KAŞ TURKEY - 5 BEST THINGS to do in KAS ANTALYA, TURKIYE

Mar 11

Our Unforgettable Week in Kaş: 5 Reasons We Fell in Love with this Turkish Gem!

Our southwest Turkey road trip was an open-ended adventure, and boy, are we glad it was! We originally planned to spend just three days in the charming coastal town of Kaş, but it quickly captivated us and turned into a full week. Honestly, we almost didn't want to leave at all! Here are the five incredible experiences that made us fall head over heels for Kaş.

1. Island Hopping to Ancient Cities: Kekova & Kaleköy

One of the absolute must-do activities in Kaş is exploring the ancient Lycian sunken city of Kekova and the enchanting village of Kaleköy. The best way to do this is by boat, and we had a fantastic experience with Bermuda Boat. For about 150 Turkish Lira, we enjoyed an 8-hour tour with multiple swimming stops, a delicious lunch, and even afternoon tea and cookies!

The highlight was Kaleköy, a charming village crowned by a medieval castle. It's a steep but worthwhile climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise bay and the edge of the sunken city. We loved it so much that we even came back a second time by renting a private boat from the nearby village of Üçağız, which allowed us to explore at our own pace and beat the crowds. Don't miss the chance to see the ancient Lycian sarcophagus submerged in the water – it's a truly unique sight!

2. Diving into the Blue: Our First Scuba Experience!

Kaş is renowned for having some of the best diving spots in all of Turkey, so we decided to take the plunge and try scuba diving for the first time! It was an incredible experience. We opted for a beginner's course where we were paired with an instructor for a personalized and safe introduction to the underwater world. Breathing underwater while watching colorful fish swim by was a surreal and amazing feeling. While we only got a taster of the experience and not a full certification (that takes a few days), it was an unforgettable adventure that we highly recommend.

3. Beach Days and Desert Vibes: Kaputaş & Patara

If relaxing on the beach is more your speed, Kaş has two world-famous spots nearby that you can't miss.

Kaputaş Beach: Located about 25 minutes from Kaş, this stunning public beach is nestled at the foot of a canyon. You'll have to descend 186 steps to reach its pristine shores, but the turquoise water is absolutely worth it! The mix of fresh canyon water and seawater makes it refreshingly cool. It gets popular, so we suggest arriving early to claim your spot.
Patara Beach: This incredible beach is located within the ancient city of Patara, so you can combine history with beach time! For a small entrance fee (or free with a Turkish Museum Card), you can explore the ancient ruins before heading to the vast sandy beach. What makes Patara truly special are its stunning sand dunes – you'll feel like you've been transported to a desert! We highly recommend staying for the gorgeous sunset.

4. Charming Streets and Delicious Eats: Exploring Kaş Marina

After a day of adventure, there's nothing better than a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Kaş. The marina area is lined with beautiful restaurants offering fresh seafood and stunning waterfront views. We loved getting lost in the narrow side streets, browsing the boutique shops, and soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

On the recommendation of our boat captain, we had dinner at Smiley's, a fantastic fish restaurant right on the marina. We tried the "lagos," a local specialty, and it was absolutely delicious – some of the best fish we've ever had!

5. A Unique Stay: Our First Glamping Experience!

For our accommodation in Kaş, we decided to try something a little different and booked our first-ever glamping experience! Just a short drive from the city center, we stayed in a comfortable tent that offered a unique connection with nature without sacrificing comfort. While we were initially a bit nervous as city dwellers, we absolutely loved it! There were also other options like stone houses and bungalows for those wanting a bit more luxury (and a private bathroom!). Waking up to the sounds of nature was the perfect way to start our days in this beautiful part of the world.

Our Final Thoughts: Kaş is a Must-Visit!

Our week in Kaş was filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. From its stunning beaches and ancient history to its vibrant town center and unique accommodation options, Kaş truly has something for everyone. It’s a gem on the Turkish coast that we can't wait to return to someday!

Have you been to Kaş? Share your favorite experiences or tips in the comments below!