Kemer: Antalya’s Holiday Center

Kemer, known as one of the most significant holiday locations in Turkey, earns this title with its mild weather, great sandy beaches, turquoise Mediterranean waters, and many great hotels that offer high-quality service.

Kemer is a highly-preferred summer getaway location for sun-sea-sand people. To relax and ease your mind, visit Kemer with your loved ones and seize your holiday.

History: Kemer was once a quiet fishing village, but after a major development project in the 1980s, it transformed into a popular tourist destination. Despite this modernization, traces of the ancient Lycian civilization can still be found in the surrounding area, including the ruins of the city of Phaselis.

Climate: Kemer enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The sea is warm and inviting for most of the year.

Attractions: Kemer offers a wide variety of attractions for tourists. The town itself has a modern marina, various shopping opportunities, and a vibrant nightlife with clubs and bars. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the many hiking and biking trails in the surrounding mountains, and water sports such as diving and sailing are popular activities. Nearby, the ancient cities of Olympos and Phaselis provide fascinating insights into the area’s history.

Natural Beauty: The area around Kemer is renowned for its natural beauty. Highlights include the pristine beaches of Moonlight Park and Kemer Marina, the stunning views from the summit of Mount Olympos (accessible via cable car), and the Goynuk Canyon which is perfect for hiking.

Kemer’s combination of beautiful natural surroundings, historical sites, and modern amenities makes it an attractive destination for a wide range of travelers.

Kemer is located in the Antalya province of Turkey and getting there is quite straightforward. Here are the common ways to reach Kemer:

By Plane: The nearest major airport to Kemer is Antalya Airport (AYT), which is about 57 km away. This airport is served by numerous international airlines, with direct flights from many European cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi, a bus, or a private transfer service to reach Kemer. The journey takes approximately one to one and a half hours depending on traffic.

By Bus: From Antalya’s main bus station (otogar), there are regular buses to Kemer throughout the day. The bus journey takes about an hour.

By Car: If you’re driving, you can take the D400 highway from Antalya towards the southwest, following the signs for Kemer. The journey should take about an hour.

By Boat: Kemer has a modern marina, so it’s possible to arrive by yacht or boat if you’re sailing along the Turkish Riviera.

What to pack for your trip to Kemer will depend on the time of year you’re visiting and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general suggestions:

Spring and Summer (April to October):

Light Clothing: It’s typically warm and sunny, so bring lightweight clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, dresses, and swimwear.

Sun Protection: Pack a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreens to protect against the strong Mediterranean sun.

Comfortable Shoes: If you’re planning to do any sightseeing or hiking, comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Beach Accessories: Don’t forget a beach towel, swimwear, and maybe some snorkeling gear if you plan to enjoy the beautiful beaches and clear waters.

Evening Wear: Kemer has a lively nightlife, so you might want to pack a few nicer outfits for evenings out.

Autumn and Winter (November to March):

Warmer Clothing: The weather can be cooler, especially in the evenings, so bring some warmer clothes like long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a jacket or coat.

Rain Protection: It’s more likely to rain during these months, so a compact umbrella or lightweight raincoat could come in handy.

Layers: As the weather can be quite variable, clothing that can be layered is a good idea so you can adjust as necessary.

General Essentials:

Travel Documents: Don’t forget your passport, driver’s license, and any necessary visas or travel insurance documents.

Toiletries: Most hotels will provide basic toiletries, but you may want to bring your own, as well as any necessary prescription medications.

Adapter: Turkey uses type F power sockets, so if your devices use different plug types, you’ll need an adapter.

Money: While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always a good idea to have some local currency (Turkish lira) on hand for smaller establishments or tips.

Kemer offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are a few options:

Maxx Royal Kemer Resort: This is an ultra-luxurious 5-star all-inclusive resort that is perfect for families. It features private beaches, indoor and outdoor pools, a wellness center, and several gourmet restaurants.

Orange County Resort Hotel Kemer: This 5-star hotel offers all-inclusive packages. It is designed with a Dutch architectural style and is known for its lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options.

Rixos Sungate: This luxurious hotel offers an all-inclusive experience with a range of restaurants, bars, and activities. It also features a spa, fitness center, and a private beach.

Crystal De Luxe Resort & Spa: This resort is in the center of Kemer and provides an all-inclusive experience with a large outdoor pool area, a spa, and several restaurants.

Hideaway Resort & Spa: This is a 4-star all-inclusive hotel that is a bit more budget-friendly but still offers a great range of amenities, including a private beach, multiple pools, and a spa.

Kemer Holiday Club: This is an affordable, family-friendly resort that offers all-inclusive packages. It features a large outdoor pool, a private beach, and several restaurants.

Kemer, located in Antalya Province on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, has a Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

In the summer months (June to September), the temperatures average between 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F) but can occasionally reach up to 40°C (104°F). These months receive the most sunshine and the least rainfall, with July and August being the hottest.

The winter months (December to February) are mild and rainy with temperatures averaging between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Snow is quite rare but not unheard of.

The transitional seasons, spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November), are mild and relatively wet, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F). These seasons can be a good time to visit for those who prefer cooler temperatures.

Remember that these are average temperatures and actual conditions can vary from year to year. Always check the current forecast before your trip.

The best time to visit Kemer depends on what you’re looking for from your holiday.

If you’re looking to enjoy the beach and water sports, the best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to September. During these months, you can expect hot, sunny weather perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The sea temperatures are also very pleasant during this period.

For sightseeing, exploring historical sites, and hiking, spring (April and May) and fall (October and November) can be the best times. The temperatures are milder compared to the summer, making outdoor activities more comfortable. The natural scenery is also beautiful during these periods, especially in spring when the flowers are in bloom.

Winter (December to March) can be cooler and wetter, but it’s also a time when Kemer is less crowded, and the accommodations can be less expensive. Some people also prefer the winter months for outdoor activities such as hiking to avoid the summer heat.

Remember that the best time to visit can vary depending on personal preferences, so consider what kind of activities and weather you prefer when planning your visit.

Kemer is a seaside resort on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, located in the province of Antalya.

Kemer’s history dates back to ancient times when the region was part of Lycia, one of the most important civilizations of Anatolia. The ruins of the ancient city of Olympos and the eternal flames of Yanartas (Chimera), mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman sources, are situated near Kemer.

In the Middle Ages, the region fell under the rule of the Seljuk Empire, and later the Ottoman Empire. However, for a long time, Kemer remained a small, remote fishing village, largely cut off from the rest of the region due to the high mountains that surround it.

Kemer’s modern history begins in the 20th century when in the 1960s, the 39 km road connecting Kemer to Antalya was opened. This allowed for the development of tourism in the area. The name “Kemer” actually refers to the stone wall built to prevent flooding from the mountains.

In the 1980s and 1990s, large-scale tourism development took place in Kemer, with the construction of numerous hotels, resorts, and other tourist facilities. Today, Kemer is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue sea, vibrant nightlife, and outdoor activities such as hiking and yachting. It’s also a popular destination for cultural tourism due to the many ancient ruins located nearby.

As Kemer is a popular tourist destination rather than a place of major historical or cultural milestones, its “famous firsts” are more related to its development as a resort town. Here are some highlights related to Kemer’s growth and tourism:

Development of Tourism Infrastructure: The 1960s marked a significant turning point for Kemer with the construction of the road connecting it to Antalya. This facilitated access to the town, paving the way for its development as a major tourist destination.

Introduction of Blue Flag Beaches: Kemer is home to numerous “Blue Flag” beaches – an international designation given to beaches that meet high standards for cleanliness, safety, and environmental management. This has greatly enhanced Kemer’s reputation as a premier beach destination.

Establishment of Theme Parks: Kemer houses some of the region’s most exciting and immersive theme parks. For instance, DoluSu Park, one of the largest water parks in the region, offers a myriad of fun-filled water rides and attractions.

Yacht Marina: The establishment of the modern Kemer Marina has made the town a popular destination for yachting and boating. The marina can accommodate hundreds of yachts and provides all the necessary services for sailors and boat owners.

Hiking and Mountain Climbing: Kemer is known for its proximity to the Lycian Way, one of the world’s top long-distance hiking trails. It offers breathtaking views of the coast and mountains and attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.

Music Festivals: Kemer hosts several music festivals throughout the year, attracting national and international performers and artists. The International Kemer Underwater Days (KUD), for instance, includes underwater and beach cleanups, diving competitions, and other water-related activities.

