Cobbled streets are lined with bougainvillea-covered stone houses, and boats line the harbour, evidence of the fishing economy that supports the town.
When visiting Turkey, a few days in Kas (pronounced “Kash”) is the ideal holiday within a holiday. The peace and sense of escape will recharge those who pause here to enjoy the water, see the submerged ancient cities and soak up the sun.
Best things to do in beautiful Kas
With relaxation high on the agenda, it might be challenging to venture from the sun lounge and explore. To find that motivation requires a compelling itinerary — here’s where to begin.
Cruise to see the underwater Lycian castle of Simena
Kas, Turkey by AdobeStock
Perhaps the top experience that awaits in Kas is a boat tour to see the ruins of Simena Castle, near the island of Kalekoy. The sparkling turquoise waters reveal where this section of coast gets its nickname.
This full-day excursion reveals underwater marvels, with stairs, buildings, chapels and more visible beneath the ocean. There’s plenty of time to enjoy the irresistible water and cool off — swimwear (and a snorkel) are highly recommended.
On the island's cliffs, ancient dwellings have been cut directly into the stone. Enjoy lunch at sea, sunbathe on the deck and swim in the open water. This is a day to remember!
Explore the market on Friday
Friday is market day in Kas, where visitors lucky enough to be in town can purchase fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables from local villages, handmade trinkets, clothing, shoes or local handicrafts. There are even specialist jewellery stores with one-of-a-kind pieces crafted by local artisans.
The Friday market brings people from nearby villages and the Greek island of Meis together. Enjoy freshly made pancakes, try a new Turkish street food or source trinkets for loved ones at home — market Friday is the perfect time to see the local town in action.
With shopping complete, it’s time to visit the leafy Cay Bahcsei (tea garden) on the main square and watch the world go by.
Go snorkelling or swimming in the ocean
Kas is now a popular scuba diving destination, with plenty to see underwater. With time to spare, excess energy and a sense of adventure, visitors can explore over 50 submerged wrecks, creating artificial reefs that attract local sea creatures.
Take a boat out to Kekova Island for snorkelling to see the remains of the ancient city of Dolikisthe, which sank into the sea in an earthquake in 2 AD. Snorkelling or kayaking over the ruins reveals the remains of what was once a large trading city.
Look for the Byzantine church shimmering beneath the water.
Dine on fresh, locally caught seafood
With fishing a key part of the local economy, it’s unsurprising that the seafood in local restaurants is delicious. Plenty of small restaurants overlook the harbour and bars, each offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
Watch the fishing boats and gulets (wooden yachts built on the southwest coast of Turkey) bobbing in the harbour and enjoy a freshly caught meal (choose from fresh fish piled on ice) — perfect!
Explore Patara beach
Patara is a protected area and one of Turkey’s longest beaches, stretching 18 km along the coast. On such a long beach it’s easy to find a quiet spot to enjoy the sea, surf and sand, even on a busy day. During the summer season between May and October, temperatures will be mild and the days will be sunny. Rest, swim, sunbathe or walk in nature — this timeless location epitomises coastal life.
Limestone peaks tower above the waves and golden dunes roll back from the coast. It’s the perfect place to catch the sunset—these dunes feature in many Turkish films. Lucky visitors may even spot an endangered loggerhead turtle hatching and journeying to the ocean. This beach is a nesting area for the protected species.
Kas, Turkey by @phudd23/Flickr
Roman and Lycian ruins near Patara
Nearby are several sites with Lycian and Roman ruins. Many sites have ongoing archaeological digs underway, uncovering findings that often make the news. In August 2011 the Tlos Roman statues of Antoninus and Hadrian were discovered nearby and are now part of a collection at the Fethiye Archaeological Museum (in another Turquoise Coast town).
The ancient city of Patara, according to tradition, was the winter home of Apollo and in later times was granted independence from Rome, then recaptured by Brutus and Cassius in their campaign against Mark Anthony and Augustus. In Christian times Patara gained fame when Paul stopped here on the way to Jerusalem.
Kas, Turkey by Julian Mason/Flickr
There is a hillside theatre, built from stone, with stepped seats above the amphitheatre floor. The assembly hall for the Lycian League is partly restored, showing how small the council chamber space was — standing room only!
Towards the harbour, a reconstructed sailing vessel serves as a reminder that this was once a busy harbour. Off to the side of the ruins is the location of the ancient baths. Nearby there is another triumphal Roman gate built in AD 100, which marks the original main entrance to Patara.
More ancient ruins are nearby to explore, including Xanthos, Komba, Nisa, and Kandyba, nestled in the lovely coastal landscape. Most are located along the Lycian Way hiking trail.
After exploring the ruins, it’s time for the beach — near the entrance locals sell drinks, snacks and even ice cream.
Take the ferry to the Greek island of Meis
Another excellent day trip from Kas is to take the ferry across the Meis, one of the smallest islands in the Dodecanese archipelago (remember to bring a passport!). This tiny island can be explored in a few hours.
There’s a Blue Grotto a short boat taxi away, inside the cave the light is deep blue, giving an aura of mysticism to the space. Swim inside the cave or capture a stunning photograph — this is a surreal experience to remember.
The island’s mansions are coloured light blue and yellow, lining the harbour along with waterfront restaurants where lunch is enjoyed at leisure.
Experience Kas’ undiluted authentic Turkish vibe in person with a small group tour
Kas is a true Turkish gem, with an easy coastal lifestyle and dedicated Turkish culture. From the sunrise watched from the harbour with breakfast in hand to the evenings spent enjoying mellow live music after dusk, Kas is an idyllic retreat on the coast of Turkey.
One of the best ways to enjoy this stunning seaside town is with a small group tour — with the certainty of a set itinerary that includes the top places and experiences, along with free time to immerse in the local community, Bunnik Tours makes each trip an experience to remember.
Ready for the journey of a lifetime? Learn more about exploring Turkey in depth to bring those travel dreams to life.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kas, Turkey worth visiting?
Kas is a beautiful coastal town, authentically Turkish, and reminiscent of the Greek islands. Explore the Roman and Lycian ruins on land and submerged under the sea, go snorkelling or kayaking or simply relax on a sun lounge with a cool drink at a local restaurant. This is a place to include on any great Europe trip!
Does Kas have a beach?
Kas has a few small public beaches that can be accessed by foot or taxi from the main harbour. Buyukcakill (Big Pebble Beach) is 1.4km from the harbour and has a small restaurant with sun lounges and evening entertainment. Hidayet Bay is 3.4km away, with a restaurant on site and great snorkelling.