Kate stands on a wooden overlook gazing out at the turquoise waters and sandy shore of Kaputaş Beach near Kaş, Turkey, framed by dramatic limestone cliffs.

19 Epic Things to Do in Kas on the Turquoise Coast

Looking for the best things to do in Kas? You’re in the right place.

My husband and I spent an incredible 5 days here after eloping in Cappadocia, and honestly it was the perfect little mini honeymoon along the dreamy Turquoise Coast.

In this post, I’m spilling all the details—from jaw-dropping beaches and epic castle hikes to scuba diving with sunken tanks and devouring the freshest seafood. Whether you’re planning your first trip or just looking for travel inspo, you’ll find everything you need to make the most of your time in Kas.

Let’s just say… you’re gonna want to bookmark this one.

Pro Tip: It’s pronounced “Kahsh,” in case you were wondering.

A view from a boat looking toward the charming harbor of Kaş, Turkey, with rows of moored boats, whitewashed buildings, and forested mountains rising in the background under a clear blue sky.

Airport Transfers: Welcome Pickups
Rental Car: Discover Cars
Cheap Flights: Expedia
 Accommodation: Hotels.com
Tours & Excursions: Viator

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    19 of The Most Epic Things You’ll Want to Do in Kas Turkey

    Kas is the perfect home base for exploring the best of the Turkish Riviera. From pristine beaches to ancient ruins and epic boat tours, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences here.

    Below are 19 of the most epic things to do in Kas—tried, tested, and totally worth adding to your Kas Turkey itinerary.

    A tree-framed view overlooking Kaputaş Beach near Kaş, Turkey, with sunbathers and swimmers scattered across the golden sand and clear turquoise waters.
    Kate poses joyfully at the edge of the water on a serene beach near Kaş, Turkey, wearing a black bikini and sun hat with sparkling turquoise sea behind her.

    1. Kaputaş Beach

    Kaputaş Beach easily tops my list of things to do and see in Kas—and once you see it, you’ll get why it’s voted the number one beach on the Turkish Riviera.

    It’s tucked between towering cliff walls along the winding coastal road about a 25-minute drive from town.

    The water is unreal—bright turquoise and so clear it looks like a swimming pool, and there’s even a spot for cliff diving if you’re feeling adventurous. A long staircase leads you down to the beach, where you’ll find a small restaurant, sun beds for rent, and public restrooms.

    There’s limited parking along the main road, so go early to snag a spot!

    2. Sunken City of  Kekova Island

    The Sunken City of Kekova is one of the most popular attractions to go see from Kas.

    You can only see it by joining a boat or kayak tour.

    Even though you can’t swim or snorkel over the ruins, just floating above the ancient city that literally sank into the sea is still such a cool experience.

    As we cruised over the crystal-clear water, we could see old stone walls, staircases, and parts of buildings just sitting below the surface. It’s wild to think a whole city used to be there before it slipped into the sea.

    👉 Book The Best Sunken City Tour Here


    Kate and her husband sit smiling on a dive boat in Kaş, Turkey, giving thumbs up in wetsuits beside scuba tanks and gear.
    Kate poses atop a sunken military tank on the seafloor near Kaş, Turkey, giving a thumbs up through the blue water.
    Kate playfully aims a faux weapon while floating beside the turret of a submerged tank in crystal-clear waters off the coast of Kaş.
    Kate and her husband smile in wetsuits for a post-dive selfie in front of the red and white Nautilus dive boat, with Kaş’s rocky coastline behind them.

    3. Scuba Dive

    Kas is known as Turkey’s top scuba diving destination.

    The waterfront is lined with dive boats, and you can literally just stroll along the wharf, chat with a few captains or crew members, and find an opening that works for you.

    We went with Nautilus and had a great experience. They’ve got solid reviews and made everything super easy.

    The reef isn’t super vibrant these days, but the dives are still really cool, thanks to the sunken airplane, an old war tank, and even some underwater sculptures carved right into the sea floor. The water’s super clear and calm too, which makes it perfect for both beginner and experienced divers.

    Kate smiles in a striped romper and sunhat while sitting barefoot on the edge of a boat, with turquoise water and rocky islets near Kaş, Turkey in the background.
    Kate floats relaxed in the clear blue waters near Kaş, Turkey, wearing a sunhat and sunglasses with rocky shoreline behind her.
    A traditional Turkish gulet boat with a red Turkish flag floats in calm turquoise waters, surrounded by the lush, hilly islets near Kaş, Turkey under a clear blue sky.

