Gokkaya Bay (Kekova): The Giant Pool Hidden by Islands

The largest, most sheltered natural harbor considered the "center of fun" of the Kekova route: Gokkaya Bay.

For Limancepte.com guests on Demre boat rental and Kekova tours, it is the point of "return to life" after the silence of history. This bay, which is sheet-like calm even in stormy weather thanks to the islands in front of it, is the meeting point of both overnight boats and adrenaline seekers.

Here is what you need to know about this massive pool of Kekova, accessible only by sea:

1. A Natural Labyrinth: Sea of Islands

Gokkaya is like an inland sea surrounded by large and small islands rather than a single bay.
Geography: Kişneli Island and Aşırlı Island in front completely protect the bay from the waves of the open sea. Thus, the inside is always calm like a lake. Gliding through the islands with your boat feels like being on a movie set.

2. "Water Sports" Center of Kekova

Tourists filled with history in the Sunken City and Simena wait for this place to release their energy. This is the place where water sports (Ringo, Banana, Jetski) are free and most intensely done in the Kekova region. The laughter rising from the boats passing by while you swim in the middle of the bay is the trademark of this place.

3. Secret Cave: Aşırlı Island Pirate Cave

Right at the entrance of Gokkaya Bay, there is a large sea cave on Aşırlı Island. Although not as big as its namesakes in Alanya, it is a great spot where you can put the bow of your boat into the cave and take photos. It is usually visited just before entering Gokkaya.

5. How to Get There? (Sea Only)

There is no vehicle access to Gokkaya Bay by land. It is an indispensable stop for boats departing from Demre (Çayağzı) Port or Üçağız village.

Gokkaya Bay FAQ

• Are there facilities or restaurants?
  There are no restaurants on the shore. However, in summer, "Floating Markets" sell ice cream and pancakes to boats.
• Can we stay overnight?
  Yes. It is the most popular overnight stop for Blue Cruise boats. Since it is very sheltered, there is no rocking at night.
• Is the sea deep?
  Depth varies. Shores are shallow, middle parts are deep. The water is usually dark blue and emerald green.
• Are there Caretta Carettas?
  Yes. It is one of the feeding grounds for sea turtles. You can see them surfacing to breathe in the early morning.