Kekova Island & Sunken City,Turkey

Kekova Island and the Sunken City (often associated with the Lycian settlements around Simena/Kaleköy and Üçağız) are a valuable archaeological and natural area on Turkey's southern Mediterranean coast (Antalya Province). The coast preserves submerged remains of Lycian, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine settlements—houses, walls, cisterns, tombs and sarcophagi—visible in clear shallow waters. The region is part of an officially protected area (Kekova Special Environmental Protection Area) due to its cultural heritage and sensitive marine ecosystems (seagrass meadows, fish populations). The site illustrates ancient coastal settlement patterns and dramatic landscape change caused by earthquakes and sea-level changes that partially submerged urban areas.

Places to visit

Sunken ruins and submerged walls visible from boats and in clear water
Kaleköy (Simena) village and its hilltop castle with panoramic views
Üçağız village (originally Kekova) — harbor, traditional houses and pier
Boat tours through Kekova protected area (half-day and full-day routes)
Nearby Lycian tombs, sarcophagi and necropolises along the coast
Scenic coastline, sea caves and hidden bays ideal for photography

Unique Aspects

Shallow, crystal-clear waters that reveal submerged foundations and pottery fragments
A protected maritime conservation zone with restricted anchoring and diving in parts
Combination of archaeological ruins and Mediterranean biodiversity (seagrass meadows)
Kaleköy castle ruins with stepped Lycian-style carved tombs and Byzantine layers
Traditional architecture and small, car-free village atmosphere on Kaleköy

Things to do

Taking a guided boat tour (glass-bottom boats or open motorboats) around the Kekova coast
Exploring Kaleköy (Simena): climbing to the castle, wandering lanes, dining by the sea
Kayaking along the protected coast (in permitted zones) to view ruins up close
Snorkeling in allowed areas to see submerged walls and marine life (respecting restrictions)
Hiking parts of the nearby Lycian Way and visiting coastal necropolises
Photography, birdwatching and relaxing in small bays

Best Time to Visit

Best time: Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) for mild weather, calm seas, fewer crowds and good visibility for viewing submerged ruins. July–August are crowded and hot; winter months may have limited boat services.

Weather Conditions

Typical Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers (July–August often 30–35°C) and mild, wetter winters. Spring and autumn offer pleasant daytime temperatures (18–26°C) and cooler evenings.

Accessibility

Primary access is by road to coastal villages and by sea. Boat tours depart from Üçağız (the main Kekova harbor), Kaş, Demre (Andriake region) and some nearby marinas. Nearest airports: Antalya Airport (AYT, ~170–220 km by road depending on route) and Dalaman Airport (DLM, ~140–200 km depending on direction). Roads to Üçağız and Kaleköy are narrow — expect winding coastal driving; Kaleköy is partly car-free and reached by boat or by walking through pedestrian lanes from the road.

Recommended Duration

Recommended stay: 1–2 days to take a boat tour and visit Kaleköy/Üçağız comfortably; staying overnight in Kaleköy (limited guesthouses) or nearby Kaş/Üçağız lets you experience sunset and quieter mornings. Add extra days if combining with Lycian Way hikes or nearby sites (Myra, Demre).

Clothing & Gear Tips

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen), light breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes and sandals or water shoes for rocky shores, swimwear and snorkel gear if you plan to swim in permitted areas, a waterproof bag for valuables, binoculars and camera. Bring a light jacket for evenings in spring/autumn.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Enjoy fresh seafood, meze plates, grilled fish and local Turkish dishes at seaside restaurants; try regional citrus fruits, honey and olive oil. Souvenirs include handcrafted textiles, local olive oil, ceramics and modestly themed Lycian replica items sold in tourist shops (do not buy genuine antiquities).