Kaş and Kekova

Last updated: 12 April 2026

Overview

The Kaş area covers a stretch of the Turkish Lycian coast between the Fethiye area and the Gulf of Antalya, taking in a deeply indented coastline of headlands, rocky coves, and small islands. Kaş and Finike are the main bases for provisioning along this section of the coast. The area is known for its Lycian archaeological remains, clear water, and diving, and draws a mix of charter and cruising traffic through the summer season.

Attractions

Sleeping Giant Trail climbs steeply through a series of switchbacks above Kaş along a section of the Lycian Way to a viewpoint overlooking the bay. The round trip takes around two hours and is best started early to avoid the heat. The Simena Castle sits above the small village of Kaleköy on the north shore of Kekova Roads. The walls enclose a small theatre cut from the rock, with views across the water and surrounding coastline.

A WWII-era C-47 Dakota was deliberately sunk off the lighthouse point and lies at around 20 metres at Lighthouse, Sunken Airplane. It is diveable and on calm mornings visible from the surface.

The Isthmus link path connects the eastern anchorage at Üçağız to the Lycian ruins at Aperlae along a short marked trail taking around 30 minutes on foot.

To the west, Blue Cave Photsaliki is accessible by dinghy in calm conditions. The cave produces the characteristic blue light typical of sea caves with submerged entrances, and entry requires low swell and care at the low cave mouth.

Notes for mariners

The Sunken Village Ruins at Kaleköy are a protected archaeological zone where anchoring and swimming are prohibited.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

Ücagiz 4.6
Calm waters and good holding are noted, with anchoring depths around 6-7 meters. The area is well protected from most wind directions, and visitors can easily reach nearby villages by dinghy. Fresh produce and dining options enhance the overall experience.
Sicak Koyu 4.6
Multiple reviews highlight the strong holding in mud with depths ranging from 4.5 to 10 meters. Visitors mentioned a quiet environment, opportunities for shore excursions, and various dining options nearby. The water clarity varies, influenced by prevailing winds.
Anchoring is viable in several depths with acceptable holding on mud or sand. While the water clarity may be lacking, the bay provides good shelter from strong weather. Visitors can explore Lycian ruins and enjoy local amenities, albeit with some caution regarding wind direction.
This anchorage features good holding conditions in depths around 5 to 7 meters, often with calm winds. Visitors have appreciated the sheltered location and accessibility to local dining options. A walk to Simena castle is also highlighted.
Kalkan 3.9
The anchorage offers good holding in sandy conditions, with several reviews highlighting protection from westerlies. Be aware of potential crowding from visiting boats during the day, which leaves the area quieter at night for evening access to the beach.
Kas 3.4
Anchoring conditions are generally favorable with solid holding grounds. The marina restricts tender access and has security watching. Proximity to Kaş town allows easy walking access to supermarkets and amenities.

Marinas

Helpful staff assist with docking when strong winds arise. The marina supports an active cruising community with amenities like laundry services and social events. Concerns include limited ventilation in the men's bathroom during summer.
Setur Kas Marina features a well-sheltered location with clean facilities and a nearby beach club. Some visitors reported issues with accessing the marina if not paying for a berth. A recent concern about theft incidents near the anchorage was also noted.

Moorings

Bayindir Limani 4.0
Mooring is available at this location, though conditions can be influenced by nearby tour boats. Multiple visitors reported potential issues with wind and buoy performance. The area provides access to interesting dive sites and underwater features.

Harbours

Hasan's Roma 5.0
A larger dock is available for visitors, free to stay if dining at the restaurants. Hassan and Deniz assist with mooring and provide a friendly atmosphere. Reviews commend the food quality and hospitality while highlighting the scenic views of the castle.
Kalkan town 3.3
The harbour in Kalkan offers limited berthing availability, mostly occupied by tourist boats. Facilities include showers and toilets, which incur additional fees. The area is lively with various dining options, though access can be challenging for yachts.

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Chandlers

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Service includes a variety of stainless bolts and fixings. The chandler speaks good English and can often facilitate orders from another store to the marina. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
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Kas - Chandlery 3.0
The chandler has limited stainless steel items and few ropes available. The owner is described as nice. Overall, the selection appears to be lacking in diversity.

Yacht clearance links

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Turkey:

Yacht clearance agents

Customs clearance is handled quickly and efficiently. Multiple Reviews highlight the agent's friendly and helpful nature, with good communication and flexible arrangements described. It is advisable to arrive between 10:00-14:00 for optimal service.
Öztürk Marin 5.0
Efficient check-out services are provided by Ozturk Marin. Faik facilitates all necessary interactions with harbour authorities, translating between visitors and staff. The check-out process can take several hours due to the relocation of port police and customs.
Place details mention: check in steps.
The agents at Finike Yachting Agency are no longer available due to the building's demolition. Visitors are advised to use WhatsApp for contact. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.