From Kas: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Turkey’s stunning Lycian coastline, this guided sea kayaking tour in Kekova might catch your eye. It offers a chance to paddle alongside ancient ruins, enjoy breathtaking views, and visit iconic sights like the Sunken City and Simena Castle—all in a manageable half-day adventure. We’ve looked into what travelers generally love about this trip, along with some considerations to keep in mind before booking.

Two aspects that stand out are the incredible scenery—think turquoise waters and historic ruins—and the knowledgeable guides who keep the experience both fun and safe. On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable with physical activity or prone to sun exposure, this might be a bit tiring, especially if the wind picks up. But overall, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want an active, scenic day out on the water.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and culture, enjoy being outdoors, and want to see Kekova from a different perspective. It’s also good for those who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and are looking for a small-group experience with personalized attention.

Key Points

• Scenic Paddling: Paddle along the ancient Lycian coast with panoramic views.
• Historical Sights: Experience the Sunken City and Simena Castle up close from the water.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides provide safety tips and interesting insights.
• Activities Included: Swimming, sightseeing, and a traditional Turkish lunch.
• Duration & Size: About 6 hours total, small group limited to 15 people.
• Cost & Value: At around $68, it’s a reasonable price for a day of adventure, scenery, and cultural sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

This tour begins early, around 8 a.m., with a pickup in Kas. The small bus ride to Uçaiz village takes roughly 45 minutes and sets the stage for a day filled with exploration. From the start, the crew emphasizes safety and offers a quick paddle instruction, making it accessible even for complete beginners. The idea is to keep it relaxed, but be prepared for some physical activity—paddling is described as similar to a brisk walk.

Once in the water, a motorized support vessel stays close by, giving everyone peace of mind that help is nearby if needed. The group departs around 9:30 a.m., paddling southwest along the coast toward Kekova Island, with the first stop at Tersane Bay for a swim and scenic break. It’s a good time to stretch your legs, take photos, and soak in the views.

Exploring the Sunken City

The highlight here is the Sunken City of Kekova. Since swimming is not permitted directly in the ruins (it’s a protected area), kayaking around the submerged structures offers a close-up view. This is a real treat, allowing you to see ancient Lycian remains from the water. Reviews rave about how magical this experience is, with one traveler noting, “Kayaking through the Kekova seas was unforgettable… the colors of the water and the surroundings were breathtaking.” The guide’s insights tend to enhance this, making it more than just a pretty paddle.

Visiting Simena Castle

Next, you’ll head to the village of Simena, where you have about 45 minutes to explore the castle ruins and enjoy the views. A short hike up the hillside reveals sweeping scenes of the coastline, while a walk through the village itself feels authentic and charming. If walking isn’t your thing, you can opt to stay below and dip into the water again. Several reviews mention how memorable the vistas from the castle are, and the small group size means you can take your time soaking it all in.

Theimussa and Lunch

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Theimussa for more Lycian sarcophagi and scenery. It’s a quieter, less crowded part of the coast, perfect for a final paddle or photo session. The day wraps up with a return to Üçaiz for a well-deserved Turkish lunch, included in the price. It’s a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

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The Practicalities: How It Works

The tour runs about six hours, starting early from Kas. The pickup at Smiley’s Restaurant makes logistics easy, and the small group size helps keep things intimate and manageable. The group leader, Yasar, is highly praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge, making the experience more engaging.

The price of $68 covers your kayaking, lunch, and transportation, which many reviews suggest offers good value for the variety of sights and activities included. There’s also the option to cancel up to 24 hours before, providing some flexibility if plans change.

While the tour does not include the entrance fee to Simena Castle (around 4 euros), most travelers find the overall experience worthwhile, especially with the opportunity to see Kekova from the water and explore the historic sites without the crowds of larger tours.

What to Wear and Bring

You’ll want comfortable clothing suitable for paddling—quick-drying shorts and a t-shirt are ideal. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as you’ll be exposed to the sun most of the day. Bringing water and possibly a change of clothes for after swimming is also a good idea.

Group Size & Language

Limited to 15 participants, the tour feels personal without being crowded. Guides speak English and Turkish, so communication is straightforward.