    4. Take a Boat Tour

    A boat tour along the Turquoise Coast is an absolute must when visiting Kas—it was hands down one of the most fun things we did.

    It’s a full-day trip on a charming old wooden boat, with plenty of stops to swim in the most insanely turquoise bays you’ve ever seen. They served an amazing lunch onboard, and we spent the day diving off the deck, sunbathing, and just soaking it all in. The water was so clear it didn’t even look real.

    Highly recommend adding this to your Kas itinerary!

    👉 Book This Epic Boat Tour Here!


    Kate relaxes in a stone window nook of Simena Castle, looking out over the turquoise sea and anchored boats near Kaleköy, Turkey.
    Ancient stone steps lead up the weathered outer wall of Simena Castle, with its crenellated battlements silhouetted against a vibrant blue sky.
    Kate and her husband pose atop Simena Castle with sweeping views of Kaleköy’s rugged coastline, islets, and deep blue Mediterranean waters behind them.
    Sweeping views of Kaleköy’s rugged coastline from atop Simena Castle.

    5. Explore Simena Castle and Kaleköy

    Exploring Simena Castle and the tiny village of Kaleköy was such a highlight of our boat tour—we stopped here for over an hour and loved every minute.

    The island is super charming, with little handmade goods for sale along the narrow paths (I bought the cutest dress from a local woman, and it’s come with me on every sunny trip since!).

    Climbing up to the castle is a fun little adventure, and the views from the top are absolutely stunning.

    Don’t miss the video below—our boat captain captured some epic aerial shots that still blow me away.

    Simena Castle and Kaleköy

    Kate strolls through a quaint stone-paved street in Kaş, lined with whitewashed shops, hanging textiles, and bright bougainvillea under a blue sky.
    A cozy table set with two glasses of red wine and a platter of cheese, olives, and strawberries sits on a charming cobblestone street in Kaş, Turkey.
    Kate walks past the entrance of Pirzula Meyhane in Kaş, Turkey, under blooming branches and rustic bamboo awnings, with Efes beer crates stacked nearby.

    6. Wander the Streets of Kas

    Wandering the cobblestone streets of Kas feels like stepping into a Mediterranean postcard.

    The town is full of charm with its wooden balconies, cozy outdoor cafés, and cute little boutiques where you can pick up unique gifts or souvenirs.

    I loved just strolling around, popping into shops, and chatting with the super friendly locals (even the stray dogs are sweet and well cared for!).

    A copper goblet-style cocktail garnished with strawberries and lime sits on a rustic wood slab at an outdoor café in Kaş, Turkey.
    Be sure to just slow down and enjoy the local scene and grab a drink.

    7. Shop the Vendors at the Kas Bazaar

    We stumbled upon the Kas Bazaar while wandering the streets, and it quickly became one of my favorite little finds.

    The square was full of local vendors selling all kinds of handmade goods—jewelry, pottery, soaps, artwork—you name it. Of course, I couldn’t resist picking up a one-of-a-kind bracelet (I always grab a piece of jewelry from every place we visit).

    The vibe here was super relaxed and local, with a park in the middle, kids running around, and adults gathered at the bars and restaurants lining the edges.

    Colorful neoclassical buildings line the waterfront of Kastellorizo Island, Greece, with boats drifting on the bright blue sea and a hilltop castle flying the Greek flag above.
    Kastellorizo is a Greek Island you can see from Kas. Easy Day Trip!

    8. Kastellorizo Island, Greece Day Trip

    Visiting Kastellorizo Island (also called Meis) was high on my list, but we had to choose between that and scuba diving—and since my husband and I needed one more dive in our logbooks, diving won out.

    That said, if scuba isn’t your thing, I’d totally recommend making the trip.

    It’s just a 20-minute ferry ride from Kas, and it’s known as one of the best day trips in the area.

    Ferries only leave in the morning and return in the late afternoon, making it a super easy and fun full-day Greek adventure.

    FYI: You’ll need your passport for the border crossing, so don’t forget it!

    👉 You Can Book Your Ferry Ticket Here


    Swimmers float in the glowing sapphire waters of the Blue Grotto on Kastellorizo Island, where sunlight illuminates the sea cave’s rocky interior with an otherworldly blue hue.

