The secret island dubbed 'Turkish Maldives' with MUCH cheaper prices and crystal-clear waters

The secret island dubbed ‘Turkish Maldives’ with MUCH cheaper prices and crystal-clear waters

Published on: May 20, 2025

By ESTHER MARSHALL

Published: 12:03 BST, 20 May 2025 | Updated: 12:05 BST, 20 May 2025

A beautiful island in Turkey has been described as the country’s answer to the Maldives.

Suluada, which means ‘Water Island’, sits off the coast of Antalya, one of Turkey’s leading tourist destinations.

Despite its proximity to Antalya, the island is completely uninhabited making it a peaceful retreat for tourists looking to escape the crowds.

Visitors can reach the secluded paradise by taking a 40 minute boat trip from Antalya.

Villa Plus Turkey.com says: ‘Upon arriving visitors are greeted with a sight that seems straight out of a postcard.

‘The island’s coastline is fringed with fine, powdery white sand and the azure waters beckon for a refreshing swim.’

It adds that the island has managed to retain its ‘unspoiled natural beauty’ with ‘minimal development’.

Suluada’s crystal-clear water is a haven for wildlife with tourists in with a chance of spotting dolphins and monk seals.

A beautiful island in Turkey has been described as the country’s answer to the Maldives

Suluada, which means ‘Water Island’, sits off the coast of Antalya ,one of Turkey’s leading tourist destinations

Suluada has two beaches suitable for swimming while visitors can also head inland to hike among olive trees

A tourist ‘Nadine M’ writes on Tripadvisor: ‘Superb beach. Beautiful landscape. Very beautiful beach.’

‘Eliff’ writes: ‘Turkey’s Maldives. Excellent sea. The water is perfectly clear. It’s a must.’

Suluada has two beaches suitable for swimming while visitors can also head inland to hike among olive trees.

And plenty of Brits are choosing to holiday in Turkey this year.

Research by holiday company On the Beach has revealed that Turkey is the most popular summer destination in 2025.

It reports that bookings to Turkey have risen by 54 per cent in two years with Antalya one of the country’s leading destinations.

The news comes as Konyaalti Beach in Antalya was revealed to have Europe’s warmest seas at 27.8 degrees celsius.

The secret island dubbed ‘Turkish Maldives’ with MUCH cheaper prices and crystal-clear waters