Sea Kayaking over the Sunken City of Kekova – Paddle Through History and Beauty

Introduction

Sea kayaking over the Sunken City of Kekova is one of Turkey’s most captivating coastal adventures. Located near Demre and Kaş in southern Antalya Province, Kekova is famous for its crystal-clear waters and submerged ruins from an ancient Lycian settlement. Gliding silently across the bay, paddlers can literally trace the outlines of streets, houses, and stairways that disappeared beneath the sea centuries ago.

A Journey Through Time

The ancient city of Simena (Kekova) was partially submerged following earthquakes during the 2nd century AD. Today, its stone foundations, harbor walls, and steps leading into the water can still be seen just below the surface. Kayaking allows visitors to explore this open-air museum without disturbing the fragile ruins—an intimate way to experience history from a perspective that larger boats can’t offer.

The Kayaking Experience

The tour begins with a short briefing and basic paddling instruction before setting out from Üçağız Village. As you glide over turquoise waters, the ruins of ancient homes, workshops, and cisterns appear beneath you. Along the way, guides share stories about Lycian culture and the region’s maritime past.

Most tours also include stops to:

• Swim and snorkel in quiet coves surrounded by rocky cliffs.

• Visit Kaleköy (Simena Castle): Hike up for breathtaking panoramic views of the islands and ruins below.

• Enjoy a seaside lunch in a small fishing village, featuring fresh Mediterranean dishes.

Why Choose Kayaking in Kekova?

• Offers a non-intrusive, eco-friendly way to explore archaeological sites.

• Provides spectacular photo opportunities of both ruins and coastline.

• Combines adventure, history, and nature in a peaceful setting.

• Suitable for beginners, families, and experienced kayakers alike.

Duration and Prices of Sea Kayaking

• Half-Day Tour (3–4 hours): from €35–€50 per person

• Full-Day Tour (6–7 hours): from €60–€80 per person

• Private Guided Tour: from €120+ per person (includes transfers and lunch)

All tours generally include kayak equipment, life vests, guides, and water.

Best Time to Go Sea Kayaking

The ideal months are May to October, when sea conditions are calm and visibility is excellent. Early morning tours are especially serene, with the sun reflecting off the ruins beneath the water.

Tips for Visitors

• Wear quick-dry clothing and sunscreen; bring a hat and waterproof case for your phone.

• Avoid touching or walking on submerged ruins—preservation is essential.

• Combine your tour with a visit to Demre’s St. Nicholas Church or the Myra rock tombs for a full day of culture and exploration.

Suggested Kekova Kayak Route & Map

Exploring Kekova by kayak follows a tranquil route that weaves through ancient ruins, hidden coves, and picturesque villages. Most tours start in Üçağız Village, a small harbor on the mainland, and follow a circular route that showcases the best of the Sunken City of Kekova and its surroundings.

🧭 Recommended Route: Üçağız → Sunken City → Simena (Kaleköy) → Tersane Bay → Gökkaya Bay → Üçağız

1. Üçağız Village – Launch Point

The adventure begins in Üçağız, a quiet coastal village that serves as the main departure point for kayaking tours. Here you’ll receive a safety briefing and paddling gear before gliding into calm, crystal waters surrounded by rocky hills dotted with olive trees.

2. Sunken City of Kekova

Just offshore lies the Sunken City, the partially submerged ruins of ancient Simena. As you paddle along the shoreline, you’ll spot stone staircases descending into the sea, collapsed walls, and harbor structures visible beneath the surface. This section of the route is paddled slowly, allowing you to fully absorb the sight of a city lost to time.

3. Kaleköy (Simena Castle)

Across the bay, the village of Kaleköy—accessible only by boat or foot—invites a short stop. Climb the path up to Simena Castle, a Lycian fortress offering one of the most breathtaking panoramas in Turkey: turquoise sea, scattered islands, and the outlines of the Sunken City below. You can also enjoy homemade ice cream sold by local villagers before paddling onward.

4. Tersane Bay (Shipyard Bay)

This tranquil inlet once served as a Lycian shipyard, and its name—Tersane, meaning “dockyard” in Turkish—reflects that heritage. Here you can take a refreshing swim or snorkel, spotting fragments of ancient walls beneath the clear waters.

5. Gökkaya Bay

Further east lies Gökkaya Bay, known for its deep blue waters and hidden caves. Many full-day tours stop here for lunch at a seaside restaurant or a picnic on shore. The calm water makes it perfect for relaxing before heading back.

6. Return to Üçağız

After a day of discovery and peaceful paddling, you’ll return to Üçağız by mid-afternoon, passing quiet fishing boats and the gentle outline of the Kekova Islands as the sunlight softens over the bay.

🗺️ Map Overview

Google Maps Coordinates:

• Üçağız Village (Starting Point): 36.1837° N, 29.8580° E

• Sunken City of Kekova: 36.1844° N, 29.8692° E

• Kaleköy (Simena): 36.1833° N, 29.8743° E

• Tersane Bay: 36.1829° N, 29.8787° E

• Gökkaya Bay: 36.1820° N, 29.8962° E

🧡 Insider Tip

Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro mount—visibility in Kekova’s waters often exceeds 20 meters, making it ideal for underwater photography of the submerged ruins.

Conclusion

Sea kayaking over the Sunken City of Kekova is a rare adventure where history and nature flow together. Paddling through the calm, turquoise waters above a lost civilization offers not just a glimpse into the ancient Lycian world, but also a profound sense of peace and wonder. It’s an experience that captures Turkey’s timeless beauty—quiet, historical, and deeply moving.