    9. Blue Grotto

    I can’t not include the Blue Grotto on this list—it’s one of the main reasons I wanted to visit Kastellorizo Island in the first place!

    We didn’t make it there, and I’m honestly still kinda bummed because the photos look incredible. It’s a small sea cave with glowing blue water that you can only access by boat, usually with a local guide once you’re on the island.

    If you decide to take the day trip to this little Greek island, definitely don’t skip the Blue Grotto—it looks like pure magic.

    Kate walks along the curved stone seating of the ancient amphitheater at Antiphellos in Kaş, Turkey, with views of the sea and distant mountains.
    A wide-angle view from the top of the Antiphellos amphitheater in Kaş, Turkey, showcases its semicircular stone seating and a stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea and islands.
    Kate’s husband sits smiling on the stone ledge overlooking the modern town of Kaş, backed by green hills and whitewashed buildings cascading toward the harbor.

    10. Ancient City of Antiphellos and Amphitheater

    The Ancient City of Antiphellos and its amphitheater is such an easy and worthwhile stop while you’re in Kas.

    It’s right on the edge of town—just a five-minute walk from our hotel—and totally free to explore.

    You can climb up the stone steps all the way to the top for stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

    Locals love coming here to do yoga in the mornings or catch the sunset in the evenings, and honestly, I can see why. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a perfect little adventure right in town.

    Traditional wooden boats line the shore of Butterfly Valley in Turkey, where a secluded beach meets towering cliffs and vivid turquoise waters under a hazy mountain backdrop.

    11. Butterfly Valley

    Butterfly Valley is one of those places that feels straight out of a travel magazine, and it’s totally worth adding to your Kas bucket list.

    You can visit the valley and its private beach on a boat tour or by driving about an hour and a half to Oludeniz, where you can hike or take a water taxi down to the valley.

    It’s a beautiful, secluded beach surrounded by steep cliffs, and in the right season, it’s filled with butterflies (hence the name).

    If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the views from the hike down are unreal!

    👉 Book Your Butterfly Valley Tour Here


    Soaring over the brilliant blue waters of Ölüdeniz, Kate paraglides with a guide, with the lush green peninsula and sandbar curving below them.
    Kate and her husband pose at the mountaintop paragliding launch site in Ölüdeniz, surrounded by gear and fellow flyers, with a panoramic mountain backdrop.
    Kate tandem paraglides high above Ölüdeniz’s iconic Blue Lagoon, smiling wide with her arms outstretched over the deep turquoise coastline.

    12. Go Paragliding

    If you’re a bit of a daredevil—or just want to push yourself out of your comfort zone like I did—then you have to go paragliding over the Turkish coast in Oludeniz.

    It was an absolute rush and hands down my favorite excursion in all of Turkey.

    Oludeniz is actually world-famous for paragliding, and people travel from all over just to soar above those turquoise waters (we met a guy from Switzerland who flew in just for this!).

    Take it from me—don’t miss it. The views are unreal and the experience is something you’ll never forget.

    👉 Book Your Paragliding Adventure Here!

    If you are still unsure about paragliding, then read my full experience here: “Everything You Need To Know Before You Go Paragliding in Oludeniz Turkey”


    Kate floats peacefully in the crystal-clear shallows of Small Pebble Beach in Kaş, Turkey, surrounded by smooth rocks and tranquil turquoise water.
    A quiet cove at Small Pebble Beach in Kaş, Turkey, with gentle waves lapping at the pebbled shore and a lone swimmer enjoying the vivid blue sea.

    13. Small Pebble Beach in Kas

    Small Pebble Beach is the most popular beach in Kas, and it’s just a quick five-minute walk from the town center.

    It’s free to access, but since it’s a small cove it fills up fast—so expect to share the space with others.

    There are a few beach clubs along the edge that let you use their sunbeds if you order food or drinks, which is what we did (way better than trying to lay on the pebbles!). It’s a great spot to cool off without having to go far.

    Pro Tip: It’s shaded much of the day, so if you want sunshine while you swim, get here early while the sun shines into the cove.

    Big Pebble Beach in Kaş, Turkey curves around a scenic bay with colorful umbrellas, swimmers in turquoise water, and rugged cliffs framing the serene Mediterranean coast.

