Kekova

Kekova is a coastal island and adjacent stretch of shore in Antalya Province on Turkey’s southwestern coast, noted for visible submerged ancient ruins from the Lycian and Roman periods. The area is a well-known local natural and archaeological attraction reached by small boat from nearby harbours.

Small-boat excursions follow the shore past partially submerged walls, quays and foundations that are visible close to the waterline, allowing close views of the coastal ruins without large-scale excavation. The main departure points are the tiny harbours at Üçağız and Kaleköy/Simena, where landing is possible at sheltered coves.

Boat tours also circle Kekova Island, which is uninhabited and offers coastal scenery and swimming in clear Mediterranean water; many visitors combine a short walk ashore at Kaleköy with visits to nearby Lycian tombs and castle remains. The coastline is subject to protected-area rules, so visitors should follow local guidance about anchoring and diving.

The visible remains along the Kekova coast belong to Lycian and later Roman-period settlements and harbours that were partially submerged or damaged by earthquakes and coastal change. The ruined quays and coastal structures have been known to locals for centuries and became a focus for tourism and maritime protection in the late 20th century.

Kekova sits off the Antalya Province coast of southwestern Turkey, between the modern towns of Demre and Kaş; small boats run from Üçağız and Kaş to the island and sunken-coast sites along short daily routes.

• Boat access: Boat trips from Üçağız and nearby Kaş provide the most direct views of the submerged ruins and access to the protected coastal area.
• Protected area: The Kekova coast is a marine-protected area with restrictions on anchoring and diving in parts of the zone to preserve visible archaeological remains.

What to See #

• Kekova Island: A low, rocky island off the Antalya coast that sits immediately off the mainland and gives the wider area its name; the island is uninhabited and visible from boat routes along the shore.
• Sunken ruins (Kekova) : A stretch of partially submerged ancient walls, foundations and quays from a Lycian and Roman-era harbour visible along the shoreline and from small boats; much of the ruin line lies immediately offshore and is best seen from the water.
• Üçağız and Kaleköy: The coastal villages and small harbours of Üçağız (also called Ucagiz) and Kaleköy/Simena, which serve as the main departure points for boat trips that pass the sunken ruins and circle the island.