Kekova Underwater City – Kekova & Demre (Sunken City) Dive Site
Site Overview
Kekova Underwater City is one of Kekova & Demre (Sunken City)'s most remarkable dive sites, offering submerged Lycian sarcophagi, amphorae, stone stairs, and building foundations in protected archaeological zone. The site's healthy marine ecosystem supports diverse fish populations and vibrant underwater formations throughout the diving season, creating an underwater landscape that rewards repeated exploration by both new and experienced divers alike. With warm Mediterranean water temperatures and exceptional visibility depending on conditions and season, Kekova Underwater City provides excellent conditions for underwater exploration across all certification levels throughout the year. The site's diverse topography creates multiple habitat zones supporting different species at various depths, from shallow rocky reefs teeming with colorful fish to deeper sections where larger species patrol the structure looking for prey. Turkey's strategic position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia ensures a unique blend of Mediterranean and temperate marine influences contributing to the vibrant communities found at this location. Nutrient-rich waters sustain abundant filter-feeding invertebrates including gorgonian sea fans, sponges, and colorful soft corals that add spectacular color and texture to the underwater scenery. Whether exploring dramatic walls and pinnacles or observing larger pelagic visitors cruising past the formation, Kekova Underwater City consistently delivers memorable and rewarding underwater experiences for all who dive here.
Dive Briefing
"Begin the dive at the shallowest point of Kekova Underwater City and take a moment to orient yourself before descending along the submerged ancient city ruins with sarcophagi and amphorae. Maintain excellent buoyancy throughout the dive to protect the fragile marine formations and diverse life inhabiting the site. Swim along the formation exploring the various depth zones while observing the diverse habitats and marine species that occupy each zone. Check overhangs, ledges, and crevices for resting moray eels, octopus, and cryptic species that shelter from the current. Pay special attention to the rocky outcrops, sandy patches, and reef edges where smaller species like seahorses, nudibranchs, and frogfish can be found with careful observation. Monitor your depth and remaining NDL carefully throughout the dive and maintain conservative ascent profiles. Keep your dive buddy in visual contact and communicate regularly using standard hand signals. Complete your safety stop at 5 metres while deploying your DSMB before making a controlled ascent to surface."
Signature Marine Life
moray eel
Best: May, June, July
octopus
Best: May, June, July
diverse Mediterranean fish
Best: May, June, July
marine invertebrates
Best: May, June, July
benthic species
Best: May, June, July
Safety & Hazards
- Protected archaeological zones with strict no-touch and no-penetration regulations enforced by authorities
- Fragile ancient structures including amphorae and sarcophagi requiring excellent buoyancy control at all times
- Legal penalties for artifact disturbance or removal requiring full awareness of heritage protection laws
- Boat traffic from tourist vessels near archaeological sites requiring surface marker buoy deployment
- Variable visibility near seabed artifacts requiring careful finning technique to avoid sediment disturbance
Traveler Notes
Who is this for?
Kekova Underwater City is suitable for all certification levels including beginners, offering rewarding encounters with diverse marine life in Turkey's productive waters. Underwater photographers will find excellent opportunities with the diverse topography and abundant subjects, from nudibranchs and frogfish to schooling pelagics and colourful gorgonian fans. The site rewards both wide-angle and macro photography approaches depending on the conditions and subjects encountered. Divers with an interest in marine biology will appreciate the Mediterranean biodiversity on display, while those seeking relaxing reef and wall dives will find calm conditions and beautiful scenery.
For Non-Divers
Non-divers can enjoy beautiful beaches, ancient historical sites, snorkelling, and cultural tours near the dive location.
Quick Stats
Dive Logistics
- Local Dive Center
Photography Info
Best for: wide_angle, macro
Nearby Stay
Dive Resort
Kekova & Demre (Sunken City) • 3km away
Beach Hotel
Kekova & Demre (Sunken City) • 2km away