    14. Big Pebble Beach

    I can’t mention Small Pebble Beach without giving a shoutout to its big sister—Big Pebble Beach.

    It’s about a 20-minute walk from the center of Kas and is another popular spot, especially for day visitors.

    This beach is set up with sun chairs and umbrellas, making it a bit more comfortable if you plan to stay a while.

    We didn’t end up going because it rained the day we had it planned, but our hotel staff swore it was their favorite beach in town—so I’d say it’s worth checking out if the weather’s on your side!

    Kate flashes a peace sign while sitting on a scooter along the coast of Kaş, Turkey, with turquoise water, rocky cliffs, and a quiet beach in the background.

    15. Rent a Scooter and Cruise The Turquoise Coast

    Besides paragliding, renting a scooter was my husband’s favorite thing we did in Kas—and I have to agree, it was such a fun way to explore.

    We loved the freedom of cruising along the winding coastal road, pulling over at random viewpoints, hidden coves, and little beaches we would’ve totally missed otherwise.

    Pro tip: if you’re riding double, definitely get a scooter with a bit more power—the hills can be steep, and our underpowered scooter really struggled. It’s totally worth spending a few extra bucks for a bigger scooter!

    Ancient Lycian rock-cut tombs are carved into a rugged cliff face at the Myra Ruins near Demre, Turkey, showcasing intricate stone facades under a clear blue sky.

    16. Myra Ruins

    The Myra Ruins are a great day trip from Kas if you’re into ancient history and impressive tombs.

    Located in Demre, about an hour and fifteen minutes from Kas by car, this site was once a major city in the Lycian League. You can explore a beautifully preserved Roman theater and the famous Lycian tombs carved into the cliffside.

    There’s a small entrance fee (around 5–6 USD), and it’s totally worth it for the views and the history.

    👉 Book a Tour of The Myra Ruins Here

    17. Pinara Ruins

    The Pinara Ruins are one of those hidden gems that feel totally off the tourist trail—and that’s what makes them so special.

    Tucked away in the mountains near Fethiye, about two hours from Kas, the site is peaceful, quiet, and surrounded by nature.

    What makes Pinara unique is the sheer number of Lycian tombs carved into the rock face, plus a crumbling but beautiful amphitheater with panoramic views.

    There’s a small entrance fee, and you’ll want sturdy shoes, but if you love ancient sites without the crowds, this one’s for you.

    Rows of white loungers and umbrellas line the golden sands of Ouldeniz Beach in Fethiye as colorful paragliders float through the clear blue sky above the surrounding mountains.

    18. Day Trip to Fethiye

    Fethiye is another great place to visit on the turquoise coast and makes a great day trip from Kas. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Kas and is totally worth the trip.

    Fethiye has a fun mix of local markets, a scenic marina, and cool spots like the rock tombs and the ghost village of Kayaköy. It’s also a great jumping-off point for adventure activities like paragliding or exploring Butterfly Valley, as I’d mentioned earlier.

    Traditional Turkish meal on a checkered table with grilled fish, salad, rice, and bread.
    Baked eggplant dish with shrimp, melted cheese, and potato wedges on a rustic wooden board.

    19. Enjoy The Many Restaurants

    One of the best things to do in Kas is eat!

    This little coastal town is packed with amazing restaurants, and honestly, the food here blew Istanbul and Cappadocia out of the water. It’s super fresh, with a Mediterranean twist and lots of delicious seafood options.

    Here is a list of our favorite places we ate at:

    Kate standing on a boat docked in Kas Harbor, looking out toward the hillside town filled with white houses and moored yachts under a bright blue sky.

    Is Kas Worth Visiting?

    Kas is 100% worth visiting—especially if you’re dreaming of the turquoise waters Turkey is famous for.

    It’s a perfect home base for exploring the Turkish Riviera, with easy access to the best beaches, ancient ruins, and epic coastal adventures.

    The town itself is adorable, with cobblestone streets, cozy cafés, boutique shops, and some seriously good food. And let’s not forget the real locals—the sweetest stray pups you’ll ever meet. They’re well cared for by the community, and if you see a little notch or tag on their ear, it means they’ve been vaccinated. Don’t be afraid to give them some pets and scratches!

    📌 Kas is best known for its turquoise bays, ancient ruins, and laid-back Mediterranean vibe.