Remember that these are not “firsts” in the sense of world or even national firsts, but rather significant milestones in Kemer’s own history and development as a resort town.

Kemer, despite being primarily known as a resort town, is rich in history and home to several historical places and sites that will capture your interest:

Phaselis Ancient City: An enchanting ancient Lycian city located just a few kilometers from Kemer. Established by the Rhodians in 700 BC, Phaselis offers well-preserved ruins such as a theater, aqueduct, marketplace, and its famous three harbors.

Olympos Ancient City: Another notable Lycian city, Olympos is situated in a beautiful valley. It was a major center for worship for the god Hephaestus (Vulcan), the god of fire and blacksmiths.

Chimera: Also known as Yanartas (Burning Rock), this fascinating natural phenomenon is found close to the ancient city of Olympos. This geological site emits natural gas from the rock, causing flames to burn continuously along the mountainside, which according to ancient myths, was caused by the monster Chimera.

Goynuk Canyon: Not a historical site but a natural wonder that showcases the age-old geological history of the region. It’s an excellent place for trekking and experiencing the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.

Idyros: An ancient city located in Kemer, Idyros was discovered during excavations in 1976. You can see remains of Roman and Byzantine periods including a church, a bath, a city wall, and a necropolis.

Ulupinar Village: This village is located in the mountains near Kemer and is a historical place where you can witness traditional Turkish life and customs. The village is also known for its trout farms.

Tekirova Ecological Natural Park: While not historical in the traditional sense, this park is a great place to witness the region’s natural history and biodiversity.

1. Visit Phaselis: A short drive from Kemer, this ancient Lycian city is a must-see. Stroll through the ruins, enjoy a picnic, and take a dip in the beautiful coves.
2. Take a boat tour: There are numerous daily boat tours that take you to explore beautiful bays, islands, and caves along the coast.
3. Visit Olympos and Yanartas (Chimaera): Another ancient city, Olympos, is just a short trip from Kemer. After visiting the ruins, head to Yanartas (Chimaera), where natural gas leaks from the rock and has been burning for thousands of years.
4. Relax on Moonlight Beach: Kemer’s main beach is a beautiful spot for a day of sun and sea.
5. Visit the Goynuk Canyon: Great for hiking and canyoning, it’s a natural beauty spot that’s not to be missed.
6. Explore the ancient city of Idyros: Discover the remnants of ancient civilizations right in the heart of Kemer.
7. Shop at Kemer’s Monday Bazaar: A fun place to find local products, fresh produce, textiles, and souvenirs.
8. Visit the Nomadic Art Museum: An interesting museum dedicated to the art and culture of the nomadic peoples of the region.
9. Kemer Marina: The marina is a nice place to walk around, with many yachts, boats, and several good restaurants and shops.
10. Kemer Dolusu Park: A great water park for a family day out, with a variety of slides and pools.
11. Go diving or snorkeling: The clear, warm waters off Kemer are perfect for diving and snorkeling.
12. Visit Kemer’s Cultural Center: The center often hosts interesting exhibitions and events.
13. Take a Jeep Safari: Explore the mountainous countryside around Kemer in an off-road vehicle.
14. Explore Tahtali Mountain: Take a cable car up the mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and sea.
15. Experience Kemer’s nightlife: With numerous bars, nightclubs, and discos, Kemer offers vibrant nightlife.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Kemer, Turkey:

Phaselis: An ancient Lycian city located just a short drive away from Kemer. The site includes well-preserved ruins, beautiful beaches, and a museum.

Olympos and Yanartas (Chimaera): An ancient city near Kemer, Olympos offers stunning ruins in a lush valley leading to a beach. Nearby Yanartas is famous for its naturally burning flames, the result of gases seeping out of the rock.

Goynuk Canyon: A stunning natural beauty spot, perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Moonlight Beach: This is Kemer’s main beach, offering white sand, clear water, and plenty of amenities.

Kemer Marina: Here you can enjoy a nice walk, admire the boats, have a meal in one of the many restaurants, or do some shopping.

Tahtali Mountain: Known as “Olympos Beydaglari National Park”, this mountain offers spectacular views of the sea and the surrounding area from its cable car.

Idyros: An ancient city located in the heart of Kemer, offering an insight into the region’s rich history.

Kemer Dolusu Park: A popular water park offering a variety of water slides, pools, and fun for the whole family.

