Kaş is a small harbour town on the Lycian coast with whitewashed houses, bougainvillea, a Roman theatre facing the sea and the Greek island of Kastellorizo (Meis) floating just offshore. It has no big resorts and no long sandy beaches, which is exactly why people love it: the accommodation is mostly small hotels, pensions and villas, and the swimming is from rocks and platforms into very clear water.
Where to stay
Kaş town
The old town around the harbour and Uzun Çarşı is full of restaurants, bars and small boutique hotels within walking distance of everything. Good if you don’t want to drive. Rooms can be small and some streets are lively at night.
Çukurbağ peninsula
The long peninsula west of town is lined with hotels and villas, many with sea-view terraces, pools and private swimming platforms. It is quieter, with sunset views towards Meis, but you will need a car, taxi or dolmuş to reach town.
Hillside villages
Villages above Kaş, such as Çukurbağ village on the plateau and those towards Gömbe, offer stone villas with pools and mountain views. Cooler at night in summer and very peaceful.
What to do
- Diving and snorkelling: Kaş is one of Turkey’s best diving centres, with clear water, wrecks and underwater caves.
- Kekova: boat trips over the sunken ancient city and to the castle village of Kaleköy (Simena).
- Kaputaş beach: a famous turquoise cove on the road towards Kalkan.
- Meis (Kastellorizo): a short ferry ride to the Greek island; check passport and visa requirements.
- The Lycian Way: sections of the long-distance trail pass near Kaş.
Seasons
May–June and September–October are ideal. July and August are hot and busy. Kaş is lively all year compared with resort towns, and diving runs from spring to late autumn.
Getting there
Dalaman (DLM) is about 2–2.5 hours away by car and Antalya (AYT) about 3–3.5 hours. Both have shuttle buses in summer, and many hotels can arrange transfers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kaş good for families?
Yes, but without sandy beaches; families often prefer hotels with pools and shallow platforms.
Kaş or Kalkan?
Kaş is more bohemian with a stronger local life; Kalkan is quieter and more villa-focused. See Kalkan.
Do I need a car?
Not if you stay in town; it helps if you stay on the peninsula or in the hills.
