Kalkan: Small Group Day Trip to Kekova Island, Demre & Myra

Exploring the Small Group Day Trip from Kalkan to Kekova Island, Demre & Myra

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Kalkan that combines history, natural beauty, and relaxing stops, this tour might be just the ticket. While I haven’t personally joined this exact experience, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect.

What really stands out about this trip is the chance to see the Sunken City of Kekova from the water, and the easy, relaxed pace with multiple stops for swimming and sightseeing. Another highlight is the small group size, which tends to make the whole experience feel more intimate and less rushed—something I always appreciate.

However, a consideration worth noting is that some attractions involve optional entrance fees, which aren’t included in the base price. If you’re planning carefully, that’s easy enough to budget for, but it’s good to keep in mind.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, natural scenery, and laid-back boat rides. It’s especially appealing if you like flexible schedules and prefer smaller groups over large, crowded tours. Perfect for those who want to see a good chunk of the area without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary with stops at Kekova, Demre, Myra, and multiple bays.
• Small group size (max 20 travelers) for a more personal experience.
• Multiple swimming and photo stops in beautiful bays and beaches.
• Solid value with included lunch and activities like snorkeling and floating mats.
• Optional entrance fees for certain attractions like the Castle of Simena and rock tombs.
• Timing and duration: around 11 hours, starting early at 8:30 am, ideal for full-day explorers.

Why You Might Love This Tour

This trip packs a lot into a single day, making it a fantastic way to cover some of Turkey’s most scenic spots without needing to rent a boat or hire a guide yourself. The boat ride itself is a highlight; you’ll love the gentle cruise along the coast, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the rugged shoreline and turquoise waters.

The stops at Kekova’s Sunken City and the Castle of Simena are especially memorable. The Sunken City, with its partially submerged ruins, offers a unique glimpse into ancient life, and you get to see it from the water, which is both scenic and a little mysterious. The Castle of Simena is charming with its ruins and stunning views, and you’ll have enough time to wander around and soak in the atmosphere.

The bays like Esmeralda, Burç, and Gökaya offer peaceful moments to relax, swim, and enjoy the natural setting. The water is cool and inviting, and the calm waters of these bays make for a perfect break from sightseeing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting in Kalkan

The tour kicks off early, around 8:30 am, from Andifli in Kalkan. We loved how easy the pickup process sounds—most travelers find it smooth, and the small group size makes for a friendly, unhurried atmosphere right from the start.

Demre and the Boat Ride

Your first stop is Demre harbor, where a boat awaits. This part of the experience is quite straightforward: you board, and the adventure begins. The boat ride itself is said to be quite comfortable, with plenty of shaded space and a friendly crew. One reviewer even mentioned the boat’s vintage charm, which added character to their day.

Kekova Sunken City

The highlight for many is the trip around the Sunken City of Kekova. You won’t be able to swim here, as it’s a protected site, but cruising past the ruins offers plenty of photo opportunities. The water’s clarity makes for stunning visuals, and you’ll get a sense of how nature and history intertwine here. Expect to spend around 45 minutes enjoying this part of the trip.

Castle of Simena (Kaleköy)

Next, you’ll stop at the quaint village of Kaleköy, known as Simena. Here, you’ll have roughly an hour to explore the hillside ruins, including the castle and a necropolis. While entrance fees are additional (around 4 euros), many find the walk up the hillside worth the effort for the panoramic views. The village itself is pretty laid-back, with boutique shops and cafes—ideal for a quick wander.

Bays for Swimming and Relaxation

The tour then moves to Esmeralda Bay for a lunch and swim break. The setting is peaceful, and the bay’s natural beauty makes it a favorite stop for many. Afterward, you’ll enjoy more swimming in Burç Bay, with its cooler water thanks to natural springs, and Gökaya Bay, known for water sports and stunning scenery. Each stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving plenty of time to relax, take photos, and cool off.

Gökaya Cave and Karemlik Bay

One of the more unique features is Gökaya Cave, formed naturally over time with a distinctive curved entrance. It’s a fun spot to explore if you’re into caves or want some interesting photos. Then, there’s Karemlik Bay, where you can observe the sea turtles in their habitat, a chance to connect with the natural environment on a different level.

Myra and Demre

After the boat tour, the group heads back to Demre port for a visit to the nearby museum, followed by the impressive ruins of Myra. The rock tombs and Roman-style theatre are notable sights, and many travelers say this part adds a gratifying historical dimension to the day. Entrance fees to the tombs are around 13 euros, so keep that in mind if you want to explore fully.

Ending Back in Kalkan

The day wraps up with a final stop back in Kalkan, giving travelers a chance to reflect on their day and enjoy the town’s charm. The entire experience from start to finish is approximately 11 hours, making for a full, fulfilling day that balances adventure, relaxation, and history.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who enjoys water-based adventures, exploring ancient ruins, and relaxing in picturesque bays, this tour hits all those notes. It’s especially appealing if you prefer small group settings where you can ask questions and feel like you’re part of a more personalized experience.

Travelers who value convenience—with transportation, lunch, and snorkelling gear included—will find this a great value. However, if you’re a serious history buff, be prepared for some additional entrance fees if you want to go inside the castle or rock tombs.

It’s also ideal for those who want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning, especially since the tour takes care of all logistics for you. Just bring your swimwear, camera, and sense of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This small-group boat trip from Kalkan offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s stunning coastline, ancient sites, and beautiful bays. The mix of history, natural beauty, and leisurely stops makes it a compelling choice for anyone wanting a day packed with memorable moments.

While not perfect—certain entrance fees are extra, and swimming isn’t permitted in the Sunken City—the overall experience seems to deliver great value for the price, especially considering the included lunch and activities. The positive review mentioning the friendly crew and lovely boat highlights how smoothly the day can go when organized well.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed, and culturally interesting day out that balances sightseeing with downtime, this trip is likely to meet your expectations. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more intimate experience over crowded tours.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who want to swim in all locations?
While swimming is available at several bays, swimming isn’t allowed in the Sunken City of Kekova since it’s protected. In other bays like Esmeralda, Burç, and Gökaya, you can enjoy swimming and cooling off.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending back in Kalkan around late afternoon or early evening.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some attractions like the Castle of Simena and the rock tombs in Myra have additional entrance fees, which are not included in the ticket price.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat cruise, lunch, snorkeling equipment, floating mats, and inflatable rings. It’s a good deal considering the full-day adventure and all the stops.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
The tour provides snorkeling equipment, so you can enjoy exploring underwater features without bringing your own.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-focused, the relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for most travelers, including those with children comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

How many people typically join this tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal and less crowded.

What are the main highlights?
Expect breathtaking views of the sunken ruins, charming villages, peaceful bays, and ancient archaeological sites. The boat ride itself is often described as a highlight.

How much does the optional entrance to the Castle of Simena cost?
About 4 euros per person. It’s worth considering if you want to explore the castle ruins and enjoy the panoramic views.

This trip offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and relaxation. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s worth considering for your Kalkan itinerary.