Kaş

Nestled along Turkey’s famed Turquoise Coast, Kaş is a charming seaside town where ancient history, vibrant marine life, and relaxed Mediterranean living come together effortlessly. Often included in thoughtfully curated Turkey Tours, Kaş appeals to travelers looking beyond mainstream destinations. With its winding cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses adorned with bougainvillea, boutique hotels, crystal-clear waters, and access to some of the country’s most spectacular scuba diving sites, Kaş stands out as a destination that captivates both adventure seekers and slow-travel enthusiasts.

Whether you’re exploring the ancient Lycian ruins scattered across the region, kayaking above the sunken city of Kekova, diving into underwater canyons and shipwrecks, or simply enjoying a sunset meal at a harbor-side restaurant, Kaş offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and coastal tranquility—making it a natural extension after cultural journeys such as Istanbul Tours.

Why Visit Kaş?

Kaş has maintained its identity as a laid-back, boutique holiday town despite rising popularity. Unlike larger resort areas, it offers a more intimate, bohemian atmosphere where independent travelers, divers, and nature lovers feel right at home. Many travelers discover Kaş while traveling through southwestern routes of a Best of Turkey Tour, and end up wishing they had stayed longer.

A Unique Blend of Nature and History

The region around Kaş is part of ancient Lycia, a civilization known for its rock-cut tombs, sarcophagi, and coastal trading cities. As you wander through town, you’ll spot a 4th-century Lycian sarcophagus just steps away from modern cafes and shops—an everyday reminder of Kaş’s deep historical roots.

Authentic Mediterranean Ambiance

Kaş is characterized by:

• Narrow lanes framed by wooden balconies and vibrant flowers
• Boutique family-run hotels instead of mass tourism resorts
• Cozy restaurants serving fresh seafood and mezes
• A harbor filled with sailboats preparing for daily excursions

Its authenticity is one of the main reasons travelers fall in love with this small but unforgettable coastal settlement.

Top Things to Do in Kaş

Explore the Sunken City of Kekova

One of Kaş’s most famous attractions is the Sunken City of Kekova, an ancient Lycian settlement partially submerged due to earthquakes. You can visit via:

• Boat tours
• Sea kayaking excursions (a favorite for adventure travelers)

Gliding over the ruins—visible beneath the turquoise surface—offers a rare glimpse into antiquity blended with natural beauty.

Discover Ancient Ruins and the Lycian Way

Kaş sits along the iconic Lycian Way, one of the world’s top long-distance hiking trails. From Kaş, hikers can access scenic routes featuring:

• Ancient Lycian tombs
• Olive groves
• Clifftop sea views
• Traditional mountain villages

Within the town itself, the Ancient Theater of Kaş, built during the Hellenistic period, offers breathtaking sunset views over Meis Island.

Dive Into World-Class Underwater Sites

Kaş is considered the diving capital of Turkey, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. The area features:

• Over 20 diving spots
• Crystal-clear water
• Rich marine life
• Underwater canyons
• A WWII airplane wreck
• The famous Duchess of York shipwreck

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Kaş’s underwater world promises unforgettable adventures.

Relax on Beautiful Beaches

While Kaş itself has small pebbled swimming areas, the region is home to some of Turkey’s most stunning beaches.

Kaputaş Beach

With its towering cliffs and intense turquoise water, Kaputaş Beach is one of the most photographed places on the Turquoise Coast. It’s located between Kaş and Kalkan and easily reachable by local buses.

Patara Beach

Famous for its 18-kilometer stretch of golden sand, Patara is one of the longest beaches in Turkey. It’s also the nesting site for caretta caretta sea turtles and sits next to the ancient city of Patara.

Wander the Charming Old Town

The heart of Kaş is its old town district—a lively yet relaxed area ideal for:

• Shopping for handmade jewelry
• Browsing local boutiques
• Sipping Turkish coffee
• Enjoying rooftop dinners with sea views

Its authentic feel makes simply wandering its alleys one of the best experiences in Kaş.

Where to Eat and Drink in Kaş

Kaş’s culinary scene emphasizes fresh, local ingredients influenced by both Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Many restaurants highlight seafood, olive oil dishes, mezes, and grilled specialties.

Harbor Restaurants

Enjoying a meal by the sea is a quintessential Kaş experience. Harbor-side eateries offer excellent seafood—particularly octopus, prawns, and daily fresh fish—paired with crisp local wines.

Rooftop and Old Town Dining

The old town’s rooftop restaurants provide romantic settings with panoramic views of the bay, perfect for sunset dinners. Many feature modern interpretations of Turkish classics, vegetarian options, and freshly baked pastries.

Cafés and Dessert Spots

Kaş is a paradise for café lovers. You’ll find craft coffee shops, homemade ice cream, and bakeries offering Turkish desserts such as baklava, künefe, and tahini-based sweets.

Best Day Trips from Kaş

Meis Island (Kastellorizo)

Just a short ferry ride away, the Greek island of Meis offers colorful waterfront houses, swimming caves, and a peaceful atmosphere. Many travelers visit Meis as a quick cross-border getaway.

Saklıkent Gorge

Located inland, Saklıkent Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in Europe and a perfect place for hiking through icy mountain waters and dramatic rock formations.

Kalkan

A more upscale coastal town nearby, Kalkan offers luxury hotels, beach clubs, and fine dining—ideal for a relaxing afternoon or evening trip.

When to Visit Kaş

The best time to visit Kaş is between May and October, when the weather is warm, sunny, and ideal for swimming or outdoor activities.

• July–August: Peak season with lively nightlife and warm seas
• May–June & September–October: Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds
• Winter: Quiet, peaceful, and ideal for hiking, though many hotels close seasonally

Tips for Visiting Kaş

• Choose a boutique hotel for the full Kaş experience—many offer stunning sea views.
• Rent a car or scooter if you plan to explore surrounding beaches and villages.
• Bring water shoes, as many swimming areas are rocky.
• Book diving or Kekova kayaking tours early during summer.
• Pack light, as the old town’s streets are steep and narrow.

Kaş is a destination that captures the essence of the Mediterranean—mixing natural beauty, ancient heritage, vibrant marine life, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re hiking the Lycian Way, diving among shipwrecks, exploring sunken cities, or savoring sunsets over the harbor, every moment in Kaş feels meaningful and serene.

With its unspoiled charm and endless adventures, Kaş invites travelers to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the magic of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

Book your Kaş tour and create memories that last a lifetime.