Kekova is the single most famous excursion from Kaş, and it earns the reputation. Several centuries ago earthquakes and a slow rise in sea level drowned part of an ancient Lycian settlement, and today the foundations, stairways and harbour walls of that town lie a metre or two under clear water along the shore of a long, sheltered island. From a boat you look down through the surface and see rectangular rooms, steps leading into the sea and fragments of masonry, which is a very different experience from walking round a ruin on dry land. The channel between the island and the mainland is calm, which is why the area has been a stopping place for sailors for thousands of years. A typical day boat leaves the harbour in the morning, runs along the coast for a couple of hours, and then slows through the Kekova channel. Guides point out the sunken stairways and the sarcophagi that stand in the shallows and on the shore, and the boat anchors at least once for swimming in clean, turquoise water. Swimming directly over the protected ruins is not allowed, so the swim stop is in a nearby cove. Lunch is usually served on board or at a waterside restaurant, and many itineraries include time ashore at Kaleköy, a tiny village of stone houses under a ruined hilltop fortress, reachable only by boat or a long road.
What the day is really like
The boat ride is the heart of it, so choose a spot with some shade and bring a hat, sunglasses and a light layer, because the sea breeze can feel cool even in summer. Most operators run a shared boat with a mix of nationalities, a simple lunch and soft drinks sold on board.
Departure is generally mid-morning and you return in the late afternoon, which fits comfortably between a late breakfast and an evening meal in town. Swimming is optional, but pack a towel and water shoes, since the coves have pebbles and some rocks.
The ruins you will see are spread over several places. The sunken quarter lies along the shore of Kekova Island, the village of Kaleköy (ancient Simena) has a hillside of Lycian tombs and a small theatre cut into the slope near the castle, and the little harbour of Üçağız holds sarcophagi that appear half in and half out of the water.
If you want to walk up to the castle at Kaleköy you will have a short but steep climb on uneven paths, so wear shoes with grip and allow time. A good guide makes the most of the visit by explaining the Lycian rock-cut tombs, which imitate wooden houses, and the way the coastline has shifted.
Timing and conditions
Boats sail from spring to autumn, with the longest choice of departures in summer. In winter the weather can be rough and many operators pause or run on request only, so confirm the dates before you plan around it. Visibility under water is best on calm, sunny days, and sunlight in the middle of the day gives the clearest view of the stairways.
If you get seasick easily, take a tablet before you board, because the coast road to the departure harbour is winding and the open section of sea can be lively on windy days. Families with young children are welcome on most shared boats, though the sun is strong and there is little shade at the bow.
Alternatives and extras
If you prefer to see the ruins at water level, there are sea-kayaking tours that cover the same shoreline, and a longer day trip combines Kekova with the church of St Nicholas at Demre and the rock tombs at Myra. Private boats allow you to set your own pace and are a good choice for groups, while the shared day boat is the best value for most visitors.
What to expect
The experience
A shared day boat from Kaş harbour along the Lycian coast to the Kekova channel, with commentary, a swim stop and lunch.
Best time
Clear, calm days from late spring to early autumn, mid-day for the best underwater visibility.
How long
A full day, usually mid-morning to late afternoon.
Tips
Bring sun protection, a towel, water shoes and a light layer, and check your boat has some shade.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time visitors who want the headline sight of the Kaş coast.
- Families
- Calm water and a relaxed pace suit most families, though there is little shade on deck.
- Couples
- Slow cruising through quiet coves with a long lunch and a swim.
- Pair with
- Demre and Myra, Kekova sea kayaking, or a sunset drink in Kaş harbour.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Can you swim over the sunken city?+
No. Swimming directly over the protected ruins is not allowed. Boats slow down so you can look through the water, and the swimming stop is in a nearby cove.
Do I need to bring lunch?+
Most day boats include a simple lunch. Check what your boat includes when you book and carry a snack and water for the return.
Is the Kekova trip suitable for young children?+
Usually yes on a shared boat, with sun protection and a hat. The boat ride is long, so bring something to keep younger children occupied.
When do the boats run?+
The main season runs from spring to autumn. In winter, weather can cancel sailings, so confirm with the operator.
How do I see the ruins without a boat?+
You can reach Kaleköy and Üçağız by road, but the sunken stairways are best seen from the water, so a boat or kayak tour is the usual way.