows winding coastal roads through oregano-scented hills toward Adrasan’s dock—the launch point for your Suluada escape.
From here, traditional Turkish gulets and modern yachts set off across shimmering blue water toward the island, about 15 km offshore and roughly a 45-minute boat ride away.
First stop: Suluada's sheltered beach
As the boat leaves the mainland, the Antalyan coastline fades behind you. In the distance, Suluada rises, its white beach glinting under mid-morning sun. Named “Suluada”—“watery island”—for its freshwater springs, the island is entirely uninhabited and pristinely preserved.
Once docked, you disembark directly onto its shore, where the fine sand shifts underfoot and the water glows bright turquoise near the edges.
There’s time here for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, or simply standing waist-deep in silence. The sea feels clean, buoyant, and surprisingly warm. Some guests climb toward the cliffs to take in the view, others wade among schools of fish barely disturbed by the waves.
Views of Suluada from boat and beach—where golden cliffs meet vivid turquoise shallows under an open Mediterranean sky
Geologically volcanic, Suluada’s cliffs give the coastline a rugged silhouette—dramatic, craggy, and speckled with Mediterranean flora. Historically, it wasn’t inhabited, but it may have served as a freshwater stopover for ancient sailors navigating the Lycian coast. It remains unspoiled today, with no buildings, roads, or services—just sand, stone, and sea.
After Suluada
Following the longest and most immersive stop at Suluada, the boat continues on to one or two other bays or coves. These vary by day and sea conditions, but are typically smaller, quiet swimming spots surrounded by pine-dotted cliffs or rugged rock shelves. There’s always time to dive in, float beneath the sky, or stretch out on the boat’s top deck in shade or sun.
By late afternoon, the boat retraces its path back to Adrasan—slipping through waves now glittering in golden light. What was once anticipation becomes contentment.
A day at sea
This trip offers more than just a pretty beach. You swim in the sun, eat lunch at sea, nap beneath shade, and watch cliffs tumble into azure.
Hues are brighter here—the sea, the cliff rock, the pond-green of pine, the metallic glint of boat rail. The scents are earthier: salt, resin, thyme, and warm sand. And the touch of water, cool and buoyant, feels renewed with every stroke.
For those who want a break from ruins, crowds, and cities—just sun, sea, and simple beauty—this Suluada day trip offers all you need: boat cruise, multiple swim stops, lunch onboard, a guide, and round-trip transfer from Antalya or Kemer.
