Kemer, one of Antalya’s most popular tourist destinations, attracts thousands of visitors each year with its turquoise sea, pine-covered beaches, and rich historical heritage. In this Mediterranean town where nature blends with a warm coastal vibe, you’ll find more than just sunbathing spots—there are many natural wonders and historical sites worth discovering. The top places to visit in Kemer include secluded bays, ancient ruins, hiking trails, and lively beaches.
If you want to make the most of your trip, we’ve listed the best spots to visit in and around Kemer, complete with short descriptions to help guide your travel plans.
Places to Visit in Kemer Center
The central part of Kemer offers a mix of beach, shopping, and cultural stops, all within a short distance for most travelers.
This town isn’t just about its surrounding natural attractions—Kemer’s town center also offers plenty of entertainment and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy themselves without even leaving the heart of the city.
1. Kemer Marina
Kemer Marina is one of the liveliest areas in town, featuring seafront walking paths, cafés, and restaurants.
Ideal for those who want to get a closer look at luxury yachts and boats.
Evening walks along the coast are especially enjoyable.
2. Moonlight Beach and Moonlight Park
Moonlight Beach (Ayışığı Plajı) is one of the most popular places for swimming in central Kemer.
Moonlight Park, located right next to the beach, offers a picnic-friendly area under pine trees.
No Regrets Booking Advice
It’s a great place to enjoy both the sea and nature in one stop.
3. Kemer Bazaar and Atatürk Boulevard
The Kemer Bazaar is a lively area filled with souvenir shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
Located along Atatürk Boulevard, it becomes a hub for evening strolls.
It’s a popular choice for discovering local flavors, traditional goods, and summer shopping.
4. Kemer Clock Tower and Main Square
The Kemer Clock Tower stands at the heart of the town and serves as a popular meeting point.
The surrounding open areas often host events and festivals during the summer.
You can relax on the square’s benches or enjoy a cool drink in one of the nearby cafés.
5. Yörük Park
Located within walking distance of central Kemer, Yörük Park is a thematic park that introduces visitors to traditional Turkish nomadic culture.
It features authentic tents, nature trails, and sea views, offering a unique and atmospheric setting.
Perfect for those looking for a cultural experience in addition to their beach holiday.
Best Beaches in Kemer: Where to Swim
Kemer’s beaches are a key part of the Mediterranean holiday experience, known for their crystal-clear waters, pine-covered coastlines, and a variety of options that suit different preferences.
Easily accessible from the town center, these beaches offer both paid and free areas. Whether you’re a family with kids, a solo traveler looking for peace, or someone interested in water sports, there’s something for everyone. Here are the best places to swim in Kemer:
1. Ayışığı Beach (Moonlight Beach)
Known as Kemer’s main beach and reachable by foot.
With fine sand and clean waters, it’s ideal for families with children.
Moonlight Park, located just behind the beach, provides shaded relaxation areas.
Offers sunbed and umbrella rentals, along with cafés and shower facilities.
2. Moonlight Bay (Ayışığı Koyu)
Considered an extension of Ayışığı Beach but typically quieter.
The water is deeper and rockier, making it more suitable for experienced swimmers.
A great choice for a nature-filled swimming experience.
3. Kiriş Beach
Located about 5 km from Kemer center.
Features both private hotel sections and public beach areas.
The sea is clear and mostly pebbly—water shoes are recommended.
Ideal for those seeking a quiet and clean beach.
4. Phaselis Beach (Next to the Ancient City)
A unique experience for those who want history and sea combined.
After entering the ancient city, several tree-lined coves lead to the beach.
The water is very clear and calm, perfect for those who want to swim in a natural setting.
Entrance fee required; camping and picnicking are also possible.
5. Çıralı Beach
Located about 30 minutes from Kemer, Çıralı stands out for its natural and protected setting.
A nesting ground for Caretta caretta sea turtles, this beach is under environmental protection.
