Things To Do
in Kemer
Kemer is a picturesque resort town on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, framed by the Taurus Mountains and a sparkling turquoise bay. It blends relaxed beaches with a lively marina, offering pleasant promenades, markets, and easy access to nature. The area serves as a gateway to ancient ruins like Phaselis and to dramatic mountain scenery just inland.
Visitors come for a laid-back coastal vibe, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and a mix of beach days and scenic day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Turkish tea and fresh pastries. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Kemer, admiring the blend of modern and ancient architecture. Visit the Kemer Marina to appreciate the stunning views of the yachts and the turquoise sea.
Head to the Kemer Museum to delve into the region's fascinating history, featuring artifacts from ancient Lycia. After your visit, enjoy a delicious lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling local seafood dishes. Spend the afternoon walking along the beautiful promenade, where you can shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.
As the sun sets, make your way to a waterfront lounge for a cocktail, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at a local meyhane (tavern), where you can savor meze dishes paired with raki. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
After breakfast, head to one of Kemer's stunning beaches, such as Moonlight Beach, where you can soak up the sun and relax. Spend the morning swimming in the crystal-clear waters and enjoying beach activities like beach volleyball. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline.
For lunch, indulge in a beachside grill, where you can feast on fresh fish and grilled vegetables. Afterward, participate in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or banana boat rides, suitable for all skill levels. Spend some time lounging on the sand, enjoying the beautiful Mediterranean climate and the stunning backdrop of the Taurus Mountains.
As the day comes to a close, enjoy a beachside dinner at a restaurant with a view of the sunset. Savor local dishes while listening to live music that captures the essence of Turkish culture. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach, admiring the starry sky and the gentle sound of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚆Public transport ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and mountains
- Easy day trips to Phaselis, Olympos, and Yanartaş
- Seasonal crowds can be heavy in summer
- Some hills and coves require walking or taxis
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Ne kadar?" - How much is this?
- "Neredesiniz?" - Where is ...?
- "İyi günler" - Have a good day
Places to Visit in Kemer
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, calm water, and mountain silhouettes create ideal reflections and framed shots at golden hour.
Ancient amphitheaters, aqueducts, and pine-fringed coves provide dramatic historical and nature photography.
From high vantage points, capture sweeping panoramas of the turquoise coast and surrounding forests after the cable car ascent.
Rugged coastline with glowing natural flames at night; cinematic rock formations and sea lights.
Food in Kemer
Kemer Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Turkish flatbread with toppings such as cheese, minced meat, or vegetables, baked until crisp and often shared with friends.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish (like çipura or sea bass) grilled and served with lemon, olive oil, and herbs.
Tiny Turkish dumplings topped with yogurt, garlic, and a spiced butter sauce.
Seasoned meatballs often served with rice, bulgur, and a crisp salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market with fresh produce, olives, cheeses, herbs, and street bites to sample the local flavors.
Casual spots selling simit, gözleme, and quick bites along the seafront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks among friends; modest, polite conversation is appreciated; remove shoes when entering private homes or certain traditional settings.
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering, and speak softly; women may be asked to cover shoulders or heads in some mosques.
Safety
Tipping in Kemer
Ensure a smooth experience
In Turkey, a 5-10% tip is customary in restaurants if service is not included; it's common to round up taxi fares; small tips for hotel staff are appreciated. Cash is often preferred for tips, though some places accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny with high humidity; peak beach season and long days. Bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and book waterfront dining early.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for city strolls, Phaselis visits, and hiking without extreme heat.
Warm days linger while evenings cool; sea remains pleasant for swimming and outdoor activities.
Milder, with some rainfall; fewer crowds and more tranquil coastal walks, plus occasional misty mountain views.
Kemer at Night
Hiking in Kemer
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal and forested trails with views over the sea and ancient sites.
Night hike to the eternal flames along a rugged cliff path near Çıralı.
Slopes around Mount Tahtalı with optional short hikes from cable-car stops.
Airports
How to reach Kemer by plane.
Major gateway to the region, about 60-100 km from Kemer; taxi or shuttle typically takes around 1 hour depending on traffic.
Southwest coast airport farther away from Kemer; approximately 250-300 km away with a longer drive.
Smaller airport farther east; seasonal routes and longer transfer to Kemer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Turkish families and retirees who live year-round in the area.
Large influx of visitors from Europe and the CIS during summer months.
Foreign workers and long-term visitors who stay for seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Snorkeling, diving, jet-skiing, and parasailing along the coast.
Trekking in the Taurus mountains and nearby Lycian Way segments.
Beach volleyball and casual football on many sandy or pebbly shores.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kemer.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy a variety of mezze, salads, grilled vegetables, stuffed peppers, and cheese dishes; ask for olive oil-based preparations and avoid meat-heavy sauces.