Antalya Airport to Kemer Transfer

About Kemer – History, Location & Travel Guide

History of Kemer

The history of Kemer dates back to 690 BC. The ancient city of Phaselis, located just 15 km from Kemer town center, was founded by Oleios I and became one of the most important harbor and trade centers of its time. Many historical remains of Phaselis have survived to the present day.

Another remarkable landmark is Gedelma Castle, which dates back to the Roman era, as well as the ruins of Idyros (Idropolis) in the town center, proving that Kemer was a significant maritime and commercial hub from the 3rd century AD onward.

Kemer came under Turkish rule in the 12th century. Although the area remained sparsely populated for centuries, permanent settlement increased in the early 1900s, and Kemer officially regained its status as a residential town in 1910.
Kemer became a district in 1990, and the district governor’s office started operating in 1991.

Geography, Climate & Population

Kemer is located 43 km west of Antalya, at the foothills of the Western Taurus Mountains, stretching along a 46 km coastline. The district is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the east and mountains and forests to the west.

• Total area: 53,483 km²

• Forest coverage: approx. 45,000 hectares

• Elevation in town center: 15 meters above sea level

• Average 300 sunny days per year

Kemer has a Mediterranean climate:

• Summers are hot and dry

• Winters are mild and rainy

Sea water temperature ranges between 10–12°C in winter and 27–29°C in summer, allowing swimming for up to 8 months a year.

According to 2019 data, Kemer’s population is approximately 46,000.

Administrative Structure

Kemer district includes:

• Çamyuva, Göynük and Tekirova towns

• Beycik, Kuzdere, Ovacık and Ulupınar villages

Coastal settlements are mainly located along the shoreline, while inland villages are surrounded by mountains and forests. Due to administrative reforms, Beldibi was incorporated into Kemer as a neighborhood.

Social Life & Local Lifestyle

As a major tourism destination, most residential and commercial buildings in Kemer are modern, well-maintained, and built with reinforced concrete structures. Property owners generally take great care of maintaining their buildings.

During the tourism season (May–October), Kemer becomes very lively, hosting numerous cultural events, festivals, and entertainment activities organized by municipalities and tourism facilities.
Outside the season, daily life is calmer.

High tourism income has led to increased demand for housing, causing higher rental and property prices, especially during peak season.

Economy of Kemer

Until the early 1980s, Kemer’s economy was mainly based on agriculture and livestock, with citrus farming, pomegranates, and greenhouse cultivation as key income sources.

After being declared a tourism development area in 1987, tourism quickly became the main economic driver. Many agricultural lands were converted into tourism facilities, and today tourism dominates the local economy, although limited agricultural activities still continue.

Tourism in Kemer

Tourism is the backbone of Kemer’s economy. The district hosts over 180 licensed accommodation facilities, including:

• Luxury 5-star hotels

• Holiday villages

• Boutique hotels

• Apartments and pensions

Kemer is also home to over 110 travel agencies, offering a wide range of services and excursions.

Popular attractions include:

• Çıralı & Yanartaş (Eternal Flames)

• Tahtalı Mountain Cable Car

• Eco Parks and nature reserves

• Yörük Park (Open-Air Folklore Museum)

Alternative Tourism & Yörük Park

One of Kemer’s most unique attractions is Yörük Park, often described as a “Living Open-Air Folklore Museum.” Located near the marina, the park showcases the traditional nomadic Yörük culture, which has nearly disappeared over time.

Visitors can experience authentic tents, local food, and panoramic views of Kemer Marina and Moonlight Beach, making it a must-visit attraction for cultural tourism lovers.

Transportation & Access

Until the 1960s, Kemer was only accessible by sea. With the development of the Southern Antalya Tourism Project, modern roads and infrastructure transformed Kemer into one of Turkey’s top coastal destinations.

Today:

• Regular buses run every 10 minutes from Antalya Bus Terminal

• Scenic coastal roads connect Kemer to nearby resorts such as Göynük, Çamyuva, Tekirova, Beldibi and Çıralı

• Private transfer services from Antalya Airport to Kemer offer the most comfortable and fastest option, especially for tourists arriving late at night or with luggage

Why Kemer is a Perfect Holiday Destination

• Stunning Mediterranean coastline

• Rich history and ancient cities

• Luxury resorts & vibrant nightlife

• Easy access from Antalya Airport

• Ideal for families, couples, and adventure seekers