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Kekova: Sunken city ruins in turquoise waters
Category

Sightseeing

Price

$$

Est. Duration

6-8h

Message from
Melis Başaran

Kekova Island is a protected island famous for its crystal-clear waters and the remains of a sunken ancient city visible beneath the surface.

The island itself is uninhabited, but it’s part of a larger coastal area that includes Kaleköy (Simena) and Üçağız village. The highlight here is the Sunken City, where you can see submerged walls, staircases, and building ruins from a Lycian settlement destroyed by earthquakes. Swimming is restricted directly above the ruins, but boat tours cruise slowly along the coast so you can observe the remains clearly.

Popular activities include daily boat trips, sea kayaking over the underwater ruins, snorkeling in turquoise bays, and visiting Simena Castle for panoramic views. The surrounding coves are ideal for peaceful swimming breaks.

There are no hotels on Kekova Island itself, but charming boutique pensions and small seaside guesthouses are available in Kaleköy and Üçağız. Staying overnight offers a quiet, authentic Mediterranean experience far from large resort crowds.

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