Kekova Island Sunken City

Kekova Island Sunken City: Our most recommended tours and activities

Antalya/Kemer: Kekova Sunken City, Demre & Lycia Day Tour

Antalya/Kemer: Kekova Sunken City, Demre & Lycia Day Tour

Explore ancient Lycia on a day trip and yacht cruise from Antalya. See a historic rock tomb from Lycian times, marvel at ancient Greco-Roman amphitheaters, and sail to the beautiful Kekova Island. Meet your driver outside your hotel and begin your adventure with a drive through the ancient state of Lycia. Marvel at an ancient rock tomb from the Lycian times and stop to visit the Greco - Roman amphitheater. Next, visit the church of St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker in Demre city. This ancient church sits above the 4th-century burial place of St. Nicholas, the original inspiration for Santa Claus. Enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to Kekova Island. Board a glass-windowed-bottomed yacht and sail through pristine waters to reach this fascinating island. Sail by the mysterious sunken city of Kekova, an ancient Lycia city, destroyed by an earthquake. Spot the ruins of the city and the Simena Castle from the side of the boat and under the water through the glass bottom windows. Before heading back, jump into the refreshing water for a swim. Finally, return to your hotel, having experienced Turkey's rich ancient history.

Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour

Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour

Kekova, with its breathtaking scenery and rich historical heritage, indeed presents an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and ancient wonders. Renaming it "Heaven" would aptly capture the essence of this picturesque destination. The turquoise waters of Kekova, adorned with numerous coves and bays, provide a serene backdrop to its historical sites. One of the most notable attractions is the Kekova Sunken City, a mesmerizing testament to the intertwining of nature and history. Exploring Kekova typically involves visiting several key locations, including the charming villages of Ucagiz and Kalekoy/Simena. Kalekoy, with its renowned fortress and inviting narrow streets, offers a glimpse into the region's storied past. Visitors on boat tours from Kas to Kekova have the opportunity to experience the allure of Kalekoy and indulge in its famous peach ice cream—a delightful treat not to be missed. Kekova Island, situated across from the Simena peninsula, bears the scars of its tumultuous history, marked by earthquakes and invasions. Despite its challenges, the island has endured and now stands as a protected area, offering glimpses of Byzantine ruins, including the remnants of a church in Tersane Bay. Akvaryum Bay, known for its crystalline waters, beckons travelers for a refreshing swim accessible only by boat. In summary, Kekova, aptly renamed "Heaven," encapsulates the harmonious convergence of nature's splendor and mankind's enduring legacy, making it a truly enchanting destination for explorers and history enthusiasts alike. The itinerary for a boat tour around Kekova offers an array of captivating stops, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. Here's a brief overview of each stop: İnönü Bay: Known for its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, İnönü Bay provides a peaceful setting for swimming and relaxation. Aquarium Bay: As its name suggests, Aquarium Bay boasts crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and observing marine life beneath the surface. Sunken City: One of the highlights of the tour, the Sunken City of Kekova offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past, with submerged ruins visible from the boat's deck. Simena Castle or Kaleköy: This historical site features the ruins of a medieval castle overlooking the picturesque village of Kaleköy. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Shipyard Bay: Shipyard Bay is steeped in history, once serving as a harbor for shipbuilding during ancient times. Today, it offers a scenic stop for swimming and admiring the coastal scenery. Pine Bay: Surrounded by lush pine forests, Pine Bay provides a serene setting for a leisurely swim or a picnic on the shoreline. Each stop along the tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making the Kekova boat tour an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to explore Turkey's stunning coastline.

From Demre: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

From Demre: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

Join a full-day boat trip to Kekova. This trip departs in the morning to maximize daylight hours for the best views of the surrounding landscape and ocean scenes. Prepare for a day of relaxation aboard the boat at Demre Harbor.  DEMRE HARBOUR Get ready for your action-packed day on the water! Make your way to Demre harbour before departing for the boat trip between 10:20 and 10.30 a.m. KEKOVA ISLAND AND SUNKEN CITY Discover the fascinating secrets of Kekova’s history on this unique adventure around Sunken City. The ancient city of Dolchiste was flooded due to an earthquake in the 2nd century, and its resulting underwater ruins never fail to leave an impression. Since this is a protected area, swimming is not permitted here, so what better way to explore the site than by cruising alongside the ruins on our boat, giving you the chance to capture unforgettable photos? SIMENA CASTLE Our boat will drop anchor in Kaleköy port (ancient Simena) for one hour, giving you time to visit this small authentic village home to castle ruins and a necropolis. A hike up the hillside will give you magnificent views of the Kekova region. If you’d prefer to admire Simena Castle from down below, you can use your remaining time to take another dip in the gorgeous blue waters. ESMERALDA BAY Time for a lunch and swim break at beautiful Esmeralda Bay, where you can enjoy peace and tranquillity during this fun journey. BURÇ BAY A 40-minute swim break in Burç Bay follows lunch. The sea is a little cooler in this area due to the cold underwater natural springs. GÖKKAYA BAY We’ll stop to swim in Gökkaya Bay, where you can experience the natural beauty of the area and opt to participate in one of the various exciting water sports on offer. PIRATES CAVE Discover this intriguing naturally-formed cave renowned for its large size and curved entrance. KAREMLIK BAY There are eight known types of turtles worldwide, 5 of which can be found in the Mediterranean. At Karemlik Bay, you’ll have the chance to look for these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. DEMRE HARBOUR After an exciting adventure, we’ll return to Demre Harbour, where this memorable boat trip ends.

Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

We depart Ucagiz at 09:30 am with motorized support vessel to escort us, and paddle southwest down the coast towards the Kekova Island and arrive Tersane bay at 10:15 am and followed by a swimming break. From there the group will slowly paddle over the ancient Lycian Sunken City of Kekova. Since this is a protected area, swimming is not permitted here. So what better way to explore the Sunken City than by Kayaking alongside the ruins; giving you the chance to capture unforgettable photos. After an exciting of adventure, we’ll head to Simena and arrive at 11:30 am, park in Kaleköy (ancient Simena Castle) for 45 mins, giving you time to visit this small authentic village that’s home to castle ruins and a necropolis. A hike up the hillside will give you magnificent views of the Kekova region. If you’d prefer to admire Simena Castle from down below, you can use your remaining time to take another dip in the gorgeous blue waters. In the afternoon we head back towards Theimussa for an up close view of more impressive Lycian sarcophagi and then return to our Kayak base. Following this you will move on to Üçağiz to enjoy lunch at 13:15 pm

From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova, Demre and Myra

From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova, Demre and Myra

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the lively town of Kaş, exploring the stunning coastline and ancient wonders of Demre. Here's a shortened version of the tour route: Kaş to Demre Harbor: Begin your adventure with a morning transfer from Kaş to Demre Harbor, where the boat awaits to kickstart your trip to Kekova. Kekova Island and Sunken City: Cruise along Kekova Island and witness the mesmerizing ruins of Sunken City. Capture unforgettable photos as you glide on our boat, marveling at the underwater remains of the ancient city of Dolchiste. Simena Castle: Drop anchor at Kaleköy port, also known as ancient Simena. Explore the authentic village, visit castle ruins, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Kekova region from atop the hillside. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear blue waters. Esmeralda Bay: Indulge in lunch and swim break at the serene Esmeralda Bay, basking in the tranquillity of this beautiful location. Burç Bay: Experience the cool waters of Burç Bay, enriched by cold underwater natural springs. Take a swim break and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the area. Gökkaya Bay: Enjoy another swim break in Gökkaya Bay, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Engage in thrilling water sports activities if you're up for an adventure. Pirates Cave: Explore the intriguing Pirates Cave, famous for its large size and curved entrance, a natural wonder that captivates visitors. Karemlik Bay: Keep an eye out for sea turtles in their natural habitat as you visit Karemlik Bay, where three of the seven known sea turtle species can be found. Demre Harbor: After the boat trip, anchor at Demre Harbor, where your tour continues with a visit to a nearby museum. Optional Stops: St. Nicholas Church: Explore the Santa Claus Museum, originally built as a church in memory of St. Nicholas of Myra. Discover the remains of this ancient church and immerse yourself in history. The Ancient City of Myra: Step back in time as you explore the famous archaeological site of Myra. Marvel at the Roman-style theater, the largest in Lycia, and the eerie rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs. Demre to Kaş: At the end of the day, return to the picturesque town of Kaş, where your tour concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of the sights and experiences you encountered.

From Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

From Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

Ucagiz Village Get ready for your action-packed day on the water! Make your way to Ucagiz Village harbour in time to depart for the boat trip between 10:20 and 10.40 am. Aquarium Bay Cool off during a whopping one-hour swim break in this picturesque bay next to Kekova Island, and be dazzled by its beauty. Turkish tea and biscuits service at Aquarium Bay. Kekova Island and Sunken City Discover the fascinating secrets of Kekova’s history on this unique adventure around the Sunken City. The ancient city of Dolchiste was flooded due to an earthquake in the 2nd century, and its resulting underwater ruins never fail to leave an impression. Burç Bay Swim break in Burç Bay. The sea is a little cooler in this area due to the cold underwater natural springs. Pirates Cave Discover this intriguing naturally-formed cave, which is renowned for its large size and curved entrance. Gökkaya Bay Time for a lunch and swim break at Gökkaya Bay, where you can experience the natural beauty of the area and opt to participate in one of the various exciting water sports on offer. Esmeralda Bay We’ll stop to swim in Esmeralda Bay where you can enjoy peace and tranquility during this fun journey. Simena Castle Our boat will drop anchor in Kaleköy port (ancient Simena) for one hour, giving you time to visit this small authentic village that’s home to castle ruins and a necropolis. A hike up the hillside will give you magnificent views of the Kekova region. If you’d prefer to admire Simena Castle from down below, you can use your remaining time to take another dip in the gorgeous blue waters. Ucagiz Village After an exciting day of adventure, we’ll head back to Ucagiz Village harbour where this memorable boat trip ends. From here you can make your way to the centre for dinner options or continue to your next destination.

Kas: (Small Group) Day Trip to Kekova Island, Demre & Myra

Kas: (Small Group) Day Trip to Kekova Island, Demre & Myra

Embark on an intimate small group tour from the charming town of Kaş to explore the stunning coastline and ancient marvels of Demre. The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring a more personalized and immersive experience as you discover the following highlights: Kaş to Demre Harbor: Commence your adventure with a morning transfer from Kaş to Demre Harbor, where the small group will board a boat to begin the journey to Kekova. Kekova Island and Sunken City: Cruise along Kekova Island to behold the captivating ruins of the Sunken City. Your small group will have the opportunity to capture mesmerizing moments as you sail, observing the submerged remnants of the ancient city of Dolchiste. Simena Castle: Drop anchor at Kaleköy port, also known as ancient Simena. Here, the small group can explore the authentic village, visit castle ruins, and savor breathtaking views of the Kekova region from the hillside. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear blue waters of this idyllic location. Esmeralda Bay: Enjoy a secluded lunch and swim break at the serene Esmeralda Bay, relishing the tranquility of this beautiful spot. Burç Bay: Delight in the cool waters of Burç Bay, fed by refreshing underwater natural springs. Your small group can take a leisurely swim and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the area. Gökkaya Bay: Make the most of another swim break in Gökkaya Bay, surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty. For those seeking adventure, engaging in thrilling water sports activities is an option. Pirates Cave: Discover the intriguing Pirates Cave, renowned for its size and distinctive curved entrance, a natural wonder that never fails to captivate visitors. Karemlik Bay: Look out for sea turtles in their natural habitat at Karemlik Bay, home to three of the seven known sea turtle species. Demre Harbor: After the boat trip, anchor at Demre Harbor, where your small group tour continues with a visit to a nearby museum. Optional Stops: St. Nicholas Church: Explore the Santa Claus Museum, originally constructed as a church in honor of St. Nicholas of Myra. Your small group can delve into the remains of this ancient church and immerse yourselves in its rich history. The Ancient City of Myra: Step back in time as your small group explores the renowned archaeological site of Myra. Marvel at the Roman-style theater, the largest in Lycia, and the haunting rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs. Demre to Kaş: Conclude your day by returning to the picturesque town of Kaş, where your small group tour ends, leaving you with cherished memories of the captivating sights and experiences you encountered.

From Antalya/ Alanya / Side / Kemer Demre Myra & Kekova Tour

From Antalya/ Alanya / Side / Kemer Demre Myra & Kekova Tour

Explore Kekova sunken city, destroyed by an earthquake during the 2nd century. Visit an ancient Greek amphitheater and the rock-cut tombs of the Lycian necropolis in Myra. After a hotel pickup from Antalya region, travel to Demre to visit the best examples of Lycian tombs at Myra Ancient City. According to Strabo, Myra was once a large city, making up one of the most influential parts of the Lycian League in the 1st and 2nd centuries BC. After visiting Myra, head to the Church of St. Nicholas. Admire this ancient East Roman basilica church dedicated to the saint who is otherwise referred to as Santa Claus. Stop for lunch at a restaurant in the center of Demre. After lunch, sail over turquoise waters to the Kekova Island for Kekova sunken city tour. Discover the extraordinary underwater ruins of the sunken city of Simena. Learn the history of the noteworthy Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa. There are opportunities to swim and snorkel, so do not forget your bathing suit and towel.

