The Islands · Sedef
Sedef Adası — Mother-of-Pearl Island
The quiet, largely private fifth island — pine forest, famously clean water, and no public ferry.
Key facts
- Island
- Sedef Adası ('Mother-of-Pearl')
- Status
- 5th populated · mostly private
- Size
- 0.157 km²
- Known for
- Clean water · pine forest
- Access
- Private boat, usually from Büyükada
Little Sedef Adası ("Mother-of-Pearl Island") is the fifth populated Princes' Island — a quiet, largely private pine-covered islet with some of the cleanest water in the archipelago.
What it is
Sedef is small (about 0.16 km²) and mostly private property. Its pine forest was planted by the businessman Şehsuvar Menemencioğlu, who bought the island in 1956 and imposed a strict building code (houses no taller than two floors) to keep it green. The sea around it is reputed to be the cleanest of Istanbul's islands; the "beach" is a concrete swimming platform with deck chairs rather than sand.
Can you visit?
There's no scheduled public ferry stop, so Sedef isn't set up for general sightseeing. Access is by private or residents' boat, typically connecting from Büyükada. Most day-trippers admire it from the water rather than landing. Compare the islands →
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Not easily — there's no scheduled public ferry and much of the island is private. Access is by private boat, usually from Büyükada, so most visitors just see it from the water.
Being the quiet, green fifth populated island with famously clean water — a low-key, largely residential retreat rather than a day-trip destination.
By private or residents' boat, generally connecting from Büyükada; there's no regular public ferry service to Sedef.
Ready for the islands?
Book a guided day trip with a boat cruise, free time on Büyükada and lunch.