Kekova Sunken City: Lycian Ruins Beneath the Water

The Kekova Sunken City, off the coast of Antalya's Demre district, is a unique Lycian settlement that was partly submerged as a result of earthquakes. Famous for its ancient walls, staircases and building remains lying beneath the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and stretching along the shore, this area is usually explored by boat tour. With its natural beauty and historic fabric, it is one of the most captivating sea routes in Antalya.

History and what to see

In antiquity, the Kekova region was home to a lively Lycian settlement. Great earthquakes over the centuries caused part of the coastal structures to sink below sea level. Today, as you move along this shore by boat, you can see wall foundations lying underwater, stone staircases descending into the sea and building traces that in places stand close to the water's surface. The clear water reveals these ruins almost like an open-air aquarium.

Right beside the Sunken City, the coastal Kaleköy (ancient Simena) draws attention. The medieval castle on the hilltop and the Lycian sarcophagi scattered around it reveal the layered history of the region. The famous sarcophagus rising out of the sea is one of the most photographed symbols of the Kekova tours. The surrounding bays are ideal for swimming and enjoying the clarity of the water.

For conservation purposes, swimming and diving are restricted in certain areas where the submerged ruins lie; for this reason you mostly view the ruins from the boat. This rule is important for passing on the underwater heritage to future generations.

How to get there

Kekova tours are usually run by boats departing from coastal villages such as Üçağız and Kaleköy, which belong to Demre, or from nearby Kaş. For those coming from central Antalya, the most practical way is to reach the Demre direction by car following the coast road and join a boat tour from there. Those who prefer public transport can take regional buses and minibuses to Demre and from there reach the boat departure points. Since boat tour options and departure times may change by season, we recommend checking current information before you go.

When to go and practical tips

The most ideal period to explore Kekova is late spring, summer and early autumn, when the sea is calm and the weather mild. In summer the waters are clear and inviting for swimming, but the area can be quite crowded; for a quieter experience you might prefer the morning tours.

Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a swimsuit; many tours include a swimming break. Boat tours usually charge a fee and their scope can vary, so it is good to learn what the tour includes in advance. To best enjoy the clarity of the water, try to choose a sunny, windless day.

Why is the Kekova Sunken City underwater?

Some of the ancient Lycian structures in the Kekova region became submerged when the land dropped relative to sea level as a result of great earthquakes in the past. Today the wall foundations and staircases stretching along the shore carry the traces of this once-seaside settlement and can be seen even from the surface thanks to the clear water.

Is it possible to swim at Kekova?

Kekova tours usually include swimming breaks in the surrounding bays, and the clarity of the water is very inviting for a swim. However, swimming and diving are restricted in certain protected areas where the submerged ruins lie. For this reason it is best to consult your tour guide about where you may swim.

Where does the Kekova tour start?

Kekova boat tours mostly start from the villages of Üçağız and Kaleköy, which belong to Demre, or from nearby Kaş. Boats setting off from these departure points offer routes covering the sunken city shore, Kaleköy and the surrounding bays. Departure points and routes may vary by tour provider; it is advisable to check current options before you go.

After exploring Kekova, you can keep planning the other Lycian ruins around Demre, the bays and more Antalya guides with FindAntalya.