Kekova Island is a very popular destination that attracts many tourists every year. It's Turkey's largest island in the Mediterranean.
The Island of Kekova and the sunken city, are among the most visited places in the Mediterranean, both are unique historical locations underwater and on land.
You can visit this area with daily excursion boats and it has the cleanest waters in the Mediterranean as well.
In this article, you'll find the details you need to know before visiting the island, including attractions, history, mysterious ruins, tours, and many other tourist tips.
What Can I Do on Kekova Island?
Kekova Island is a natural beauty, covering about 4.5 square kilometers. The region's name comes from the island of Kekova, and it stretches across the towns of Kaleköy (Simena) and Üçağız (Teimioussa).
There has been no permanent population on the island since about the 1850's. Although, it's possible to see many yachts anchored in this area for weeks as it is a very popular destination for sailors, with its unspoiled nature.
There are many interesting places waiting to be discovered in the Kekova region, such as the ruins of Simena and Teimussa and the ruins of the ancient cities of Aperlai and Dolihiste.
Sunken City (Dolichiste)
You should definitely see the sunken city on the north side of the island overlooking Kaleköy. The ruins of the old streets and buildings are under the water and can be seen prominently. It's believed that the ancient city was submerged in the 2nd century BC as a result of a large earthquake (like Aperlai and Simena).
Tersane
Tersane was a former naval shipyard in ancient times. You can see the underwater ruins of a Byzantine church as well. Tersane bay is located on the northwest part of the island. Excursion boats usually stop there to swim and observe.
The reflection of the sunlight in the blue cave, which is large enough to enter by boat, creates wonderful views.
Entrance, Tickets, and Tours
How to Get to Kekova Island
Transportation to the island is provided only by boats. Excursion boats depart from the town of Üçağız, which is a lovely fishing village in Demre.
- By Car : You should follow the Üçağız signs that you will encounter while driving from Kaş towards Side, Antalya with your vehicle. You can rent a car easily from Antalya to reach this place. Check our guide to renting a car in Antalya.
- Public Transportation : You can get the Antalya - Kekova bus from Kaş, Kalkan, Finike, and Demre city center to reach the village of Üçağız in Demre.
Check out the distances from nearby towns to Üçağız using this link.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Kekova is located just 3.5 hours from Kaş harbor by boat. It's possible to reach the island in 30 minutes with a boat from the Üçağız Port.
There are many interesting places waiting to be discovered in the Kekova region, such as the ruins of Simena and Teimussa and the ruins of the ancient cities of Aperlai and Dolihiste.
Sunken City (Dolichiste)
You should definitely see the Sunken City on the north side of the island overlooking Kaleköy. The ruins of the old streets and buildings are under the water and can be seen prominently. It's believed that the ancient city was submerged in the 2nd century BC as a result of a large earthquake (like Aperlai and Simena).
Tersane
Tersane was a former naval shipyard in ancient times. You can see the underwater ruins of a Byzantine church as well. Tersane bay is located on the northwest part of the island. Excursion boats usually stop there to swim and observe.
The reflection of the sunlight in the blue cave, which is large enough to enter by boat, creates wonderful views.
In ancient times, Kekova was known as Dolihiste. Dolihiste sank in to the sea after a strong earthquake in the 2nd century BC. The earth in this area sank several meters and the coast of the city sank under the water. This is how the island of Kekova was formed.
Kekova Island is located in the town of Demre in Antalya. The geography of the mainland coasts, Kekova Bay, and Kekova Island are defined as the Kekova region.
Hotels Near Kekova Island
Here you will find 4 suggestions of the nicest accommodations close to Kekova Island:
- La Kumsal Hotel : La Kumsal Hotel offers stunning views of the sea and Meis Island. Most of the rooms have a sea view. The day starts with an open buffet breakfast here. The à la carte restaurant serves unique tastes of Mediterranean cuisine. Kaş town center is 5 km from the hotel. Address : Cukurbağ Yarım Adası Beyhan Cenkci Cad. No: 74, Kaş
- Alley Prime Hotel : Is an ideal luxury hotel in Kaş with relaxing rooms. Address : Andifli Mahallesi, Bulent Kalkavan Sokak No: 14/1, Kaş 07580 Turkey
- Kekova Pansiyon : Kekova Pansiyon is situated on the seaside in a very historical village surrounded by ruins. It has 8 very large rooms all facing the sea. You can taste traditional home made meals and enjoy the lounging area by the sea. Address : Üçagız Koyu, Kekova
- Em-Ba Butik Bungalow: Em-Ba Boutique Bungalow offers a holiday in touch with nature in Demre. It's a short distance from the sea and promises a pleasant holiday in Antalya with its lush garden and peaceful atmosphere. It's both affordable and fun. Address: Beymelek, Şht. İbrahim Çelik Cd. No:129, 07570 Demre/Antalya
The History of Kekova Island
The word "Kekova" in Turkish means "plain of thyme". This describes the region that includes the island of Kekova, the villages of Kaleköy and Üçagız and the three ancient cities of Simena, Teimussa, and Tersane (which means "shipyard", since its bay was the site of an old shipyard, with mostly Byzantine ruins).
Kekova was re-established and developed during the Byzantine period, but its development could not continue due to Arab invasions.
The Kekova region was declared a Specially Protected Area in 1990 to protect the natural, cultural, and geographical wealth of Kekova Island and the surrounding coastline. The Kekova protected area is 260 km² and is managed by the Ministry of the Environment, authority for the Protection of Special Areas in Turkey.
The area is not declared a "National Park" nevertheless. The places that border the villages of Üçagız and Kaleköy, as well as four ancient cities - Dolichiste, Aperlai, Simena, and Teimussu. The submerged cities were initially completely closed for diving and snorkeling, but later this ban was partially lifted.
In 2000, Kekova was nominated for World Heritage inscription and appears on UNESCO's "tentative list" in the cultural heritage category.
Contact
Have a look at other islands in the Antalya region: