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Kekova Sunken City
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Kekova Sunken City & Simena Castle

How to visit the Sunken City, choose the right boat tour & explore the car-free island of Simena

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At a Glance

Quick Facts

Location

Üçağız (Theimussa) Village, Demre, 45 min from Kaş

Highlights

Sunken City, Simena Castle, Tersane Bay, Pirates Cave

Access

Boat only, the Sunken City & Simena have no road access

Best Season

May, June, September & October, ideal temps, fewer crowds

There are very few places on Earth where both history and nature lie submerged together, where ancient Lycian sarcophagi rise from the sea like monuments. Kekova is the epicentre of this mesmerising atmosphere. Gliding past the ruins of a 2nd-century Lycian city, sunk by earthquakes, is an experience you will never forget.

How to Choose the Right Kekova Boat Tour

The most professional way to explore Kekova is aboard one of our private or shared boats departing from Üçağız (Theimussa) harbour. Boats from Kaş marina must cross open, often choppy seas, a long and less comfortable route. We strongly recommend driving to Üçağız (or using our transfer service) and starting your tour from the sheltered inner bay.

The highlight of the tour is Tersane Bay, the only spot within the Sunken City zone where swimming is permitted. Float above submerged Byzantine church ruins, spot ancient amphorae and stone staircases beneath you with mask and snorkel, an unforgettable experience.

Ready to explore the Sunken City?

Simena (Kaleköy): A Paradise Only Reachable by Sea

Imagine a historic village with zero road access, where the sound of motor vehicles has never been heard. Kaleköy, home to Simena Castle, enchants visitors with steep cobbled paths, famously delicious goat's milk Mediterranean ice cream, and the world's smallest Lycian theatre perched at the castle summit. Browse handmade scarves and sage teas sold by local women as you climb; once at the top, the panoramic view of the Kekova island archipelago is the photo of a lifetime.

More Adventures

Combine your Kekova trip with Meis Island, or dive deeper with our Kaş Scuba Diving Guide.

Ready to Sail?

Book Your Kekova Boat Trip

Shared or private, explore the Sunken City, Simena Castle & Tersane Bay with Define Tours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

No, swimming and scuba diving are strictly prohibited within the protected Sunken City area to preserve the ancient ruins. However, swimming is allowed in designated bays immediately outside the protected zone, including Tersane Bay where you can see submerged Byzantine ruins.
May, June, September, and October offer the most pleasant conditions, warm sea temperatures, comfortable air, and significantly fewer crowds than July–August.
The best departure point is Üçağız (Theimussa) Village near Demre. Boats from Kaş marina must cross open sea, making the journey much longer and rougher. We recommend driving to Üçağız (or using our transfer service) and starting the tour from the sheltered bay. Our Kekova boat trips include transfer from Kalkan.
Absolutely. The 15–20 minute uphill walk through the car-free village of Kaleköy rewards you with panoramic views over Kekova Bay and the scattered islands. The castle houses the world's smallest Lycian theatre (seating around 300 people) at its summit.