Known for its sandy coastline, clear water, and peaceful atmosphere.
You can bring your own towel and enjoy the free public areas.
6. Tekirova Beach
Located south of Kemer, Tekirova is mostly known for its luxury resorts, but there’s also a public beach available.
The sea is crystal clear and pebbly.
Offers excellent underwater visibility, ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Kemer’s Natural Attractions and Scenic Spots
Kemer’s natural beauty offers a wide range of experiences for visitors looking to explore both land and sea in the Mediterranean. With towering mountains, forest trails, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, Kemer is much more than a typical beach town. Here are the best places to immerse yourself in nature around Kemer:
1. Göynük Canyon
Located 13 km from Kemer.
Popular for trekking, ziplining, rafting, and nature walks.
The trails through the forest, turquoise waters, and rock formations are visually stunning.
Entry requires a fee, and equipment rental is available.
2. Olympos Cable Car – Mount Tahtalı
Mount Tahtalı is one of the highest peaks near the Mediterranean, standing at 2,365 meters.
The Olympos Cable Car takes about 10 minutes to reach the summit.
Offers breathtaking views of Antalya Bay and Kemer’s coast from above.
Sunrise and sunset times provide the most spectacular scenery.
3. Ulupınar Waterfalls and Trout Farms
Located between Kemer and Çıralı, Ulupınar is known for its cool natural springs and riverside restaurants.
Enjoy dining over the stream under lush green trees.
A perfect cooling escape during the hot summer months.
4. Yanartaş (Chimera)
Near Çıralı, Yanartaş features natural flames emerging from the rocks.
These eternal fires have been burning for centuries, offering a mystical experience.
Best viewed after dark with a flashlight—the atmosphere is unforgettable.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the trail is steep.
5. Alacasu Cennet Bay
One of the rare bays that remain untouched.
Surrounded by pine trees with calm and clear waters.
Ideal for picnicking, swimming, and camping.
Accessible by car, but the final stretch is a forest road, so drive carefully.
6. Beydağları Coastal National Park
Encompasses the mountainous areas around Kemer.
Offers excellent routes for trekking and nature walks.
Rich in endemic plant species and ideal for nature photography with trails overlooking the sea.
Kemer’s Holiday Resorts: Which Area Suits You?
Kemer’s resorts cater to various travel styles with different accommodation, beach, and activity options.
Some areas attract those seeking tranquility and nature, while others are known for luxury hotels, vibrant nightlife, or family-friendly settings. Here are the most popular resorts around Kemer and their key features:
1. Çamyuva
One of the closest resorts to Kemer center, about 10 minutes by car.
Filled with mid- to large-sized hotels.
The sea is clear, the beach is pebbly, and there are wide walking paths.
Suitable for both peace-seekers and those who want some activity.
2. Tekirova
Located south of Kemer, famous for luxury resorts.
Very close to Phaselis Ancient City and several nature trails.
Beaches often have Blue Flag status and the water is very clean.
Ideal for families and nature lovers.
3. Beldibi
One of the first resort towns on the Antalya-Kemer road.
Convenient access to both Antalya city center and Kemer.
Offers more budget-friendly hotels and apartments.
Generally provides a peaceful and calm atmosphere.
4. Göynük
Located 7 km from Kemer center.
Known for Göynük Canyon, making it great for outdoor activities.
Hotels often boast views of the sea, mountains, and forests.
Ideal for families, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation.
5. Kiriş
Just 5 km from Kemer, easily accessible.
Known for clear waters and large hotels.
Beaches are pebbly and mostly owned by the hotels.
A good option for those who want comfort during their stay.
6. Olympos & Çıralı
Located further south, about 35–40 km from Kemer center.
Popular among travelers looking for nature, history, and simplicity.
Known for bungalows, guesthouses, and eco-accommodations.
Home to Caretta caretta sea turtle nesting grounds; the sea is natural and protected.
