Packed with beautiful beaches, cobblestone streets, and stunning access to the country’s Turquoise Coast, these amazing things to do in Kas, Turkiye invite you to explore the town’s must-see wonders and hidden gems.
Situated deep on the coast of Antalya in Southwest Turkiye, about halfway between the bustling resort town of Fethiye and the quiet streets of Demre sits the perfect middle-ground for those looking for the rich flavors of the Turquoise Coast in an authentic, not overly-commercialized package.
Kas (pronounced “Kash”), is an idyllic coastal town offering a charming blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences. Lining the steep hills from the modern, upper city to the waterfront beauty of the old city are countless artisan boutiques and charming cafes. These historic cobblestone streets wind their way downhill, occasionally broken in their pattern by millennia-old Lycian tombs which the city architects have had the forethought to not disturb over thousands of years of city building. And these are just the tip of all of the amazing things to do in Kas, Turkiye.
Kas is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back, Bohemian lifestyle. It’s a town that attracts nearly as many visitors and expats as there are locals. Yet it still retains an authentic, Turkish style. While the word may be out on this, formerly, hidden gem, it remains one of the top places to visit in Turkiye and was a must-stop on our road trip through Antalya.
About Kas, Turkiye
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The town of Kas traces its roots back to ancient Lycia. Similar to the rock tombs of Dalyan and Fethiye, evidence of this culture, which existed from the 15th to the 5th century BCE, can be found throughout the region.
The town grew to be an important fishing and trading port, and its importance grew through the Roman and Byzantine eras. It’s a fascinating town where the architecture of its long history is evident in the surviving buildings and structures.
In modern times, Kas evolved into a charming fishing village. Its quiet streets and authentic lifestyle began to draw the attention of visitors who were charmed by the attractions in Kas paired with its natural and cultural beauty. It eventually evolved into a thriving tourist destination and now features a range of incredible restaurants, things to do, and fantastic restaurants.
Kas has a delightful laid-back atmosphere. It’s busy and popular, but not so over-commercialized that it’s overwhelming. It’s a paradise for sunseekers, especially those with a love for SCUBA diving and snorkeling. A wealth of ancient shipwrecks and colorful marine life off its coasts make for unforgettable waters.
Inland, olive groves and towering cliffs make for stunning hiking and nature experiences. The town lies along the famed Lycian Way, a long-distance hiking trail that runs from Fethiye to Antalya passing historic ruins and Lycian tombs along the way.
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Kas, read on and discover why this small town is a wealth of adventure.
The Best Things To Do In Kas
The top attractions in Kas vary as much as the history of this picturesque city. It’s a town that’s as easy to spend a weekend in as it is a week or longer. These things to do in Kas showcase the top experiences in the city, but there’s always more to do if you look even deeper.
Stroll The City Streets
Kas is one of the prettiest cities in Turkiye. With winding cobblestone streets lined with artisan boutiques, quaint restaurants, and charming cafes, simply wandering the streets of Kas is one of the city’s greatest experiences.
Don’t just stroll during the day though. At night, when the sun goes down and the shops turn on their twinkling lights, Kas transforms into a romantic seaside escape where perfect evening temperatures allow for a more casual stroll through town.
Antiphellos
Sitting at the base of the Kas Peninsula on the edge of the city is one of the greatest historical gems in Kas. Anthiphellos offers a step back to Kas during its Hellenistic and Roman rule. Take a walk through the well-preserved ruins of the ancient amphitheater which once hosted dramatic performances, political speeches, and social gatherings.
Antiphellos is also home to a number of impressive Lycian tombs that are intricately carved into the surrounding cliffs. They offer an incredible reminder of the intricate burial practices of the Lycian people as well as panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Antiphellos was once one of ancient Lycia’s most important port towns. This area has been transformed into a charming marina in modern times where you can savor Mediterranean cuisine at waterfront restaurants or set sail on harbor cruises or snorkeling excursions.
The fusion of the ancient and the modern in this area the city makes it one of the best places to visit in Kas. Antiphellos offers some of the best of the city in a very easy-to-experience package.
