Kalekoy Kekova is a hidden gem off the coast of Demre, Antalya, known for its historical and natural beauty. Built upon the ancient city of Simena, this small village is unique as it cannot be reached directly by land; it’s only accessible by boat. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Kalekoy Kekova offers visitors boat tours through a sunken ancient city, breathtaking views from its historic castle, delicious homemade ice cream, and picture-perfect scenery for photography lovers. This guide provides everything you need to know—from how to get there and the history of Kalekoy, to castle hikes, sunken ruins, local food, and travel tips. Start by watching our curated videos capturing the magical atmosphere of Kalekoy Kekova—then dive into the full travel guide below.

Where is Kalekoy Kekova and How to Get There?

Kalekoy (ancient Simena) is located in the Kekova region of Antalya province, between Kas and Demre. Positioned on a small peninsula directly across from Kekova Island, it has no road access—reaching the village is only possible by sea. This makes Kalekoy one of the rare road-free destinations in Turkey. The village consists of around 60–70 households and is entirely car-free. You can only explore the village by walking along its narrow stone paths and stair-filled alleys; motor vehicles are not allowed.

There are several ways to reach Kalekoy Kekova:

By Boat Tour from Kas or Demre

The most popular way is to join a daily Kekova boat tour departing from Kas town center or Demre’s Cayagzi Harbor. These tours usually pass around Kekova Island and include a midday stop at Kalekoy. The boats dock at the small Kalekoy pier, giving guests about an hour to explore the castle and the village. You return to Kas or your departure point with the same boat. You can also choose to stay overnight in Kalekoy and arrange a return transfer with another boat on a later day.

Via Ucagiz Village

You can drive or take a taxi from Kas to Ucagiz village in about 35–40 minutes. Ucagiz is a natural harbor directly across from Kalekoy, and you can park your car there. There are no scheduled ferries or public transport to Kalekoy from Ucagiz, but local boat cooperatives and fishermen offer private transfers. The Ucagiz Cooperative can take you to Kalekoy by boat in 10–15 minutes and may also offer short (1.5-hour) private boat tours or longer charters. This option lets you see Kalekoy and nearby sunken ruins as well.

By Road and Hiking

Technically, it’s possible to reach a nearby point by road and hike down to Kalekoy. A rough 3-km dirt track from Ucagiz leads near the base of Simena Castle. If accessible, you can leave your car in a small parking area and walk 5–10 minutes along an ancient footpath to enter the village. This path is part of the Lycian Way and passes olive trees and rock tombs. However, the route is not well-marked and lies within a protected zone, so most visitors prefer reaching Kalekoy by sea.

By Public Transportation

There are limited bus routes from Antalya to Demre or Ucagiz. In summer, a minibus reportedly departs from Demre bus terminal to Ucagiz around 17:30. Still, because public transport is scarce, most travelers use private transfers or join tours from Antalya or Kas. The nearest airport is in Antalya (about 170 km away). From there, you can take a bus to Kas or Demre and then arrange a boat transfer.

Travel Tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes—since the village has no cars, you’ll be climbing narrow, uneven stone paths. During summer, it can get very hot by midday, so pack sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and water. Most boat tours include lunch, but snacks and extra water are still good to have. Note: there are no banks or ATMs in Kalekoy, so be sure to carry enough cash for boat tours and shopping.

History of Kalekoy Kekova

The ancient name of Kalekoy is Simena, and it was one of the small yet strategically important coastal cities of the Lycian Civilization. The history of Simena dates back to the 4th century BC. During this time, the city was a member of the Lycian League and represented by the more prominent city of Aperlai. Although the name “Simena” was first mentioned by Roman author Pliny the Elder in the 1st century AD, inscriptions in the Lycian language and coins found in Aperlai confirm that the city was established in the early 4th century BC. After coming under the rule of the Roman Empire, Simena retained partial autonomy for a time.

Today, the ruins of ancient Simena are intertwined with the modern village of Kalekoy Kekova. As you walk through the village, you’ll come across Lycian-style sarcophagi, rock-cut tombs, and stone walls right next to houses. Some modern homes have even been built atop ancient structures—making it feel like you’re walking through an open-air museum. Simena has endured multiple earthquakes over the centuries. Major quakes in antiquity caused the harbor area to submerge, and part of the coastline collapsed, forming what is now Kekova Island. The underwater ruins known as the Sunken City are the result of these natural disasters.

