Side-Turkey.

Suluada is the little uninhabited island off Adrasan that everyone calls the "Maldives of Turkey" — and once you see the water, you understand why. The coves glow a clear, pale turquoise over light sand, which makes it one of the friendliest swimming spots on the Turkish Riviera for families. This guide walks you through what a family day to Suluada actually feels like, how to make the snorkelling fun for kids, and the small things that make a big difference when you bring little ones along.

What a family day to Suluada looks like

Boats set out from Adrasan harbour and cruise across to Suluada and the bays around it, anchoring in sheltered water for swimming and snorkelling stops. Lunch is often served on board, so there is a natural rhythm to the day: cruise, swim, eat, swim again. Because the boat does the moving, parents can relax between stops while kids watch the coast slide by.

One honest note for Side-based families: Suluada sits on the western, Kemer/Antalya side of the coast, so the road transfer from Side and Manavgat is longer than for tours closer to home. It is well worth it for the water, but plan for an early start and keep the car-ride snacks handy.

Snorkelling with kids in the clear coves

The clarity of the water here is the whole point, and it makes snorkelling gentle and rewarding even for first-timers. A few simple habits keep it safe and fun.

Get the gear right

Bring a mask that actually fits small faces — an adult mask that leaks is the fastest way to end a child's enthusiasm. A buoyancy aid or swim vest gives nervous swimmers confidence to put their face in and look down. Let kids practise breathing through the snorkel in the shallows before they head out.

Stay close and stay shaded

Always snorkel beside your child, not behind them, and agree on a hand signal for "I want to stop." Between swims, the sun reflecting off pale sand and water is strong, so reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest and shade on board matter more than people expect.

Packing and timing tips for families

Suluada is a protected natural area, which is part of its charm: the bays are unspoilt, but facilities are minimal and undeveloped. Treat it like a wild-beach day rather than a resort. Pack water and snacks for the children, sun protection, a towel each, water shoes for pebbly entries, dry clothes and a small bag for wet swimsuits. Whatever you carry in, carry out — keeping the island pristine is everyone's job.

Departure and return times, transfer length and what is served on board are all set by the day's schedule, so we confirm those details with you at booking rather than guessing here.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Boat trip out to Suluada and surrounding bays with swimming and snorkelling stops, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Boat trip from Adrasan, swimming & snorkelling stops, lunch often served on board (confirmed at booking)
• Excludes: Personal snorkelling gear, drinks and extras unless stated, tips (confirmed at booking)
• Family Friendly: Yes — calm coves and clear, shallow-entry water suit children and beginner snorkellers
• Best Season: Late spring through early autumn, when the sea is warm and settled
• Difficulty: Easy and relaxed; swimming is optional and at your own pace

Related Excursions

• Boat trips & tours from Side
• Things to do in Antalya
• Kemer boat trips & excursions
• Alanya tours & day trips
• Belek excursions
• More travel tips on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Suluada suitable for young children?

Yes. The sheltered coves and exceptionally clear water make it one of the gentler swimming spots on the coast. As with any boat day, keep little ones supervised and bring a swim vest for non-swimmers.

Do we need to bring our own snorkelling gear?

Bringing your own well-fitting masks — especially child sizes — is the safest bet. Whether gear is provided on board is confirmed at booking.

Are there shops or cafes on the island?

No. Suluada is a protected, uninhabited island with minimal, undeveloped facilities, so bring your own water and snacks and take all rubbish back with you.

How long is the transfer from Side?

Suluada is reached from the Kemer/Antalya side of the coast, so the road transfer from Side and Manavgat is longer than for nearer tours. Exact timing is confirmed at booking.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is often served on board. What exactly is included is confirmed at booking.

What should families pack?

Water, snacks, reef-safe sunscreen, hats, towels, water shoes, dry clothes and a bag for wet swimwear. Shade and sun protection are essential for kids.

Can non-swimmers enjoy the trip?

Absolutely. Swimming is optional, the cruise and scenery are lovely on their own, and a swim vest lets cautious swimmers join in safely.

Is booking direct cheaper?

Booking direct with us removes agency and OTA commission, and we back it with a best-price guarantee — no middleman markup.

Ready to plan your family day to the Maldives of Turkey? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. As a local operator we cut out agency and OTA commissions and back every booking with our best-price guarantee.