Small Pebble Beach (Küçük Çakıl) and Big Pebble Beach (Büyükçakıl Plajı)
Small Pebble Beach and Big Pebble Beach are two of the most popular beaches in Kas, Turkiye. Both of the beaches are close to the center of town and make for a great place for a relaxing dip in the Mediterranean.
Small Pebble Beach (also known as Küçük Çakıl) is popular both early and late in the day when it gets ample shade from the surrounding cliffs. As its name suggests, it’s a tiny beach. But there are still amenities for sunbathers and swimmers who want to spend the day here. You can rent loungers and umbrellas or visit some of the small restaurants lining the beach.
Big Pebble Beach (Büyükçakıl Plajı) is about 15 minutes from Small Pebble Beach. The beach has a parking lot, so it’s a bit more convenient to get there if you’re renting a car. There are loungers and umbrellas to rent as well as a few small cafes and restaurants.
Both the beaches are free to use. Make sure to bring water shoes or flip-flops as walking on the pebbles barefoot can be hard on your feet.
İnceboğaz Çınar Beach
If you’re enjoying family travel in Turkiye, İnceboğaz Çınar Beach is the best family-friendly beach in Kas. Located on a narrow stretch of the Kas peninsula, the beach actually sits on both sides of the land and each side offers a unique experience.
The south-facing beach is more exposed with a pebbly beach and bright blue water. The north-facing beach is more sheltered, with calmer water and a sandier floor. It takes just two minutes to walk from one side to the other, so you can easily try them both out.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
With a wealth of shipwrecks and marine life, Kas has become one of the go-to destinations in Turkiye for snorkeling and SCUBA diving. The town’s prime location along the Mediterranean coast provides access to some of the world’s most pristine water and ample underwater experiences.
Whether you’re a novice or an expert, there are snorkeling and diving sites that fit all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to swim around reefs teeming with octopus and colorful fish or dive deep among ancient shipwrecks, it’s truly an underwater paradise and one of the best things to do in Kas.
The waters around Kas are also known for their world-class visibility, making it a great place for underwater photography.
For snorkelers, the shallow coves and rocky shores surrounding Kas are home to an array of marine species and vibrant aquatic plants. Swimmers can dip in from the shores or take a boat trip to some of the more secluded spots along the coast.
Kas Friday Market
Nothing gets to the heart of a city like a local market. The Kas Friday Market is no exception and it’s without a doubt one of the best things to do in the city for those lucky enough to be spending a weekend in Kas.
This bustling open-air market is a fusion of local culture and cuisine. Throughout the stalls are a showcase of local Turkish culture from fresh produce to handmade crafts and artisanal products. The market offers one of the best ways to engage with the local community and take part in a local tradition that goes back over a century.
Things To Do Near Kas
Many of the best things to do near Kas lie just outside of the city. Kas is a small town, but there are many attractions nearby that can add to your experience in the area.
Kekova Island, Simena Castle, and Simena Sunken City
Kekova Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient wonders. The island, which sits about 45 minutes from town is one of the top things to do near Kas.
The island, often called the “Sunken City” is famous for its submerged Lycian ruins. This city, which was claimed by the sea thanks to dramatic earthquakes helps to tell the tale of ancient Lycia. Throughout the island are partially submerged buildings, staircases, and pottery shards that create an otherworldly archaeological site.
We embarked on a kayak tour of Kekova Island where we had plenty of changes to swim and explore. It’s actually quite hard to see many of the ruins that are underwater due to the tour boat traffic, but the scenic coastlines offer many chances to spy where the sections of the buildings that didn’t slip beneath the waves.
The island is home to the Kalekoy fishing village, which has lots of stops for artisan browsers. At its peak is a medieval castle known as “Simena Castle” that stands dramatically over the blue waters. My personal favorite part of the island was swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon centered by a Lycian tomb right in the water.
You can find our guide to Kekova and Kalekoy here.
Kaputas Beach
Located along the jaw-dropping coastal drive between Kas and Kalkan, Kaputas Beach is the newest go-to beach in Kas. The dramatic landscapes here, formed by a striking gorge that opens out onto a small, but scenic stretch of sand is one of the top places to visit near Kas.