During the Middle Ages, Simena and its castle retained strategic importance. The area was used as an outpost by the Knights of St. John (Hospitallers) during the Crusades. The name “Kalekoy” literally means “Castle Village,” derived from the fortress overlooking the town. In the 15th century, the village came under Ottoman rule and continued as a small coastal settlement, preserving much of its historical character to this day. In 1990, Kalekoy and the surrounding region were declared a Special Environmental Protection Area, ensuring conservation of both natural and archaeological heritage. Swimming or diving around the ruins is prohibited, and tourism in the area is strictly controlled.

One of the most iconic elements of Kalekoy’s historical legacy is the half-submerged Lycian sarcophagus on the shoreline. Dating back to the 5th century AD, this rock-cut tomb is a textbook example of Lycian funerary architecture. Due to shifting sea levels or land subsidence, it now stands partially underwater and has become a symbol of Kalekoy Kekova. Featured on countless tourism brochures and postcards, the tomb has stood for over 2,500 years, with its base still extending another 1.5 meters below the surface. Restored and stabilized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, this tomb is a highlight for visitors, who often wade or swim up to it for a closer look—or stop by on canoe tours for a memorable photo. It’s one of the clearest examples of how Kalekoy brings history and nature together into a living, breathing open-air museum.

Simena Castle and Its View

Atop the village stands Simena Castle, from which Kalekoy gets its name. Built during the medieval period on the ruins of the ancient acropolis, this modest fortress played a strategic defense role for centuries. Its walls still stand remarkably intact, with visible arrow slits and lookout points offering a glimpse into the past. The castle was likely constructed as an outpost linked to the Knights of St. John on the island of Rhodes, giving it distinct Crusader characteristics.

You can reach the castle via a short but steep trail from the village. The 500-meter stone stairway leading up from the shore can be challenging in the heat, but the view from the top is worth every step. It takes about 10 minutes to reach the summit, passing through locals’ gardens and shaded spots under olive trees. You might also encounter village women selling handmade lace, crochet, and other souvenirs along the way—often offering historical anecdotes in exchange for a purchase, reflecting Kalekoy’s warm hospitality.

From the top of Simena Castle, you’ll witness a breathtaking panorama: the village and its harbor below, Kekova Island directly opposite, and the endless blues of the Mediterranean stretching to the horizon. It’s a view that etches itself into every traveler’s memory.

Inside the castle, the first thing that stands out is a miniature ancient theater carved into the rock. With only seven rows of seats and a capacity of around 300, it is said to be the smallest Roman amphitheater in the world. Its presence confirms that Simena was a modest settlement even in ancient times. The theater, oriented toward the sea, evokes powerful images of long-forgotten performances and gatherings.

As you explore the castle grounds, you’ll come across structures from different periods. In one corner of the walled courtyard lie the foundations of a building that began as a Byzantine temple, later converted into a church, and eventually a small mosque. You’ll also see remains of cisterns and storage areas used to collect rainwater and supplies. Looking northeast from the fortress, you’ll spot an expansive necropolis scattered along the hillside, featuring multiple Lycian sarcophagi and rock tombs. One tomb, inscribed in Lycian script, identifies the occupant as “Mentor, son of Idargus”—a remarkable detail for history enthusiasts. Simena Castle is truly a mosaic of civilizations, bridging Lycian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras.

But the true highlight of Simena Castle is its unrivaled view. From its battlements, you’ll see turquoise waters, the green silhouette of Kekova Island, and scattered islets like gems floating in the sea. Below, Kalekoy’s red-roofed houses and small fishing boats complete a picture-postcard scene. Ancient tombs, goats grazing on the slopes, and centuries-old olive trees add layers of timelessness. Time seems to stand still here, and the landscape appears untouched by modern life. At sunset, the golden light reflecting on the sea and ruins creates an unforgettable backdrop for photos.

Visitor Tips: Simena Castle is a registered archaeological site managed by the Ministry of Culture. As of 2025, the entrance fee is around 90 TL and Museum Passes are accepted. Operating hours during summer are typically 08:00–20:00 (with final exit before sunset). Bring water for the hike and avoid climbing during midday heat. The best views are in the early morning or late afternoon. There are no guardrails on the highest parts of the castle, so be cautious—especially with children. Finally, do not climb on or mark historical structures. The area is a first-degree archaeological preservation zone and must be treated with utmost respect.

Sunken City & Boat Tour Experience

One of the most captivating experiences that makes Kalekoy Kekova truly special is exploring the Sunken City, a collection of ancient ruins submerged beneath the sea. Located along the northern coast of Kekova Island—directly across from the ancient city of Simena—this site was once a Lycian settlement that sank due to massive earthquakes. Known in ancient texts as Dolichiste, the city was largely destroyed by a major earthquake in the 2nd century AD. Although the Byzantines attempted to resettle the area, Arab raids eventually led to its full abandonment. Today, as you cruise along the coastline of Kekova Island, you can see stairs, building foundations, and wall fragments from the ancient city just below the water’s surface—visible with the naked eye.

