Kekova

A calm island area famous for ancient ruins visible beneath the water, explored by kayak.

Why it is worth visiting

Kekova is one of the rare places where history has, quite literally, gone underwater. Steps, walls and doorways visible beneath the clear shallows along the shore have earned the area its nickname, the “sunken city.” But it is not only the ruins that make Kekova special; these protected, silent coves offer one of the calmest coastal views on the Mediterranean.

The sunken city in context

The submerged structures date to a settlement known in antiquity as Dolichiste, partly drowned by earthquakes in the 2nd century CE. Striking as the phrase “sunken city” is, what you actually see are the remains of a coastal settlement left underwater by a change in sea level. To protect the ruins, diving and swimming are prohibited in the sunken city area.

Protection status

Together with the surrounding Kaş coast, Kekova was declared a Special Environmental Protection Area in 1990, becoming one of Türkiye’s first protected marine areas. The area of roughly 260 km² covers both the ancient ruins and the marine ecosystem. Rules for anchoring, swimming and access on boat and kayak trips follow from this protected status and can change from time to time; it is best to confirm the current situation with the official source.

Kayak and boat

The area is mostly explored by sea kayak or boat. A kayak stays close to the surface and is the quietest way to see the submerged remains. Boat trips usually set off from Üçağız (ancient Teimiussa) and Kaleköy and circle the coves.

Kaleköy and Simena

Kaleköy on the far shore is built over ancient Simena. The medieval castle crowning the village stands on Lycian ruins, and the view from it across to Kekova Island is one of the region’s finest. The climb to the castle is short but steep.

Planning a visit

There are a few ways to see Kekova, and the choice depends on what you are after. For a short, active trip, boat tours leaving from Üçağız or Kaleköy work well; those who want to see the submerged ruins closely and quietly prefer a sea kayak. As the sea is usually calmer before noon, morning trips are both more comfortable and clearer for photographs. Because the area is protected, tour routes, anchoring points and swimming permissions are set by official rules rather than by individual operators; confirming the current situation in advance makes the day easier.

Nearby

Demre, with the Church of Saint Nicholas and ancient Myra, fits into the same day. To the west, Kaş is the region’s liveliest base for diving and boat trips.