Baniyas is a coastal city located in the Tartus Governorate of western Syria. It is situated along the Mediterranean coast, positioned approximately 55 km (34 mi) south of Latakia and 35 km (22 mi) north of Tartus.
Historically, the city has been known by several different names, including Balaneais, Balanaea, or Balanea. It was also referred to as Leucas or Leucas-Claudia in ancient times.