A Kekova boat tour is the best way to witness the Sunken City. Boats pass slowly along the island’s northern shore while guides point out the key landmarks: submerged staircases, carved chambers, house foundations that continue underwater, and Lycian sarcophagi lined along the shoreline. Many boats are equipped with glass panels or glass-bottom sections so you can get a clearer view of the underwater remains. Captains slow down the engine while passing the ruins—giving guests around 10 minutes to observe. During this time, guides share information about Lycian daily life, the causes of the city’s submersion, and what the visible remnants once were. For example, you may spot a staircase halfway underwater that used to mark the entrance to a house, or seawalls that once formed part of a harbor.

Since the Sunken City is a first-degree archaeological site, swimming, diving, or stepping onto the ruins is strictly prohibited. Boats do not drop anchor here, and no passenger is allowed to disembark. This rule is rigorously enforced to preserve the historical heritage. After viewing the ruins, boat tours usually continue to Tersane Bay on the western side of Kekova Island, where swimming is permitted. Tersane (meaning “shipyard”) Bay is home to some of the densest ancient remains on the island, including a Byzantine church apse right on the shore. Here, you can swim in clear waters and, with a snorkel, even spot submerged stone blocks and amphorae.

Other popular stops on Kekova boat tours include Gokkaya Bay and Aquarium Bay, where guests can swim in stunning turquoise waters. Some tours also include stops at the ruins of Theimussa (Ucagiz) or natural formations like Pirate’s Cave. One of the best parts of the day is the onboard lunch, which typically includes fresh fish or chicken, salad, and pasta—a simple yet satisfying Mediterranean meal.

During the Kalekoy stop, boats dock at the village pier and offer guests at least an hour of free time. This is your chance to hike up to the castle, explore the village streets, enjoy homemade ice cream, or simply relax by the sea at a waterfront café. Since the pier is small, especially in peak season, boats often dock at different restaurant jetties. On busy summer days, around 20 boats from Kas and 30 boats from Ucagiz arrive for daily tours—creating a temporary crowd around noon. Still, captains follow an orderly system to manage the flow of passengers smoothly.

Boat Tour Tips: When preparing for a Kekova boat tour, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, swimsuit, towel, and spare clothes. You’ll likely spend extended periods under the sun, so protection is key. A snorkel and swim goggles make the swim stops even more enjoyable. Bring a camera or waterproof phone case to capture the Sunken City—while it may be hard to photograph through glass-bottom panels, you can still get great shots from the boat’s edge.

Be mindful of your impact:
Please do not litter, damage any ruins, or disturb marine life. Kalekoy Kekova is both a cultural and natural treasure that must be preserved for future generations.

Kalekoy Ice Cream & Local Food Recommendations

Aside from its rich history, Kalekoy is also famous for its homemade ice cream. It’s surprising how a tiny village gained nationwide fame for its all-natural, handcrafted treats. The story began in the late 1980s when the family running Ankh Pension started making ice cream from goat’s milk and fresh fruits. Over time, their signature flavors—peach, banana, and hazelnut—gained a loyal following.

These ice creams contain no artificial flavoring—just real fruit from local gardens. Eating one feels like biting into frozen fresh fruit. In the early 2000s, Kalekoy’s ice cream caught the attention of travel writers and international guidebooks, helping spread its reputation beyond Turkey. In recent years, the “I Am Here Cafe” became a popular spot dedicated solely to ice cream. Though several other cafes now serve similar recipes, “I Am Here” remains the most famous. Many visitors recommend trying the mint-lime flavor—a refreshing local favorite. Prices are quite affordable too, with one scoop around 10 TL as of 2025.

As for meals, Kalekoy’s dining scene revolves around fresh seafood and homemade dishes. Along the shore, you’ll find cozy cafés and restaurants, most of them family-run and built on wooden decks over the water. The menus typically feature daily catch (grilled or fried fish), calamari, octopus, and Mediterranean mezes. Even though Kalekoy isn’t a fishing village per se, the seafood comes in fresh from nearby areas. Grilled sea bass or sea bream with a side of salad makes for a light yet satisfying lunch. For non-seafood eaters, there are options like grilled chicken, meatballs, or olive oil-based veggie dishes.

Notable venues include Likya Restaurant, a long-established local favorite run by the same family for years, and the restaurant at Kale Pension, open to both overnight guests and day visitors. As Kalekoy has become more popular, the number of eateries has grown from just a few to over 8–10, each offering similar menus but with unique views and vibes. Don’t be surprised if the person serving your food is the same one who helped your boat dock—it’s that kind of village charm.

