Turkey’s Hidden Gem: Affordable Paradise with Maldives-Like Crystal Waters
Turkey’s Hidden Gem: Suluada Island, the “Maldives of the Mediterranean”
By Esther Marshall
Updated: 12:05 BST, 20 May 2025
[Image 1: Aerial view of Suluada’s white sands and turquoise waters. Caption: Suluada Island offers Maldives-like beauty near Antalya, Turkey.]
For travelers seeking paradise without the price tag, Turkey’s Suluada Island is making waves as an idyllic alternative to the Maldives. Just a 40-minute boat ride from Antalya, this uninhabited oasis—aptly named “Water Island”—boasts powdery white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and serene landscapes.
A Secluded Escape
Unlike bustling resorts, Suluada remains blissfully undeveloped. Villa Plus Turkey describes it as a “postcard-perfect” destination, where visitors swim in azure seas and relax on untouched shores. The island’s two small beaches are ideal for sunbathing, while inland trails wind through olive groves, offering hikers glimpses of Mediterranean wildlife. Lucky visitors might even spot dolphins or endangered monk seals offshore.
[Image 2: Tourists snorkeling in Suluada’s vibrant waters. Caption: The island’s clear seas attract snorkelers and wildlife enthusiasts.]
Affordable Luxury
Tripadvisor reviews rave about Suluada’s value. One user, Nadine M, calls it a “superb beach with a beautiful landscape,” while traveler Eliff praises its “perfectly clear water,” dubbing it a “must-visit.” With no entry fees and budget-friendly boat tours from Antalya (starting at £15 per person), it’s a cost-effective tropical getaway.
Why Brits Love It
Recent data from On the Beach reveals Turkey as 2025’s top summer spot for UK travelers, with bookings up 54% since 2023. Antalya, Suluada’s gateway, is a major draw—especially with Konyaaltı Beach recently recording Europe’s warmest seawater temperature at 27.8°C.
[Image 3: Konyaaltı Beach’s bustling coastline. Caption: Nearby Antalya’s beaches blend vibrant energy with warm waters.]
Planning Your Visit
Day trips to Suluada typically include snorkeling stops and picnic lunches. For a quieter experience, visit midweek. Pair the island with a stay in Antalya to contrast secluded relaxation with the city’s ancient sites and lively markets.
As tourist numbers rise, Suluada remains a testament to Turkey’s natural allure—proof that paradise doesn’t require a premium price.
[Image 4: Sunset over Suluada’s horizon. Caption: The island’s untouched beauty promises unforgettable sunsets.]
Shared from Daily Mail Travel
