Kas: (Small Group) Day Trip to Kekova Island, Demre & Myra

Exploring the Turquoise Coast: A Close Look at the Kas Small-Group Day Trip to Kekova, Demre & Myra

If you’re dreaming of uncovering the history and natural beauty of Turkey’s Lycian coast, this small-group tour from Kas offers a compelling way to do so. It promises a mix of ancient ruins, underwater mysteries, and picturesque bays — all packed into a 10-hour journey that feels intimate rather than rushed.

What really caught our eye are the personalized vibe of a small group, which often translates into more flexibility and less crowding at the key sights, and the variety of experiences packed into one day — from boat cruises to exploring ancient sites. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long day’s duration; some travelers might find the itinerary a bit full, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour suits those who love combining history with natural beauty, and it’s especially appealing if you’re interested in seeing underwater ruins or enjoying a tranquil bay with a good swim. It’s an experience best for travelers who are comfortable with a full day out and about, and who appreciate expert-guided, small-group adventures that feel both relaxed and enriching.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size ensures more interaction and tailored attention.
• Diverse Highlights: From sunken cities to ancient theaters, the tour covers a broad range of sights.
• Boat Journey: Cruise along the coast, taking in stunning views and underwater ruins.
• Ancient Ruins & History: Explore Myra’s rock-cut tombs and the Lycian Museum for a taste of history.
• Natural Beauty & Wildlife: Swim in bays like Esmeralda, Karemlik, and Gökkaya, and look out for sea turtles.
• Value for Money: At $74 per person, considering the inclusions, it’s a solid deal for a full day of exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

Your day kicks off with a pickup from Kas, a charming town known for its relaxed vibe and stunning scenery. The pick-up times vary by season, so you’ll get your exact schedule a day in advance. From there, you’re transported to Demre Harbor, where your adventure begins aboard a boat. This initial transfer sets the tone — smooth, organized, and designed to maximize your time on the water and at each stop.

The Boat Cruise and Sunken City of Kekova

Once onboard, you’ll cruise along Kekova Island, which is famous for its Sunken City of Dolchiste. The underwater ruins of this ancient Lycian town are visible from the boat, giving you a peek into history without even leaving the deck. Travelers consistently mention how this part is a highlight, with one reviewer noting, “We loved the way the boat glided along the coast, and the underwater ruins were mesmerizing.” The views from the boat are pretty spectacular, and it’s a great way to get a sense of the area’s history without a strenuous walk.

Visiting Simena Castle & Kaleköy

The boat drops anchor at Kaleköy, or ancient Simena, a tiny village with a medieval castle ruins perched above the sea. Here, you can wander the narrow streets, enjoy panoramic views, and even take a dip in the clear waters. Many mention the authentic charm of the village, which feels like stepping back in time. The castle itself isn’t large but offers a great perspective on the area’s history and breathtaking vistas.

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Lunch & Swimming Breaks at Esmeralda, Burç & Gökkaya Bays

After exploring the village, it’s time to relax in Esmeralda Bay, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere. The tour includes a delicious, tranquil lunch here, which many reviews describe as satisfying and refreshing after a morning on the water. The bays are perfect spots for swimming and chilling, with clear waters that invite a dip.

You’ll also visit Burç Bay, famous for its natural freshwater springs that feed into the sea, making the water especially cool and invigorating. Then there’s Gökkaya Bay, which often prompts travelers to comment on how stunning the setting is — surrounded by natural beauty and ideal for a swim or some water sports.

Pirates Cave & Karemlik Bay — Natural Wonders & Wildlife

Next, the boat sails past the Pirates Cave, a natural rock formation with a curved entrance that’s as striking as it is fun to photograph. Then, you’ll visit Karemlik Bay, where you can look out for sea turtles, known to inhabit the area. Several reviews mention spotting these gentle creatures, which adds a special wildlife touch to the trip.

Exploring Demre & Myra

After a full morning on the water, the boat heads to Demre Harbor. Here, the tour usually includes a visit to the Museum of Lycian Civilizations — a nice stop for history buffs eager to learn about the Lycian culture. You might also explore the St. Nicholas Church, built on the site of the original church honoring Santa Claus, which adds a layer of cultural richness.

The highlight for many is the Ancient City of Myra, where you can marvel at the Roman-style theater (the largest in Lycia) and see the rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs. These ruins, paired with the Lycian museum, give a tangible sense of the region’s historical significance. Several reviews describe the ruins as “hauntingly beautiful,” and appreciate the guided attention to detail, which helps bring the past to life.

Returning to Kas

After a day full of sights and experiences, the tour concludes with a return to Kas. The overall flow feels well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling rushed — a feat considering the full itinerary packed into 10 hours.

The Value of This Tour

At $74 per person, considering the inclusions like boat trips, visits to multiple bays, guided walks, and the entrance to archaeological sites, it offers good value. The price also covers pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

Many reviewers have called it “a very well-organized day,” and appreciated the small group setting, which tends to enhance the experience, allowing for more interaction and flexibility. The host or guide speaks English, making explanations accessible and engaging.

That said, the full-day duration might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to long excursions. It’s a packed schedule, but most find it worthwhile because of the diversity of sights and activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys history, stunning landscapes, and aquatic adventures, you’ll probably enjoy this trip a lot. It’s perfect if you like a mix of sightseeing and relaxing in nature, with enough time to swim and unwind. Travelers who value small-group intimacy and want to avoid crowded tour buses will find this especially appealing.

On the other hand, if you prefer slower, more leisurely days or are not keen on boat trips, this might feel a bit intense. Also, it’s a full day, so it’s best for those prepared for a long outing.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Kas City Centre, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

What should I bring?
Pack a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and some cash for extras. It’s a full day outside, so being prepared is key.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch is included during the Bays, but additional food and drinks are not, so bring some cash if you’d like extra snacks or beverages.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-focused, it’s generally suitable for travelers who are comfortable with a full day of activity. Very young children might find the boat rides or long hours tiring.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s an archaeological site entrance fee that isn’t included in the tour price.

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

Final Thoughts

This Kas small-group day trip to Kekova, Demre, and Myra offers a well-rounded taste of the coast’s ancient past, natural beauty, and maritime charm. It’s a satisfying choice for those eager to see the sunken city, explore Lycian ruins, and relax in gorgeous bays — all in one day. The guided small group ensures a more intimate experience, and the variety of stops keeps the day engaging.

While the full schedule might be a stretch for some, if you’re up for a full day of adventure and discovery, this tour delivers a good balance of history, scenery, and aquatic fun. It’s especially suited for travelers who love combining cultural sites with natural splendor, and who appreciate the convenience of an organized, all-in-one outing.

In summary, this tour from Kas is a practical, engaging way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating sights. It’s a rich experience that’s worth considering if you want a comprehensive, well-organized day with plenty of photo ops, underwater mysteries, and ancient history to explore.

You can check availability for your dates here: