Kaş and Kalkan sit on the wild western end of the Antalya coast, where the mountains drop straight into the sea. Neither has large resorts; both have small harbours, whitewashed lanes and some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean. In autumn, when the summer visitors have gone and the sea is still warm, they are at their best.
Why autumn is the season here
- The sea stays warm into October, often warmer than in June.
- Visibility under water is excellent - good news for divers and snorkellers.
- Walking and hiking become pleasant again after the summer heat.
- Restaurants and boat trips are still running, but without the summer crowds.
Kaş: diving, kayaking and the harbour
Kaş is one of Türkiye's best-known diving centres, with dive sites for beginners and experienced divers, including wrecks, walls and underwater caves. Sea kayaking over the sunken ruins of Kekova is a highlight, and the harbour, the ancient theatre facing the sea and the Lycian tombs in the town make the evenings easy. On a clear day the Greek island of Meis is visible just offshore.
Kalkan: terraces and quiet evenings
Kalkan, about half an hour west of Kaş, is smaller and quieter, built on a hillside around a little harbour. It is known for its villas with sea-view terraces and its rooftop restaurants. It suits couples and families who want a calm base with good food rather than nightlife.
Beaches between and beyond the towns
- Kaputaş: a small turquoise cove at the foot of a gorge, between Kaş and Kalkan.
- Patara: one of the longest sandy beaches in Türkiye, next to the ruins of ancient Patara and a protected area.
- Kaş peninsula and the town's swimming platforms: rocky shores and ladders straight into deep, clear water.
- Kekova and Üçağız: boat trips to sheltered bays and the castle village of Kaleköy.
What changes in November
From November the season winds down: some hotels, restaurants and boat trips close, the first rain arrives and the evenings get cool. Kaş stays lively all year because many people live there permanently, while Kalkan becomes very quiet. Check opening dates if you travel late in the season.
Getting there from Antalya Airport
Kaş is about 185 km from Antalya Airport, roughly two and a half to three hours along the coast road via Kemer, Kumluca and Demre, and Kalkan is about half an hour further. Some travellers fly into Dalaman instead, depending on flights. We run private transfers from both airports at a fixed price per vehicle, with stops for photos along one of the most scenic roads in the country.