    How to Get to Kas

    Flying Into the Nearest Airport

    To get to Kas, you’ll first need to fly into a nearby airport. We were coming from Cappadocia, so we flew into Antalya Airport, which is one of the best-connected airports in Turkey with plenty of domestic flight options from just about anywhere in the country.

    Getting from the Airport to Kas

    Once you land in Antalya, you have a couple of options for getting to Kas—it’s about a 3-hour drive along the coast.

    Option 1: Rent a car and drive yourself. This gives you the freedom to stop along the way at some of the scenic beaches or small towns dotting the coastline. The road is absolutely stunning, especially once you get closer to Kas.

    Option 2 (Our Pick): Book a private transfer. We went with Welcome Pickups, and it was honestly the best choice. Our driver was waiting for us with a sign the moment we stepped out of the airport. He spoke great English, was super friendly, and even gave us his personal number in case we needed help during our stay. The ride was comfortable, easy, and totally stress-free.

    I’ve used Welcome Pickups a few times now and have always had a great experience—I can’t recommend them enough.

    👉 Book Your Transfer Here With Welcome Pickups

    Getting Around Kas

    Getting around Kas is super easy, and honestly, I don’t recommend renting a car because parking is a bit of a nightmare.

    The town is small and walkable, with most beaches, shops, and restaurants just a short stroll away. You really don’t need a car to enjoy everything Kas has to offer right in town.

    If you’re planning to explore more of the coast or want to hit some of the farther beaches, renting a scooter is a fun and affordable option. You can rent it right in the center of the town near the pier. We paid just $25 USD for a half-day and loved the freedom it gave us to discover hidden spots.

    Pro Tip: If you’re renting a scooter and riding double, make sure you get one with a bigger engine to tackle the hills. We didn’t and struggled on the hills!

    Also, most tours also include transfers, so you’re covered there too. For our paragliding trip in Oludeniz, we just hired a local taxi from Kas to take us there and back—easy and quite affordable.

    Bright, minimalist hotel room with white decor and an open balcony door offering a clear view of the Aegean Sea, a small table and chair set visible outside.
    Scenic hotel balcony at Payam Hotel featuring a built-in jacuzzi tub, with panoramic views of Kaş, the Aegean Sea, and surrounding hillside homes.
    Kate in a white robe holding a glass of wine, sitting on a hotel balcony at sunset with a stunning sea view and mountains in the background in Kaş, Turkey.

    Where to Stay

    If you’re wondering where to stay in Kas, let me make it easy for you—Payam Hotel is the place.

    It’s where we stayed during our trip, and it was absolutely fantastic. And I’m not the only one who thinks so—it has tons of five-star reviews online!

    Just a heads-up: Booking.com doesn’t work in Turkey (it’s banned), so I recommend booking through Hotels.com, which worked perfectly for us.

    Payam Hotel

    This boutique hotel has beautiful sea views, a great location within walking distance of the town center, and a fantastic Turkish breakfast included! Our room was bright, super clean, and came with a balcony and Jacuzzi right on the balcony, where we watched epic sunsets from!

    It was everything we wanted for our Mediterranean stay. Highly recommend!

    👉 Check Payam Hotel Availability Here


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      FAQ’s: Visiting Kas

      Still, have a few questions? Here are some quick answers to help you with your planning:

      How long do you need in Kas?

      3 to 5 days is the sweet spot. It gives you enough time to relax, explore the town, hit a few beaches, and squeeze in some day trips without feeling rushed.

      When is the best time to visit Kas?

      May to early October is ideal. The weather is warm, the sea is perfect for swimming, and most tours and restaurants are in full swing.

      Which is better, Kas or Fethiye?

      Kas is quieter, more charming, more affordable and better for laid-back coastal vibes. Fethiye is larger and more touristy, with more nightlife and shopping—but if you want somewhere scenic and relaxed, Kas wins.


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      That’s a Wrap

      And there you have it—my ultimate list of the best things to do in Kas! From stunning beaches and ancient ruins to unforgettable boat tours and delicious seafood, this little coastal town truly has it all.

      To make your trip even easier, don’t forget to grab my freeTurkey Planning Checklist—it includes everything from step-by-step planning to a packing list and an epic bucket list so you don’t miss a thing!

      Catch ya on the next adventure.