Nomadic Art Museum: A unique museum showcasing the art and culture of the region’s nomadic peoples.

Kemer’s Monday Bazaar: A traditional market where you can buy local produce, textiles, and souvenirs.

Here are some of the best tours you can take in and around Kemer:

Kemer Boat Tours: Spend the day cruising along the beautiful turquoise coastline, stopping at secluded bays for swimming and snorkeling, and enjoying a delicious lunch onboard.

Phaselis and Olympos Tour: Visit the ancient cities of Phaselis and Olympos, marvel at the ruins, enjoy a swim at a beautiful beach, and visit the natural eternal flames at Yanartas (Chimaera).

Jeep Safari: Explore the Taurus Mountains and local villages with a thrilling jeep safari. This typically includes a stop at a local family home for a traditional Turkish lunch.

Goynuk Canyon Tour: Spend a day hiking through the stunning Goynuk Canyon, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and experiencing the natural beauty of the area.

Tahtali Mountain Cable Car Tour: Ride a cable car to the top of Tahtali Mountain and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea.

Antalya City Tour: Though a bit farther away, a day trip to Antalya can let you explore the historic Old Town (Kaleici), visit impressive landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate and the Antalya Museum, and take a relaxing boat tour from the old harbor.

Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour: Another great day trip option is to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pamukkale, famous for its white terraces filled with thermal waters, and the ancient city of Hierapolis.

Even though Kemer is a popular summer destination with its beautiful beaches and warm Mediterranean climate, it also has a number of attractions that can be enjoyed during the winter months. Here are some suggestions:

Phaselis Ancient City: With its unique combination of ancient ruins and natural beauty, Phaselis is a perfect place to visit year-round.

Tahtali Dagi (Mount Olympos): Take the Olympos Teleferik (cable car) up to the top of this mountain for breathtaking panoramic views. In winter, you may even find snow at the top.

Antalya City: Winter is a great time to visit the nearby city of Antalya, and explore its historic old town (Kaleici), museums, and indoor attractions like the Antalya Aquarium.

Goynuk Canyon: Enjoy a winter hike in Goynuk Canyon. The views of the canyon are stunning in winter, and there will be fewer tourists.

Thermal Spas: Turkey is famous for its thermal baths. While there aren’t any in Kemer itself, you could take a day trip to the nearby regions that have thermal spas.

Visit Local Markets: The local markets in Kemer and nearby towns are open year-round, offering fresh produce, spices, textiles, and more.

Summer is the prime time to visit Kemer, as the Mediterranean climate provides plenty of warm and sunny days. The town and surrounding areas come alive with outdoor activities, beach days, and nightlife. Here are some top places to visit in Kemer during the summer:

Beaches: Kemer is well-known for its stunning turquoise-blue sea and beautiful beaches. Moonlight Beach and Kemer Beach are both popular and have facilities nearby.

Phaselis Ancient City: An ancient Roman city with beautiful ruins, nestled in a forest and surrounded by beaches.

Olympos and Yanartas (Chimaera Flames): Visit the ancient city of Olympos and at night, trek up to Yanartaş to see the natural flames that have been burning for thousands of years.

Goynuk Canyon: For adventure seekers, Goynuk Canyon offers trekking, canyoning, and rafting.

Boat Trips: Take a daily boat trip to explore the beautiful coastline of Kemer and visit secluded beaches.

Tahtali Dagi (Mount Olympos): A cable car ride to the top of Tahtali Dagi provides you with a panoramic view of the entire region, including the coastline.

Nightlife: Kemer has a vibrant nightlife, especially during the summer months, with many bars, clubs, and beach parties.

Yoruk Park: This open-air museum gives you a glimpse into the life of the Yoruk people, the nomadic Turks who used to live in this region.

Diving: The clear blue waters around Kemer make it an excellent location for diving and snorkeling.

Here are some of the best beaches in Kemer:

Moonlight Beach and Park (Ayisigi Beach): Located right in the heart of Kemer, this beach is popular due to its easy accessibility and the park nearby. The beach is a combination of sand and pebble.

Kemer Beach: This is the main beach in Kemer, located right in front of the town. It’s a pebbly beach with clear, blue water.

Phaselis Beach: Phaselis is an ancient Lycian city and the site has two beautiful small beaches. The beaches are located in a national park, so there’s a small entrance fee.

