Dive Site: Sunken City of Kekova

About Sunken City of Kekova

The Sunken City of Kekova, also known as Dolchiste, is an extraordinary underwater archaeological site located off Kekova Island near Demre in Turkey's Antalya province. This ancient Lycian settlement was partially submerged during a catastrophic earthquake in the 2nd century AD, leaving its ruins visible just beneath the exceptionally clear waters. The site offers a rare glimpse into an ancient civilization, with submerged foundations, staircases, and remnants of buildings that once lined the shore. While direct swimming and diving over the ruins are prohibited to protect this fragile heritage, visitors can explore the site from glass-bottom boats or kayaks. This allows for an intimate view of the submerged city without disturbance. The area is part of a Specially Protected Environmental Area, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Beyond the Sunken City itself, the region boasts stunning natural beauty with serene, crystal-clear waters, lush green hillsides, and countless coves. Nearby Kaleköy (ancient Simena) offers a charming village atmosphere and a hilltop Byzantine castle with panoramic views. The combination of historical intrigue and picturesque Mediterranean scenery makes Kekova a unique and captivating destination. Most tours to Kekova are conducted via boat from Üçağız, Kaş, or Demre, often including stops in nearby bays for swimming and snorkeling. This provides a balanced experience of historical exploration and leisurely enjoyment of the beautiful coastline. The calm waters and excellent visibility often allow for clear viewing of the submerged structures from the surface.

Dive site facts: Sunken City of Kekova

Depth

1–6 m (surface viewing)

Typical dive

Not a dive site, surface viewing only

Current

Very mild

Visibility

Excellent (up to 20+ m)

Water temperature

17–25°C

Entry

Boat / Kayak

Level

All levels (surface viewing)

Dive type

Historical, surface exploration

Night dive

Not applicable

Region / port

Antalya, Turkey

Coordinates

36.1833, 29.8667

Conditions & Currents

The waters around Kekova are generally calm and protected, especially within the bays and near the Sunken City itself. This provides excellent conditions for boat tours and kayaking, allowing for clear viewing of the submerged ruins. Visibility is typically strong, often allowing the ancient structures to be seen from the surface without effort. There are no significant currents directly over the protected site, which contributes to its accessibility and the ease of viewing. Entry and exit points for boat tours are usually in sheltered coves, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. However, outside the protected areas and in open waters, conditions can vary, particularly with stronger winds.

Marine life & sighting chances

Colourful fish

common

Octopus

occasional

Sea turtle

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Kekova is not a dive site in the traditional sense, as scuba diving and swimming are strictly prohibited directly over the protected ruins of the Sunken City. Instead, visitors experience the site from the surface. The typical profile involves a boat or kayak tour that glides slowly parallel to Kekova Island's northern shore. From this vantage point, you can observe the submerged foundations, walls, and ancient staircases of the Lycian settlement through the clear water. Guides often point out key features, allowing you to trace the layout of ancient homes and public buildings. Some tours include stops in nearby, unrestricted bays like Tersane Bay or Akvaryum Bay for swimming and snorkeling, where you can explore the marine environment, including a Byzantine church ruin in Tersane Bay, away from the core archaeological zone.

Underwater photography

Photographing the Sunken City of Kekova requires adapting to surface conditions rather than underwater setups. For capturing the submerged ruins from a boat or kayak, a polarized filter on your camera lens is highly recommended to reduce glare from the water's surface, enhancing visibility of the structures below. A wide-angle lens can be effective for capturing the expansive scenery, including the ruins, the island, and the clear turquoise waters. For close-up details visible through the water, a telephoto lens might be useful. Consider shooting during the early morning for the calmest water and optimal light penetration, minimizing shadows and maximizing clarity. Drones can offer a unique aerial perspective of the partially submerged city and the surrounding picturesque coastline, but be mindful of local regulations and permissions in this protected area.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Afkule Monastery Reef

  Afkule Monastery Reef, prominently known as Afkule Wall, stands as a distinguished dive destination along Turkey's southwestern coast…

• Lighthouse Reef (Kaş)

  Lighthouse Reef is a prominent dive site near Kaş, Turkey, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and diverse underwater landscape.

• SAS Wreck (Kaş)

  The SAS Wreck, located in the crystal-clear waters off Kaş, Turkey, is a highly significant dive site, renowned for its historical artifact…

• Canyon Dive (Kaş)

  Kaş Canyon in Antalya, Turkey, offers a unique double-feature dive experience that combines a dramatic canyon with a historical shipwreck.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Kekova is primarily by boat from several nearby towns. The most common departure points are Üçağız village, Demre's harbor, or the town of Kaş. While Kaş offers daily boat tours, the journey is longer. Demre and Üçağız are closer to the site. Trips typically range from half-day to full-day excursions, often including viewing the Sunken City, swimming stops in adjacent bays, and a visit to Simena Castle (Kaleköy). There are no direct entry fees for the protected area itself, but access is exclusively via paid boat or kayak tours. For those traveling by air, the nearest major airport is Antalya Airport (AYT), from which you can arrange transfers to Demre, Kaş, or Üçağız. Kekova is frequently combined with visits to Myra Ancient City and St. Nicholas Church as part of a broader itinerary along the Lycian Coast.

Safety & environment

Kekova is a protected environmental area, and safety guidelines primarily revolve around respectful interaction with the historical site and general boating safety. Swimming and diving are strictly prohibited directly over the Sunken City ruins to prevent damage and looting; visitors must observe from boats or kayaks. When swimming in designated bays, be aware of boat traffic and always use appropriate personal flotation devices if needed. The nearest recompression chamber would be in a larger city like Antalya. It is always advisable to have comprehensive travel and dive insurance (even for surface activities, if you're part of a dive group) that covers emergency evacuation and medical treatment. Ensure you stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and use sun protection. Always follow the instructions of your boat captain or tour guide, as they are familiar with local conditions and regulations.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Sunken City of Kekova FAQ

Liveaboards diving Sunken City of Kekova

These liveaboards may visit Sunken City of Kekova on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$157/day