Accessing Kaputas Beach means climbing down a long set of stairs, but the rewards, both from the top and the bottom, are well worth it. There are umbrella and sun lounger rentals as well as a small restaurant on-site so that you don’t need to hike the stairs again and again throughout the day.
I highly recommend that you arrive early to secure yourself a spot. It’s not a large beach, and it can get very popular.
Myra Rock Tombs and Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Demre
Located about 45 minutes east of Kas along one of the most beautiful drives in Turkiye lies the city of Demre. My family spent a little time here as well on our Turkiye itinerary and loved it for its quiet atmosphere and relaxing vibe.
Home to the Saint Nicholas Cathedral and the Myra Rock Tombs, Demre is a great day trip from Kas or a destination of its own.
The Saint Nicholas Cathedral, or the Church of Saint Nicholas, is a former cathedral that has been transformed into a museum. The Byzantine structure was the original burial place of Saint Nicholas, otherwise known as Santa Claus, who was born nearby in Patara.
The Myra Tombs, carved into the rock faces overlooking the town are a testament to Lycian civilization similar to what can be seen in Kas, Fethiye, and Dalyan. The tombs date back to the 4th century BCE. Visitors can still see the intricate details and carvings that adorn the walls and doorways.
You can find our guide to the best things to do in Demre right here.
Patara Beach
Patara Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Turkiye. This stunning stretch of coastline sits within Patara National Park, which houses both Patara Beach and the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Patara.
With an incredible combination of natural beauty and historic importance, Patara Beach was one of our favorite stops along our road trip through the Turquoise Coast. Adding to the beauty is the fact that Patara Beach is also a nesting place for the Loggerhead Caretta-caretta Turtles.
You can read our complete guide to Patara Beach here.
Saklikent National Park
Saklikent Gorge is one of the most popular attractions in southwest Turkiye. Located within Saklikent National Park, Saklikent Gorge is the longest and deepest canyon in the country. The gorge itself is stunningly beautiful with a hike that passes through ice-cold streams and beautiful waterfalls.
Inside Saklikent National Park are streamside restaurants, opportunities for tubing down the river, and amazing hikes with beautiful views.
You can read our complete guide to Saklikent National Park here.
Greek Island Of Meis
One of the best day trips from Kas is actually to the country of Greece. The Greek Island of Meis to be clear. Meis, also known as Kastellorizo can be reached via ferry from Kas. This enchanting island is small, but gorgeous and offers an easy introduction to Greek food and culture.
The Meis harbor is delightful and invites visitors into the island’s midst through its colorful buildings that line the waterfront. Throughout the main town, you’ll find traditional Greek tavernas, wonderful cafes, and boutiques for shopping. There are also many great opportunities to try Greek food (I highly recommend Restaurante Pepe Vieira)
Don’t miss the island’s iconic Blue Grotto, an amazing sea cave known for its strikingly blue waters and impressive rock formations. The island is also home to a number of historical sites including the Knights of St. John Castle and the Church of St. Constantine.
Tips For Family Travel In Turkiye
Family travel in Turkiye, especially in places like Sanliurfa and the Southeast, requires some planning and a little bit of luck. Some areas of this country can be closed due to political unrest, so it’s always a good idea to check out current travel advisories and stay informed of the current travel status.
Check out our Turkiye Family Travel Blog for everything that you need to know about family travel in Turkiye and watch ouf Tips for Family Travel in Turkiye video below to help you plan an unforgettable visit to this mesmerizing and wonderful country.
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Enjoy Your Time In Kas, Turkiye!
Kas is a delightful town on the Turquoise Coast in Turkiye. With its picturesque streets and ample attractions, the town invites visitors to stay for longer than they ever expected. The town is still growing in popularity, so I highly recommend that you visit before it hits the heights of places like Istanbul and Ephesus. After all, its popularity is well deserved.
The vast range of things to do in Kas makes this far more than a simple beach escape. Kas melds a range of history, natural beauty, and culture into an easy-to-digest slice of Turkiye.
You can find more great information about visiting Turkiye on our Turkiye Family Travel Blog. Or feel free to join our Family Travel Support Group on Facebook. You can connect with more family travelers just like you who love to explore the world.
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