Detailed information about the ancient Melanippe cannot be found, because, as can be read on the homepages of the villages Kumluca and Mavikent, there are no ancient sources about this city. It seems that Melanipe's story is closely linked to the nearby ancient city of Gagai.

It is believed that the settlement is of Hellenistic origin and served as a shelter for Cilician pirates in the 1st century BC, as did Phaselis and Olympos. After these were destroyed by the Romans in 77/76 B.C., the place fell into oblivion.

Today the bay of Melanippe is a popular bathing and picnic area for the population of the surrounding villages on Sundays and public holidays.

Byzantine Basilica

In the Acropolis above the bay there are remains of buildings among the lush vegetation. From up there you had a great view of the open sea and could spot prey or attackers from afar.

Fishermen in the shadow of the bay

On hot weekdays the bay offers the local fishermen protection from the scorching sun.

This fisherman has his shadow place ashore

Melanippe is a bit off the beaten track, but easy to find. Coming on the national road D400 from Antalya, take one of the two exits to Adrasan and follow the signs to Yeşilköy, from there to Karaöz. From Karaöz the way to Melanippe is signposted with the usual brown signs.
From Kumluça you can reach Melanippe by going out of town on the D400, direction Antalya, at the last traffic lights turn right towards Mavikent. From here follow the signs to Karaöz and on to Melanippe. You can park directly at the bay.