If you’re visiting around lunchtime and in a hurry, grab a quick bite at the central square—like a traditional Turkish gözleme (savory flatbread with cheese, herbs, or potatoes) or freshly squeezed fruit juice. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and perfect for a quick stop. You can also take a break from the heat with a classic Turkish coffee at the village café.

Note: Most restaurants and cafés operate at full capacity during summer but may close or offer limited service off-season. If you’re visiting in winter or spring, check in advance to see what’s open. Some venues run on generators, so it’s a good idea to plan early dinners, as things wind down after the boats leave. The best time to enjoy Kalekoy’s food is around lunch or just before sunset.

Photo Spots & Travel Tips for Kalekoy Kekova

Kalekoy Kekova is a dream destination for photography lovers. With its blend of ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes, nearly every frame you capture feels like a postcard. Here are the most iconic photo spots and tips to help you make the most of your visit:

The Lycian Tomb in the Sea

The most famous photo spot in Kalekoy is the half-submerged Lycian sarcophagus rising from the sea. Visitors often wade into the shallow waters to get up close for that perfect shot. Depending on the time of day, the lighting changes dramatically—early morning or late afternoon offer the softest glow. Frame the tomb with the village or castle in the background for a wide-angle masterpiece. You can also capture dynamic shots while swimming or kayaking around it. Just note: this tomb is one of Turkey’s most iconic visuals, so visiting early is the best way to avoid crowds.

Panoramic Views from Simena Castle

The top of Simena Castle offers the most stunning panoramic photos. Capture both Kekova Island and Kalekoy harbor in a single wide shot. You can also focus on details—like the castle walls or Turkish flag—with turquoise bays in the background. Sitting on the steps of the ancient theater or gazing over the battlements makes for beautiful, human-centered compositions. During sunset, the orange and blue tones create magical silhouettes and dreamy lighting.

Village Streets & Local Life

Kalekoy’s narrow cobbled alleys, whitewashed homes, and bougainvillea-covered façades are photogenic at every turn. Climb the old stone stairways, photograph local women selling handmade crafts, or snap candid moments with cats lounging beneath olive trees. Holding an ice cream cone in the town square with the castle and tomb behind you? That’s a memory worth capturing.

Sea & Boat Photography

Keep your camera ready during the boat ride too. Photographing the Sunken City through the glass-bottom panels can be tricky, but surface reflections of the ruins still make for fascinating shots. Try capturing Kalekoy from the water, with the boat’s Turkish flag in the foreground and the village in the distance. Underwater cameras are great for swimming stops—perfect for snapping your friends or the marine life.

Travel Tips

Accommodation: Although most people visit on day trips, Kalekoy has a few small family-run pensions (3–4 total). These are simple yet clean and offer a rare chance to enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere after the tour boats leave. The hosts usually provide boat transfer from Ucagiz and back. Spend the night under the stars, dine by the sea, and wake up early to enjoy the castle in complete solitude.

Best Time to Visit: The best seasons are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. In peak summer (July–August), temperatures can be intense and boat tours packed. If you’re visiting in summer, try to book a weekday tour and aim for early hours to avoid the rush.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable clothing. A hat and sunglasses are essential. If you plan to swim, bring a swimsuit, towel, and water shoes (useful for rocky shores). Hiking up to the castle and walking through the village is easier with sneakers or closed-toe shoes. Photographers—don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards; you’ll want to take more shots than you think.

Things to Keep in Mind: Kalekoy is a first-degree archaeological and natural protection zone. Building regulations are strict, and preserving the environment is crucial. Please carry your trash, avoid damaging historical sites, and never collect artifacts. Activities like writing on stones or removing fragments are illegal. Locals are friendly and tourism-aware—just ask before taking close-up photos of people, especially the elderly.

Local Shopping: There aren’t big shops in Kalekoy, but you can pick up small souvenirs like handmade necklaces, wooden crafts, shell ornaments, or Kekova-branded T-shirts from local stands. You might also find local thyme, sage, jams, honey, or olive oil—some sold in Kalekoy, others in nearby Ucagiz village.

Final Thoughts

Kalekoy Kekova is one of Turkey’s best-kept secrets. Even on a short day trip, you’ll experience a rich blend of history, nature, and tranquility. From the mystery of the sunken city to the charm of the castle and the flavor of local ice cream, every corner of this village offers something unforgettable. If you’re planning to explore the Antalya coastline, make sure Kalekoy Kekova is on your itinerary.