Kayak through the protected waters of Kekova Bay, paddling over the partially submerged ruins of an ancient Lycian city destroyed by earthquake, where walls, staircases, and cisterns are visible through the crystal-clear water.
Sea kayaking through the sheltered waters of Kekova Bay offers one of the most historically immersive paddling experiences in the Mediterranean world. Tours depart from the village of Üçağız on Turkey's Lycian coast, approximately 50 kilometres west of Kaş, and navigate through a protected inland sea formed by the limestone island of Kekova. The southern shoreline of the island conceals the partially submerged remains of an ancient Lycian city — known as Batık Şehir, the Sunken City — whose walls, staircases, storage chambers, and harbour installations were lowered into the sea by a major earthquake in the 2nd century AD.
Kayakers drift above the ruins at depths of 1–8 metres through water of extraordinary clarity, watching stone staircases descend into the turquoise depths and doorless window-frames open onto the sandy bottom below. The Turkish government designates Kekova as an underwater archaeological heritage zone: swimming and snorkelling directly above the submerged structures are prohibited to prevent site disturbance, but kayaking over them is permitted. This restriction gives paddle-based access a significant advantage over motor-boat tours, positioning visitors directly above the ruins with minimal wake and unlimited observation time.
Guided half-day and full-day kayak tours operate from both Üçağız and Kaş. Full-day programmes typically include a stop at Simena Castle (Kale) — a Byzantine-era fortress perched above a tiny island village of only a few dozen permanent residents, beside a Lycian sarcophagus that protrudes from the lane between houses. Lunch at a waterside restaurant in Üçağız or on a shaded platform is usually included in full-day packages.
Kayaks are almost always sit-on-top models requiring no paddling experience to operate. Participants need only basic physical fitness and comfort on the water; minimal paddle technique is acquired within the first 20–30 minutes of guided time on the bay. Children from approximately age 8 can participate safely in tandem kayaks. The protected bay means swell is negligible, making conditions consistently suitable for novice paddlers throughout the season from April through November.
Activity facts
- Where
- Kekova Bay, Üçağız, Antalya province
Highlights
- Paddle directly above 2nd-century AD Lycian ruins submerged 1–8 metres below the surface
- Crystal-clear waters of the UNESCO-recognised Kekova Bay with 10–15 metre visibility
- Visit Simena Castle (Kale) perched above a tiny Lycian island village
- Sit-on-top kayaks requiring no prior experience — suitable for families and beginners
- Full-day tours include lunch at a traditional waterside restaurant in Üçağız village
Tips for visiting
- Depart as early as possible (8–9 am) to reach the sunken city before day-tour motorboats generate wakes that reduce underwater visibility
- Bring a waterproof phone case or action camera — the ruins are clearly visible through the water from a kayak on calm days
- Swimming and snorkelling directly above the ruins is prohibited under Turkish archaeological law; respect these rules to avoid fines
- Full-day tours covering Simena Castle and more of the coastline are worth the extra cost over half-day options
- Apply sunscreen before departure — the open bay provides little shade during mid-day paddling hours
Frequently asked questions
Do I need kayaking experience to join a tour?
No prior experience is required. Sit-on-top kayaks are stable and guides provide a brief paddling orientation before departure. Most participants feel comfortable within 20–30 minutes on the bay.
Can visitors swim at the sunken city?
Swimming and snorkelling directly above the ruins are prohibited under Turkish underwater archaeological protection law. Motorboat anchoring in the zone is also banned. Kayaking above the site is permitted.
How far is Kekova from Antalya city?
Kekova is approximately 3 hours by road from central Antalya via Kaş. Many visitors combine this activity with an overnight stay in Kaş or Üçağız to avoid a very long round-trip day.
What is the best season to kayak Kekova Bay?
April through June and September through November offer ideal conditions — warm water, calm bay surfaces, and fewer crowds. July and August are busier but remain manageable in the early morning.
Are single and double kayaks both available?
Most operators offer both solo and tandem kayaks. Tandems are standard for families with children or participants who prefer to share paddling effort with a guide or partner.