7. Adrasan
Located beyond Çıralı, famous for its quiet atmosphere.
The sea is shallow and sandy, making it great for families with kids.
Popular for hiking, fishing, and boat tours.
A favorite among those seeking a peaceful holiday.
Ancient Cities and Historical Sites of Kemer
The ancient cities in Kemer offer a mix of cultural and natural richness for those who want to witness the region’s thousands of years of history. These sites, marked by traces of the Lycian civilization, also stand out with their scenic, natural surroundings. Here are the top historical places to explore in and around Kemer:
1. Phaselis Ancient City
Located about 12 km from Kemer center.
Known as an ancient port city; its three harbors are still visible.
Visitors can explore structures like the agora, baths, theatre, and aqueducts.
With its seaside location, it offers a unique mix of history and swimming.
Admission is charged, and Museum Pass is accepted.
2. Olympos Ancient City
Around a 40-minute drive from Kemer.
Famous for its ancient ruins immersed in nature.
You’ll find temples, sarcophagi, and theatre remains along tree-covered paths and a river.
Walking access to the beach makes it one of the rare places combining history and sea.
It is also a nesting ground for Caretta caretta sea turtles.
3. Idyros Ancient City
Located just behind Moonlight Park, near Kemer center.
Remains from the Byzantine period and ancient church walls are visible.
Free to enter and open-air.
One of the few historical sites situated so close to the town center.
4. Gedelme Castle and Ancient Settlement
About 18 km northwest of Kemer.
A Byzantine-era castle located within a forested area.
Natural caves and hiking trails are nearby.
Ideal for combining nature walks with historical exploration.
5. Rhodiapolis Ancient City (near Kumluca, close to Kemer)
Roughly an hour’s drive from Kemer, near Kumluca.
Features Lycian-period remains such as a theatre, agora, and temples.
Less visited than other ancient cities, making it a peaceful and quiet alternative.
A meaningful stop for those particularly interested in archaeology.
Day Trips and Activities in Kemer
Day tours from Kemer allow you to explore the stunning nature and exciting experiences outside the hotel grounds. These tours are ideal for those staying in Kemer who want to enjoy the outdoors, cool off by the sea, or boost adrenaline with adventure activities.
Here are the most popular day trips and activities in Kemer:
1. Boat Tours (Coves and Blue Cruise)
Depart from Kemer Marina, sailing to beautiful nearby coves.
Stops include Phaselis Cove, Paradise Bay (Cennet Koyu), and Mehmet Ali Bükü, with swim breaks.
Some tours include lunch and onboard entertainment.
Options range from family-friendly boats to party-themed cruises.
2. Göynük Canyon Tours
Includes nature hikes, ziplining, and canyon crossing.
A day full of adventure with cool waters, narrow passages, and forest views.
Most tours come with equipment rental and guide service.
3. Rafting at Köprülü Canyon
Early morning departure to Köprülü Canyon National Park.
The rafting course suits both beginners and experienced rafters.
A full-day tour with lunch and transportation included.
4. ATV and Jeep Safari
Off-road tours on forest trails, perfect for adventure seekers.
Commonly held around Çamyuva, Göynük, and nearby natural spots.
Stops at scenic viewpoints with a guide leading the route.
5. Tahtalı Mountain Cable Car (Olympos Teleferik)
Ascend one of the tallest peaks close to the sea via cable car.
Enjoy cool air and panoramic views at the summit.
Sunset tours are particularly popular for the spectacular lighting and photos.
6. Diving Tours
Daily diving excursions off Kemer’s coast for underwater exploration.
Options available for first-timers and licensed divers.
Dives are led by instructors at sites with corals and sunken ships.
7. Biking and Trekking Tours
Held in the Beydağları Mountains behind Kemer.
Guided nature walks include endemic plants and scenic viewpoints.
Gentle cycling tours are available and great for families.