Adrasan Beach: About an hour’s drive from Kemer, Adrasan Beach is a stunning sandy bay surrounded by forest-covered mountains.

Olympos Beach: Located next to the ancient ruins of Olympos, this beach is a mixture of sand and pebble with stunning clear blue waters.

Cirali Beach: This beach is known for its length (over 3 kilometers), its crystal-clear waters, and its proximity to the Yanartas (flaming rock), home to the eternal flames of the Chimaera.

Tekirova Beach: Tekirova is a sandy beach with clear waters located in the resort area of Tekirova.

Beldibi Beach: Beldibi has a long pebbly beach with clear water. It’s located in the resort area of Beldibi.

Goynuk Beach: It’s a beautiful sandy beach in the Goynuk region, with several resorts nearby.

Kemer, like the rest of Turkey, boasts a rich and diverse culinary tradition. While in Kemer, you can indulge in various traditional dishes which are a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Here are some you should try:

Kebabs: Kemer offers a variety of kebabs, including the famous ‘Doner Kebab’ and ‘Adana Kebab’, which is a spicy minced meat kebab on skewers.

Meze: This is a collection of small dishes served as appetizers before the main course. They can range from salads and dips to stuffed vegetables and seafood.

Pide: Often dubbed Turkish pizza, pide is a boat-shaped flatbread topped with various ingredients like cheese, minced meat, spinach, and eggs.

Lahmacun: This is a thin piece of dough topped with minced meat, vegetables, and herbs, then baked.

Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. It is a must-try dessert.

Turkish Tea and Turkish Coffee: Both are integral parts of Turkish hospitality and have unique brewing methods and serving traditions.

Seafood: Given Kemer’s coastal location, seafood is a staple. Grilled fish, calamari, and prawns are typical offerings at local restaurants.

In Kemer, you can find a wide variety of restaurants catering to different tastes, from local Turkish cuisine to international dishes. Here are some of the best ones to consider:

Casa De Flor Restaurant & Cafe: This place offers a variety of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, served in a cozy environment with friendly staff.

Captain Pirate Restaurant Cafe & Bar: With its unique pirate-themed decor and fantastic sea views, this restaurant provides a fun and friendly dining experience. They serve a variety of dishes, including seafood, Turkish cuisine, and international options.

Merhaba Garden Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish dishes and grilled meats. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, perfect for a casual meal.

No 7 Aspava: This is a great place if you’re looking for authentic Turkish cuisine. They are especially known for their kebabs and mezze.

Cekmen Hotel & Restaurant: Located in a hotel, this restaurant offers a diverse menu with both Turkish and international dishes. The outdoor seating area is a great place to enjoy a meal in the warmer months.

Leon Restaurant: If you’re looking for a mix of Turkish and international cuisine, this place is worth a visit. The ambiance is relaxed and the staff are friendly and accommodating.

Santana Dondurma: For those with a sweet tooth, this place offers some of the best ice creams in Kemer.

Kemer is part of the Antalya region in Turkey, which is known for its unique cultural and natural gifts. Here are some popular gifts or souvenirs you could consider from Kemer:

Turkish Delight (Lokum): This is a popular Turkish confectionery treat, made from sugar and starch and often flavored with rosewater, lemon, or mint. It’s often packaged beautifully for gifting.

Turkish Tea or Coffee: Turkish tea and coffee are famous worldwide. You can buy special tea leaves or coffee grounds, and even pick up a traditional tea set or coffee pot.

Olive Oil and Spices: Turkey is known for its quality olive oil and aromatic spices. They make great gifts to bring back the taste of Turkey.

Ceramics and Pottery: Beautifully painted bowls, mugs, and plates are commonly sold in local markets. They make for unique gifts or souvenirs.

Turkish Carpets or Kilims: While this might be a pricier gift, Turkish carpets and kilims are known for their quality and intricate designs. Smaller rugs or cushion covers might be more manageable as gifts.

Jewelry: There are plenty of shops selling beautiful Turkish jewelry in Kemer. Silver and gold pieces, often with turquoise, are very popular.

Handicrafts: Handmade soaps, embroidered items, or hand-woven textiles can also be great gifts that support local artisans.

Leather Goods: Turkey is known for its quality leather goods. You might find belts, wallets, or bags that could make a good gift.