Authentic Voices: Real Travelers Share Their Thoughts

Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise, with one traveler saying, “Yasar was a great guide, full of enthusiasm and knowledge.” The scenery receives universal praise, with comments like “the colors of the water and surroundings were breathtaking.” Several mention that discovering Kekova by kayak rather than boat offers a more intimate experience, making it more memorable.

Some travelers note that paddling can be challenging if the wind picks up, but the support boat helps keep everyone safe and comfortable. A few mention that the day can be tiring, especially in hot weather, so coming prepared is key. Still, the consensus is that the effort pays off with picture-perfect sights and a genuine adventure.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Point: The tour kicks off at Liman Sk. No: 20, in Kas, with a pickup that varies seasonally. This initial drive is a good chance to meet your guide and fellow travelers.

Uçaiz Village and Kayaking: The journey begins with a safety briefing and paddle instructions—no worries if you’re new to kayaking. This part lasts roughly 4 hours, covering about 8 kilometers of paddling, with breaks for swimming and sightseeing. The presence of a support vessel means you’re never far from help if needed.

Tersane Bay: The first stop is at Tersane Bay, a peaceful spot ideal for a swim and photos. It’s a scenic place that also offers a chance to practice paddling techniques.

Sunken City Exploration: The highlight involves paddling around the ruins of the Lycian Sunken City of Kekova. Since swimming isn’t allowed here, paddling close to the submerged buildings gives a sense of history and mystery. Multiple reviews describe this as a standout experience.

Simena Castle: After paddling along the coast, you arrive in the village of Simena. Here, you can climb the castle ruins for panoramic views or wander the narrow streets. The optional hike is rewarded with stunning vistas, making the most of your 45-minute stop.

Theimussa & Return: The last stop is at Theimussa, where Lycian sarcophagi and scenic views make for a relaxing finale. Then, it’s back to Üçaiz for lunch and the return trip to Kas.

How Does It Value Up?

For $68, you get a full day of unique experiences—scenery, history, active fun, and local cuisine. The price includes transportation from Kas, kayak rental, and lunch, making it a straightforward all-in-one package. Considering the small group size and guides’ enthusiasm, many find this to be excellent value.

While you do need to pay a small extra for the castle entrance (around 4 euros), the overall experience is rich and engaging. It’s a good deal for those wanting a mix of outdoor activity and cultural exploration without spending a fortune.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys being outside, appreciates scenic views, and wants to see ancient ruins from a different perspective, this tour is a winner. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and sunny weather. Even beginners can enjoy it, thanks to the support boat and clear instructions.

It’s also a great choice for travelers who prefer small-group tours with personalized attention, rather than large, crowded excursions. And if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a bit of adventure, this trip fits the bill.

The Sum Up

This Kekova sea kayaking tour from Kas offers a well-rounded experience that balances active fun with cultural highlights. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to explore the Lycian coast, see the Sunken City from up close, and enjoy stunning scenery from a unique vantage point. The knowledgeable guides, small group size, and inclusion of lunch make it a hassle-free way to spend a memorable day.

While paddling and sun exposure might be tiring for some, the overall feeling of connection with history and nature makes it worthwhile. It’s a trip that suits those who want an active, scenic, and culturally interesting outing without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a genuine adventure that combines history, the outdoors, and good company, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to pack your sun protection and come prepared for a day on the water—you’ll leave with plenty of stories and photos to share.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for beginners. The safety briefing and paddle instructions ensure everyone feels comfortable, and a support vessel is available for assistance.

What’s included in the price?
Your payment covers transportation from Kas, a full day of sea kayaking (about 4 hours), and lunch in Üçaiz. The only extra is the entrance fee to Simena Castle, which costs around 4 euros.

How long does the whole tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, starting early in the morning and ending back in Kas in the early afternoon.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen and a hat, comfortable clothing suitable for paddling, water, and perhaps a towel or change of clothes for after swimming.

Is swimming allowed at the Sunken City?
No, swimming is not permitted in the Sunken City because it’s a protected area. But kayaking around the ruins offers a close-up view.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, making it a small-group experience that feels more personal and flexible.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if needed.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed for families, the activity is suitable for those comfortable with light physical activity and outdoor conditions. Always consider individual comfort and endurance levels.

If kayaking past ancient ruins and enjoying scenic views sounds appealing, this Kekova tour might be just the adventure you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: