Kaş

A charming bohemian town carved into cliffsides with exceptional diving, snorkeling, and swimming in crystalline Mediterranean waters. Known for its artistic community, seafood restaurants, and as the gateway to sunken Lycian tombs.

Things to do

• Dive at Kaş Diving Sites — Explore world-class dive spots including the British P-ship wreck and vibrant coral gardens in waters with exceptional visibility reaching 40+ meters.
• Visit Lycian Rock Tombs — Paddle or boat to the ancient cliff-carved burial chambers of the Lycian civilization dating back 2,400 years, visible from the water and accessible by kayak.
• Snorkel in Kaş Harbor — Wade directly into the town's azure harbor to encounter octopus, grouper, and sea bream among underwater rock formations and small ruins.
• Kayak to Kekova Island — Paddle to the sunken Lycian city of Kekova where submerged walls and stone structures are visible just below the surface in shallow, protected waters.
• Hike to Patara Beach — Trek eastward through pine forests to Turkey's longest sandy beach, famous for sea turtle nesting and backed by dramatic Lycian ruins.
• Explore the Kaş Antique Theater — Climb to the small ancient Lycian amphitheater perched above town with views across the Mediterranean toward Meis Island.
• Boat Trip to Butterfly Valley — Take a boat excursion to the hidden canyon at Butterfly Valley where thousands of butterflies congregate seasonally and a waterfall feeds a small pebble beach.

Food to try

• Grilled Octopus (Ahtapot Izgara) — Tender octopus caught fresh from Kaş waters, marinated in olive oil and lemon, then charred on open flames—a specialty of harborside restaurants.
• Seafood Meze Platter — A traditional spread of small plates featuring marinated anchovies, smoked mackerel, sea urchin roe, and grilled shrimp served with fresh bread and raki.
• Hamsi Tava (Pan-Fried Anchovies) — Whole small anchovies rolled in flour and quickly fried until crispy, served with fresh lemon and eaten headfirst—a local staple.
• Stuffed Red Mullet (Barbun Dolması) — Fresh Mediterranean red mullet delicately stuffed with pine nuts, herbs, and rice, then baked wrapped in grape leaves.
• Mezze and Raki Evening — An evening ritual of slowly sampling multiple small plates with local anise-flavored raki, sitting on a waterfront terrace as the sun sets over Greece's Meis Island.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Local Diving Etiquette — Kaş is serious about marine conservation—divers must use registered operators, follow depth limits, and never touch coral or remove artifacts from underwater Lycian sites.
• Dress for Hillside Heat — The town's steep clifftop streets and afternoon sun demand loose cotton clothing, hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes; many streets have no shade.
• Book Restaurants by Evening — Waterfront restaurants fill quickly during summer months, especially at sunset; arrive by 7pm or reserve ahead to secure table views and avoid long waits.
• Learn Basic Turkish Greetings — Kaş remains less touristy than nearby Antalya—locals appreciate visitors who greet with 'Merhaba' and ask 'Afiyet olsun' (bon appétit) when passing diners.