Kalkan: Day Trip to Demre, Myra and Kekova Island

Kalkan: Day Trip to Demre, Myra and Kekova Island

Discover the ancient ruins of Kekova and Demre on this guided, full-day outing. Enjoy visits to Kaleköy port, Demre Port, Karmelik bay, and various other picturesque locations of historical significance. Start your adventure with a trip to Demre Harbor. Hop aboard the boat that will be waiting for you and set-off on your journey to Kekova. Be amazed by the Sunken City of Kekova and marvel at a city submerged after a powerful earthquake. See underwater ruins that are sure to amaze you. Explore the site by cruising along the ruins on your boat. Make a stop at Kaleköy port, also known as ancient Simena. Receive an hour to explore the charming village which boasts castle ruins and a necropolis. If you choose to hike up the hillside, you will be rewarded with spectacular vistas of the Kekova region. Alternatively, you can spend your remaining time swimming in the crystal-clear waters or simply admiring Simena Castle from below. Take a lunch and swim break at the stunning Esmeralda Bay and experience the peaceful surroundings. The water feels cooler here thanks to the natural cold springs beneath the surface. Gökkaya Bay is another stop where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural surroundings and choose to engage in any of the thrilling water sports available. Explore the fascinating Pirates Cave, known for its impressive size and unique curved entrance that has formed naturally over time. In Karemlik Bay, you can observe three of the seven known sea turtle species in their natural habitat. Once you complete your exciting boat ride, your boat will anchor at Demre Port. From there, your tour will proceed with a visit to a nearby museum. You can opt for an optional stop to visit the Santa Claus Museum, located in the centre of Demre town. Explore the renowned archaeological site of Demre and witness the ancient ruins of Myra dating back to the 5th century B.C. Immerse yourself in history as you observe the impressive Roman-style theatre, the largest in Lycia, and the eerie rock-cut tombs that are carved into the cliffs above. Finish your day of adventure with transportation back to the charming town of Kalkan where your tour will officially come to an end.

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise

Sail Turkey: Olympos to Fethiye Gulet Cruise

The cruise that heads onto Fethiye, the most famous Blue Cruise leaving Olympos, runs onto Fethiye. Taking four days and three nights, this cruise highlights most people's time in Turkey. The cruise has something for everyone; whether it is the ancient sights or the beautiful turquoise waters for your swimming and snorkeling, no one will leave disappointed. You leave Olympos / Demre Harbour bound for the famous Sunken City of Kekova and Simena Castle. This will be one of the many highlights of your Turkey gulet holidays experience. You will spend the day in the Kekova area before visiting the little fishing village of Kas on the following day. There is time for shopping and plenty of swimming on your gulet cruise. The next day you will wake up in Butterfly Valley, where you can hike or enjoy the view. You will then cruise past Europe's most photographed beach, Oludeniz, anchoring on the backside of the Blue Lagoon before you finally anchor down at St Nicholas Island, where you can go and explore the ruins and enjoy your last night on board. Throughout your gulet cruise, you and the other guests will be offered the chance to undertake some optional activities of paragliding and diving; you will get the opportunity to relax and swim in some stunning bays while enjoying the whole time plentiful Turkish dishes and hospitality. You will be traveling on a standard Turkish gulet – a yacht. The gulet is equipped with everything you need for your days and nights onboard. You will have ensuite private bathrooms in each cabin and plenty of space inside to store your bags. You can visit our gulet boats Turkey page for information about gulets and different private gulet options. Your Blue Cruise will end in Fethiye harbor on the fourth day around lunchtime. The Olympos to Fethiye blue cruise route is Turkey's most popular gulet cruise route because of the variety of particular destination sites this coastline includes. The coastline keeps relics from the ancient Lycians, Ottomans, Romans, and Greeks, making your gullet cruise turkey experience unforgettable.

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What people are saying about Kekova Island Sunken City

Overall rating

4.2
(43 reviews)

Very friendly, informative and competent support (Tülay). Not only were the local sights explained, there was also a lot of interesting information during the trip. All the stops were well worth seeing, and the lunch was delicious. Unfortunately, our hotel was 6.5 km outside the pick-up area and we had to take a taxi to an agreed pick-up point very early, which increased the total price a little. The driver was very nice and we felt safe. The 4-hour return trip felt a bit long because there were no more stops apart from the hotels. 😉 I can recommend the trip without reservation.

Inci was a fantastic quide. We loved the tour! We hope we can do other tours with her in the future. the driver was also very good! He drove safe. thank you for all! Krisztina from Hungary

The trip was excellent, we enjoyed every minute of it. Our guide Inci was really good and very knowledgeable. Definitely recommend to experience the tour.

The old tour guide was very good, very talkative and enthusiastic. The sunken city is really beautiful

A perfect day . Many thanks to our guide Ulker. Very professional. Thank you Ulker again.