I didn’t expect to fall so hard for Kas, but this little Mediterranean town knocked me sideways. Imagine waking up to views of Greek islands floating on the horizon while the scent of fresh bread and Turkish coffee drifts up from the cobblestone streets below. My first morning, I watched local fishing boats paint trails across that impossibly blue water while cats lounged in the sun, completely owning the ancient Lycian tombs like they were their personal thrones.
After discovering the best things to do in Kas, I totally get why travelers keep this place on the down low. From scuba diving through sunken ancient ruins at Kekova to feasting on fresh catch at the harbor restaurants while watching the sunset paint the mountains pink, this corner of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is something else. And unlike Bodrum or Antalya, it still feels real.
Top Must-See Places in Kas
Visiting Kas? Spend the day exploring Kekova, visit the ancient Antiphellos Theatre, or hike to the stunning Butterfly Valley. Discover the historical Myra Rock Tombs or relax at the beautiful Kaputas Beach. Whether you’re into history, adventure, or natural beauty, Kaş has plenty to offer.
1. Kekova
Exploring Kekova by boat feels like discovering a secret world just beneath the surface. This partially sunken ancient city lies a quick ride from Üçağız Village, and the views from the water alone make the trip worth it. You’ll glide over stone staircases, crumbled walls, and foundations that once belonged to Lycian and Byzantine civilizations—all now resting below the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling or taking a glass-bottom boat lets you get up close without disturbing a thing.
On my visit, I joined a small boat tour run by Mehmet Reis Tours, and the guide shared stories about pirates, earthquakes, and ancient shipwrecks. We even had a swim stop near Tersane Bay, where sea turtles floated past us. Whether you dive in or stay dry on deck, Kekova’s mix of history and scenery hits differently. It’s not just a boat ride—it’s a trip through time in full color.
- Find more sunken ruins nearby: 10 Must-See Hidden Gems in Bodrum You Can’t Miss
2. Antiphellos Theatre
Tucked into the hillside with a front-row view of the sea, the Ancient Antiphellos Theatre is surprisingly easy to miss. There’s no entry fee or big signs—just stone steps that suddenly open into a Roman-era amphitheater. It’s small compared to others in Turkey, but the setting? Unreal. From the top row, you can see the Greek island of Meis across the water.
I ended up here one evening just before sunset, and it felt like I had the place to myself. Locals were quietly sitting on the steps, sipping tea or reading. It’s not a guided experience or full of plaques—it’s just there, timeless and quiet. Pack a drink, climb to the top, and stay for golden hour. It’s one of those peaceful spots that sneak up on you and make you forget you’re in a tourist town.
3. Butterfly Valley
Butterfly Valley isn’t technically in Kaş, but it’s one of the best day trips you can take while staying there. Boats leave from Kaş Harbor and glide along the coast to this remote cove near Fethiye. The valley’s flanked by dramatic cliffs, and when you pull in, the water turns electric blue. It’s only accessible by boat or an intense cliffside hike.
I grabbed a spot on the daily boat tour with Boat Trip Kas, and the moment we arrived, I knew this was somewhere special. We hiked a bit into the valley and saw butterflies fluttering around wildflowers—no exaggeration. There’s also a little café and a rustic camping area if you want to stay longer. Between the snorkeling, swimming, and that jungle-meets-beach feel, Butterfly Valley is pure escape. Go early if you want it quieter.
4. Myra Rock Tombs
A short drive from Kaş brings you to Demre, where the Myra Rock Tombs are carved straight into the cliffs like a real-life fantasy set. These Lycian tombs date back to the 4th century BC and sit above the ruins of a Roman-era theater. The detail in the carvings is wild, especially considering they’ve been exposed to the elements for centuries.
I visited on a hot afternoon and was surprised how quiet the site was. There were maybe five other people around. It made the place feel even more surreal, like I had stumbled into some forgotten world. The tombs are high above the path, so bring a zoom lens or binoculars if you want to see the reliefs clearly. Pair this stop with St. Nicholas Church, just a few minutes away, for a full-on history fix.
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5. Kaputas Beach
If you’re after that Turkish Riviera postcard moment, Kaputaş Beach is it. Wedged between two cliffs along the coastal road to Kalkan, this tiny cove glows with turquoise water and golden sand. You’ll need to walk down a long staircase to reach it, which adds to the drama—and the view from the top is worth pausing for.
I went midweek around 10 a.m. and grabbed a sunbed before the crowds showed up. The waves were stronger than I expected, which made swimming a bit more fun than relaxing. There’s a snack stand and showers, but don’t expect a full beach club vibe—it’s raw in the best way. Whether you just want a swim or plan to sunbathe all afternoon, Kaputaş delivers. Parking’s tricky, so consider taking a dolmuş (shared minibus) from Kaş instead.
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6. Smiling Bar
When the sun sets over Kaş, the town gets its second wind—and Smiling Bar is where the night often begins. Located just off Atatürk Boulevard, this open-air bar draws a friendly mix of locals and travelers with its nightly live music and no-frills charm. Whether it’s acoustic rock, Turkish covers, or jazz, the vibe is relaxed but never dull.
I ended up here solo and left with new friends from three different countries. The bartenders were cracking jokes, the crowd actually danced, and the drinks didn’t break the bank—my gin and tonic cost under 150 TL. You won’t find a dress code or velvet ropes here, just a laid-back space where good music and cold beer go hand in hand. It’s not the flashiest bar in town, but if you’re after real energy and a good time, this one’s a solid pick.
7. Old Town Kas
Old Town Kaş feels like a living postcard. Whitewashed buildings, bursts of bougainvillea, and cats napping on windowsills set the mood. The cobblestone streets wind through artisan shops, tucked-away cafes, and family-run bakeries. It’s easy to lose track of time here—and honestly, that’s the point.
One afternoon, I stumbled into L’artisan, a small jewelry shop where I ended up chatting with the owner about ancient coins and local legends. Around the corner, a tiny bookstore sold both Turkish poetry and beach reads. For food, grab a simit from Simitçi Dünyası or settle into Oburus Momus for a full veggie brunch. Everything is walkable, photogenic, and super chill. Whether you’re browsing handmade ceramics or just soaking up the sea breeze, Old Town makes you want to slow down and stay awhile. It’s one of the few places where doing “nothing” feels like the best plan.
8. Bi Lokma
Tucked near Republic Square, Bi Lokma is the kind of unpretentious restaurant that ends up being your favorite meal of the trip. This family-owned spot serves traditional Turkish home cooking—no fusion, no gimmicks, just time-tested recipes done right. The menu changes slightly depending on what’s fresh, but expect dishes like stuffed vine leaves, eggplant stew, and lentil soup.
I stopped in for lunch and ordered the lamb shank, which came with buttery rice and roasted vegetables. It was so tender I barely needed a knife. The service is warm but casual, and you’ll often see the owners chatting with guests like old friends. Seating is mostly outdoors under a shaded terrace, and the vibe is calm even during busy hours. While there’s no alcohol, their homemade lemonade is genuinely refreshing. If you want to eat like a local, Bi Lokma delivers without trying too hard.
9. Saklikent Gorge
If you’re looking for a day trip with some edge, head to Saklıkent Gorge, about 1.5 hours from Kaş. It’s one of the deepest canyons in Turkey, carved by icy river water and surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. You can walk along a metal platform bolted into the rock or, if you’re up for it, wade directly through the water—it’s freezing and slippery but totally worth it.
I joined a Jeep safari tour through Kaş Adventures, and the ride there was almost as fun as the gorge itself. We passed olive groves, splashed through muddy trails, and stopped for gözleme along the way. Once inside the gorge, I ended up thigh-deep in water, laughing and slipping with a group of strangers who quickly became trail buddies. Wear water shoes, bring a dry bag, and expect to get soaked. It’s messy, ridiculous fun in one of nature’s most dramatic backdrops.
10. Hidayet Bay
Tucked away from the main harbor, Hidayet Bay is the spot locals go when they want to avoid the crowds. The water here is crazy clear—think snorkeling-pool clarity—with gentle waves perfect for floating or watching fish dart between rocks. It’s about a 10-minute drive from town, and worth the detour if you’re craving a peaceful swim.
I spent a slow afternoon at Blanca Beach Club, which manages part of the bay and offers sunbeds, showers, and a decent café menu. Entry costs a small fee, but you’ll get cleaner facilities and fewer crowds. I snorkeled right off the platform and spotted a sea turtle almost immediately. The whole vibe is chill—no loud music or beach parties, just sun, sea, and the occasional splash from cliff jumpers. Hidayet Bay isn’t flashy, but it’s easily one of Kaş’s most relaxing swim spots.
- Explore more local spots: 10 Hidden Bays and Gems Around Bodrum
11. Paragliding Over Kas
If floating above turquoise water and white rooftops sounds like your thing, paragliding over Kaş delivers in every way. Take-off happens from the hills above town, and within minutes, you’re gliding silently over the coast with unreal views of the harbor and Meis Island across the water. It’s peaceful, thrilling, and a little surreal all at once.
I booked with Sky Sports Paragliding, and they made everything super easy—even for a nervous first-timer like me. After a short ride up and a quick safety talk, we were airborne. My instructor handled all the tricky parts while I just gawked at the scenery and tried to keep my GoPro steady. The flight lasted about 20 minutes, and the landing was smoother than expected. If you’re on the fence about doing it—just go. It’s not as scary as it looks, and it’s one of the best views of Kaş you’ll ever get.
12. Underwater Sculpture Park
For something completely unexpected, check out Kaş’s Underwater Sculpture Park, just a short boat ride from Kaş Marina. This submerged art installation features dozens of human-sized sculptures scattered across the sea floor—each one slowly becoming part of the reef. It’s equal parts eerie and fascinating, and you don’t need to be an expert diver to see it.
I joined a beginner dive trip with Nautilus Diving, and they took us straight to the site. Swimming through silent statues while fish darted in and out of their arms was surreal. Even snorkelers can enjoy it on clearer days. The sculptures aren’t just decorative—they help support marine life by acting as artificial reefs. It’s a cool intersection of art, conservation, and adventure. If you’re looking to dip into the underwater world without going too far from town, this spot is a must.
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