The Turkish island of Kekova is often and deservedly called the “Pearl of the Mediterranean.” Although small, it is always crowded with tourists. This island is included in Turkey yachting itineraries, and one of the best activities is a glass-bottom boat ride.

Kekova Attractions and Attractions
The ruins of the ancient city of Dolichiste, destroyed by an earthquake, are located on the northern side of the island. The ruins are partially submerged, but some structures are visible above water.

Kekova Island and its surroundings were declared a protected area in 1990, making swimming strictly prohibited. However, this ban was later lifted, with the exception of the ruins of the sunken cities.

In addition to the island itself, the Kekova region includes the villages of Kaleköy (ancient Simena) and Uçağız (ancient Teimoussa), as well as the ancient city of Aperlai.

Kaleköy
Kaleköy is a small village, approximately 7,000 years old. It was built on a hill between Kaş and Kale, amid a partially sunken Lycian necropolis and opposite Kekova Island. A short walk uphill from the coast reveals two large sarcophagi-like tombs. A little higher up, at the foot of the fortress, are the ruins of an ancient temple. At the very top of the hill stands an ancient Byzantine fortress. Within the fortress walls is a small amphitheater carved into the rock.

Uçağiz
Uçağiz, also known as Teimussa, is a small village built on the ruins of an ancient city. Sarcophagi from the Lycian period are remarkably well preserved to this day.

Aperlai
Aperlai is a Lycian city, now in ruins, built west of Uçağiz near the port of Sıcak. There you can see the ancient ruins of what was once the mighty Aperlai fortress—remnants of city walls, ancient sarcophagi, forts, and columns. Three square watchtowers rise above the city walls. Inside the fortress are the ruins of a Byzantine chapel.