Explore Kaş, Turkey: Top Things to Do, Day Trips & Practical Tips

Kaş is a laid-back Mediterranean town where turquoise water, ancient ruins, and a friendly lo cal rhythm come together. This guide gathers practical tips, favorite experiences, and must-see places so you can plan a relaxed, unforgettable trip—whether you’re after diving, hiking the Lycian Way, island hopping, or simply sipping Turkish tea by the harbor.

Why visit Kaş?

Small and walkable, Kaş feels both authentic and effortlessly elegant. Here are the things that make it special:

Crystal-clear sea with excellent snorkeling and diving sites.
Rich history—Lycian rock tombs, Antiphellos theatre, and nearby archaeological sites.
Outdoor adventure—boat tours, paragliding, kayaking, and hiking.
Charming Old Town—narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, bougainvillea, and cozy cafés.
Convenient base for day trips to Kekova, Kaputaş, Patara, and even Kastellorizo (Meis Island).

How to get there

The two main airports serving Kaş are Antalya and Dalaman. Dalaman is a bit closer, but Antalya offers more flight options.

From the airport: bus, private transfer, or rental car. Renting a car is ideal if you want to explore the coastline at your own pace.
Ferry and private yachts dock at Kaş Marina, giving the town an international vibe.

Getting around Kaş

The town center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so most places are reachable on foot. For day trips, a rental car is convenient. Scooters and bikes are popular for short distances, while public minibuses are the cheapest local option.

Top places and day trips

These are the highlights you won’t want to miss:

Kaş Old Town — Wander the cobbled lanes, discover boutique shops, and sit for tea at a waterfront café.
Kaş Harbour & Marina — Watch fishing boats, enjoy seafood, and book boat tours to nearby bays.
The King’s Tomb & Lycian Rock Tombs — Ancient sarcophagi and cliffside tombs that glow spectacularly at sunset.
Antiphellos Theatre — A dramatic seaside ancient theater, especially magical at golden hour.
Kaputaş Beach — Famous for intense turquoise water and dramatic views reached via a staircase.
Kekova Sunken City & Kaleköy (Simena) — Boat cruises, castle ruins, and the island-like charm of an ancient harbor village.
Kastellorizo (Meis Island) & Blue Cave — A short boat trip to a colorful Greek island and the electric blue cave.
Patara Ruins & Beach — Long sandy beach backed by Roman ruins and a relaxed atmosphere.
Letoon & Xanthos — Olive-tree framed Lycian cities that offer a deeper sense of the region’s history.
Saklıkent National Park — A dramatic canyon with cold river water and scenic hikes.

Activities to try

Boat tours — A must for hidden coves, snorkeling, and views of the sunken ruins.
Scuba diving — The underwater heritages and marine life are excellent for divers.
Paragliding — Offers spectacular aerial views of the coastline.
Hiking the Lycian Way — Even a short section delivers dramatic coastal scenery and ancient ruins.
Kayaking — Quiet, close-to-nature exploration of small bays and sea caves.
Turkish bath (hammam) — A relaxing local ritual to unwind after active days.

Where to eat and what to try

Seafood dominates, often prepared simply and impeccably fresh. Recommended dishes and treats:

Grilled sea bass and other fresh fish
Mezes—assorted small plates perfect for sharing
Oven-baked lamb and traditional stews
Street food like gözleme and dürüm for a budget-friendly bite
Local desserts and goat milk ice cream for a sweet finish

Shopping and souvenirs

Look for handmade jewelry, colorful ceramics, woven textiles, leather sandals, and locally produced olive oil soaps. Bargaining is common and part of the friendly marketplace experience.

Where to stay

Options range from budget guesthouses and cozy boutique hotels in the town center to luxury properties perched on the hills. Staying near the center keeps you within walking distance of the harbor, cafés, and small beaches.

Nightlife and culture

Kaş nightlife is relaxed and quality-focused. Expect live music at taverns, wine bars, and a handful of bars with DJ sets during peak season. Cultural moments—like an evening of traditional music and dancing—are memorable and authentic.

Practical tips

Best time to visit: Late spring and early autumn for warm weather with fewer crowds. Summer is busiest and hottest. Winter is quiet and mild if you prefer off-season travel.
Currency: Turkish Lira. Cards are widely accepted, but keep cash for market stalls and small beach clubs.
Language: Basic English is common in tourist areas. A simple "Merhaba" goes a long way.
Safety: Very safe for solo travelers, including solo women. Use common-sense precautions and agree on prices before taxis or tours.
Clothing: Light clothes for hot days, layers for cooler evenings. Swimwear at beaches; cover up in town and at religious sites.
Budget tips: Stay in guesthouses, eat at local cafés, use public minibuses, and enjoy free activities like hiking and exploring ruins.
Emergency: General emergency number in Turkey is 112.

Suggested itineraries

Quick weekend (2–3 days)

Day 1: Explore Old Town, harbor, and an evening at Kaş Marina.
Day 2: Boat tour to Kekova or Kastellorizo and swimming at hidden bays.
Day 3: Morning at Kaputaş or Küçük Çakıl, then a relaxed breakfast and stroll before departure.

Relaxed week (6–7 days)

Days 1–2: Old Town, harbor, Antiphellos Theatre, and Lycian rock tombs.
Day 3: Full-day boat trip to Kekova, Kaleköy, and the sunken city.
Day 4: Day trip to Kaputaş and Kalkan for dinner.
Day 5: Hike a section of the Lycian Way and visit Patara.
Day 6: Scuba diving or paragliding; hammam in the evening.
Day 7: Slow morning, shopping, and departure.

Final thoughts

Kaş is a place to slow down and savor. Between ancient stones and clear water, it mixes adventure and ease in a way that stays with you. Whether you come for diving, hiking, or simply the pace of seaside life, Kaş rewards both curiosity and quiet moments.

"Merhaba" and a smile will make many local interactions more personal. Embrace the friendly, unhurried rhythm and leave room in your plans for unexpected discoveries.