SIMENA (KALEKOY): A UNIQUE DESTINATION IN TURKEY.
There’s a certain magic to arriving somewhere by boat. We approached Simena from around the coast, having bartered to get a ride on the tiniest of motorboats. When I say tiny, I mean it. There were moments when we thought we might just start tipping slowly into the water. As we turned into the cove, we could see Simena peeping out from behind he rocks.
We had ended up in this beautiful area of the Turkish coast, as we were walking the Lycian Way. A long distance path that skirts this historic area.
Simena, known today as Kaleköy, is a truly fascinating place. As it is accessible by foot or boat only, it is quiet and unspoiled. A small strip of land is balanced precariously between sea and rock, it feels like an idyllic escape.
In this guide, we’ll share why Simena is so special, what it’s known for, and how to make the most of your visit.
Why is Simena so unique?
Simena is unique, partly because it feels frozen in time. The village is car-free, it’s tiny streets winding between ancient ruins and colourful bougainvillea. Its isolation, accessible only by water or a steep hike, gives it a rare tranquillity that’s hard to find along the Turkish coastline, which can be associated with high rise hotels.
At its heart is the Simena Castle, a small but captivating fortress perched on a hilltop, offering sweeping views over the Kekova Bay. Below the village lies a submerged world: the sunken ruins of ancient Lycian settlements, visible through the crystal-clear water.
Simena’s charm lies in its simplicity. Days here are slow and sun-drenched, filled with swims in the warm sea and evenings in softly lit restaurants.
What is Simena known for
1/ The Castle and Lycian Sarcophagi
Simena’s most iconic landmark is its castle, a relic of the Lycian era later used by the Byzantines. A short but steep hike through the village leads you to its gates, and the views from the top are just about worth it.
Within the castle, you’ll find a small ancient theatre, one of the smallest Lycian theatres ever discovered, carved into the rock.
Dotting the hillside and waterfront, you’ll notice Lycian sarcophagi, some submerged in the water and others standing sentry-like above the village. These tombs are a reminder of Simena’s rich history, and their timeless beauty adds to the village’s allure.
2/ The Sunken City of Kekova
Perhaps Simena’s most unique feature is its proximity to the Sunken City of Kekova, a partially submerged ancient Lycian settlement destroyed by earthquakes centuries ago. While you can’t swim or snorkel in the protected area, boat tours offer a glimpse of underwater ruins, from stone walls to ancient staircases.
Things to do in Simena
Here are some of the best things to do in Simena.
1/ Climb to Simena Castle
The climb to the castle is a must. The path winds through the village, past flowering trees, friendly cats, and a few makeshift stalls selling handmade jewellry and trinkets. Once at the top, take your time exploring the fortress and its surroundings.
The views are unparalleled, this is the spot to snap those postcard-worthy photos of Kekova Bay and beyond.
Entrance costs the equivalent of about £3.
2/ Take a Boat Tour to the Sunken City
One of the best ways to experience Simena is by taking a boat tour. These excursions usually include stops at nearby islands, opportunities to swim in secluded coves, and a guided explanation of the Sunken City of Kekova.
Some tours even offer kayaks, allowing you to paddle above the ruins for a closer look. Just be sure to respect the no-swimming rule in the protected archaeological zone.
3/ Swim in the Turquoise Waters
The waters around Simena are some of the clearest and most inviting on the Turkish coastline. Whilst there isn’t a beach as such, you can swim off the village’s small jetty or find a hidden cove where you can have the sea to yourself.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline at your own pace.
4/ Wander Through the Village
Strolling through Simena’s narrow pathways is an experience in itself.
Take your time to soak in the details, from the pastel-painted doors to the intricate stonework of ancient ruins.
5/ Enjoy a Sunset Dinner by the Water
The evenings in Simena are really quite magical. As the sun sets over Kekova Bay, the waterfront restaurants come alive with soft candlelight and the scent of freshly grilled fish.
Try the grilled octopus or stuffed mussels, paired with a glass of chilled Turkish white wine or as we always opted for, a cold glass of Raki.
We ate at Teras Paradise Guest House, the owners pulled up a table especially for us, right on the waterfront. We spent hours just taking in the stunning light on the water and the special atmosphere, whilst drinking a few glasses of Raki.
Where to stay in Simena
Accommodations in Simena are charming and low-key, perfectly suited to the village’s tranquil vibe. It tends to be a little more expensive than other areas of the coast, but each place is so special that it is worth it.
Most of the accommodation is best booked directly in contact with the owners, rather than any booking sites.
We stayed at Kirazli Ev, an absolutely stunning pension run by very friendly hosts. They even brought us tea and medicine when one of us was struck down with a cold. Our terrace had a sea view and the room was very comfortable. We paid around 2000 TL (around £50.)
Although I cannot talk highly enough of Kirazli Ev, a more luxurious choice may be be Omur Pansiyon or the seafront hotel Mehtap Kaleköy Otel.
How to get to Simena
Reaching Simena is part of the adventure, as it’s accessible only by foot or boat.
On a day trip
As there isn’t a lot of accommodation in Simena, many people choose to visit on a day trip to see the village and Kekova ruins. You can book a day trip by boat from many of the nearby towns – Kas, Kalkan or Demre.
By Boat
The most common way to reach Simena is by boat from the nearby village of Üçağız. Small ferries and private water taxis make the short journey regularly, and the ride itself is a scenic highlight. Do ask your hotel if they can provide a boat shuttle, as many of them do. Or they may happen to be coming to the town for supplies and could collect you.
By Foot
For hikers, Simena is a rewarding stop along the Lycian Way. The trail can be challenging in places, but the approach to Simena. You can also walk partially to Simena and then take a boat for the final stretch.
By Car (to Üçağız)
If you’re driving, park your car in Üçağız and take a boat to Simena from there. The drive to Üçağız from Kaş or Demre is straightforward.
Where to next?
You can find more of our guides to visiting Turkish coastal towns and cities below.
- Is Antalya worth visiting? The best things to do
- Best things to do in Kas
- A guide to visiting Cirali, an underrated Turkish town.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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