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

Planning a day trip that promises a mix of ancient ruins, turquoise waters, and authentic village charm? This small-group tour from Kalkan to Kekova, Demre, and Myra seems tailored for travelers eager to see the highlights of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast without the hassle of booking multiple attractions separately. What makes this experience stand out? We particularly appreciate the comfortable boat rides that offer fantastic views and the opportunity to explore historic sites at a relaxed pace. The average price of around $95 delivers good value, especially considering the included lunch and snorkeling equipment.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves multiple stops and a full 11-hour day, which could be tiring for some. But if you’re after a comprehensive day of scenic cruising and ancient landmarks with a small, friendly group, this trip hits a sweet spot. It’s particularly well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local culture.

Key Points

• Small-group setting ensures a more personal and relaxed experience
• Multiple scenic stops provide opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and photography
• Rich historical sites like Demre’s ruins and Myra’s rock tombs
• Stunning bays and waterscapes that highlight Turkey’s natural beauty
• Good value with lunch, snorkeling gear, and floating mats included
• Ideal for active, curious travelers eager for a full-day adventure

A Practical Guide to the Journey: What to Expect

This tour from Kalkan offers a well-rounded itinerary that balances cultural exploration, natural beauty, and leisure. It’s designed for travelers who want to see a lot in one day without feeling rushed. Here’s what you’ll encounter along the way, with insights into why each stop matters.

Starting in Kalkan: The Charming Gateway

The adventure begins in Kalkan, a town famous for its vibrant town center, boutique shops, and breathtaking sunsets. While we don’t spend much time here during the tour, just strolling through Kalkan’s narrow streets beforehand or afterward can be delightful. It sets the tone for a day filled with scenic views and historical treasures. Knowing that transportation is arranged for you from this picturesque town relieves the stress of figuring out logistics.

Stop 1: Demre (Kale) and the Boat Ride to Kekova

Your journey kicks off at Demre harbor, where a boat awaits to take you to Kekova. The boat ride lasts about 45 minutes and offers a chance to enjoy the fresh sea breeze while viewing the rugged coast. The boat itself is described as old but spacious with shade, which is important if you want to avoid the midday sun. The boat’s gentle glide over calm waters sets the tone for a relaxing day.

Once underway, you’ll get a glimpse of the Sunken City of Kekova, which was buried after a powerful earthquake in the 2nd century. This site isn’t just a picturesque ruin; it’s a story in stone and water, giving you a real sense of history. While swimming isn’t permitted in this protected area, cruising past the submerged houses and streets makes for stunning photo opportunities — a highlight for many.

Stop 2: Castle of Simena (Kaleköy)

Next, the boat makes a stop at the charming village of Kaleköy, also called Castle of Simena. You’ll have about an hour to explore this hillside village, which features castle ruins and a necropolis. If you’re up for a bit of exercise, hiking up the hillside offers commanding views of the bay — and a chance to see the historic fortress that once guarded the coast.

While entrance fees aren’t included (about 4 euros), many travelers find wandering the narrow streets and soaking in the views well worth the small fee. The village offers a genuine taste of local life, with fishermen’s boats, quaint cafes, and friendly locals.

Stops 3-6: Bays for Swimming and Relaxation

The latter part of the tour focuses on natural beauty and leisure. Esmeralda Bay offers a perfect spot to unwind with a lunch and swimming break. Expect serenity and calm waters—ideal for soaking up the sun or simply relaxing on the boat.

Burc Bay presents a more refreshing swim thanks to natural cold springs beneath the surface, providing a different swimming experience. Gokkaya Bay is another highlight, where you can take a dip and perhaps try water sports if you’re feeling energetic. Many reviews mention how these stops are perfect for capturing the stunning scenery and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

The Cave with Its Unique Entrance

One of the most visually striking features is a fascinating cave with a naturally formed curved entrance. Expect to see impressive size and natural formations, making it a memorable photo spot. The cave adds a touch of adventure to the trip, inviting curiosity and awe.

Karemlik Bay and Its Sea Turtles

Next, your boat will visit Karemlik Bay, a known habitat for three species of sea turtles. Watching these gentle creatures in their natural environment can be a highlight, especially for nature lovers. The bay’s beauty and ecological importance make it a standout part of the itinerary.

Historical Highlights: Myra and the Rock Tombs

After the boat ride back at Demre, you’ll visit the ancient ruins of Myra, which date back to the 5th century B.C. Here, you’ll see the Roman-style theatre and rock tombs carved into the cliffs—an authentic glimpse into the past. The tombs are a favorite among visitors, and many review how impressive the site is, especially considering the history that’s embedded in every stone.

Note that the entrance fee here (around 13 euros) isn’t included, but it’s a small investment for a glimpse into ancient civilization.

Ending in Kalkan: A Satisfying Close

The tour concludes back in Kalkan, giving you an opportunity to relax after a full day. Many travelers appreciate returning to their starting point, feeling they’re leaving with a richer understanding of Turkey’s coast and a camera full of stunning photos.

Valuable Insights from Travelers’ Experiences

The only review available praises the transfer logistics and the quality of the boat. “Great pick-up and transfer from Kalkan, very enjoyable drive to sightsee. Lovely old boat, plenty of space and crucially shade! Courtesy all round from the crew, and multiple stops for swimming off the boat in the beautiful bays.” This highlights how smooth transportation and a comfortable boat can make or break a day trip.

Many travelers also note how the stops for swimming are truly the highlight, with some quoting that they enjoyed “several stops for swimming off the boat in the beautiful bays”—a testament to the natural beauty and the relaxed pace. The stunning views and peaceful waters are frequently mentioned, confirming that this trip offers a perfect balance of sightseeing and leisure.

Analyzing the Value: Is This Tour Worth It?

At roughly $95, the tour includes lunch, snorkeling gear, floating mats, and inflatable rings—a good value given the length and variety of activities. While some site entrance fees are extra, they are relatively modest (around 4 euros for the castle and 13 euros for Myra), meaning the overall cost remains reasonable.

The small group size—max 20 travelers—creates an intimate atmosphere where you can ask questions and share the experience without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. This makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a more tailored experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip appeals most to adventurous travelers, history buffs, and those who love natural scenery. If you’re keen on seeing ancient ruins, swimming in bays, and enjoying authentic Turkey coastal villages, it hits many marks. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a long day—most travelers report feeling satisfied and enriched by the experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more leisurely or less active day, you might find some stops a bit rushed or physically demanding, especially hiking up to the castle.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, blending history, nature, and leisure. The stunning views of bays and ruins, combined with the opportunity to explore authentic villages, makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

It’s especially suited for active, curious visitors who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and relaxation in a small-group setting, where personalized attention is possible. If your goal is to capture beautiful photos, learn about ancient civilizations, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the Turkish coast, this tour provides good value for a full day’s adventure.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 8:30 am from Andifli, Kalkan, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the day without feeling rushed.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, allowing for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkel gear is provided as part of the tour, so you can explore underwater in bays where swimming is permitted.

Are the boat rides comfortable?
The boat is described as an older but spacious vessel with shade, making it suitable for all weather conditions during the cruise.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, entrance fees for sites like the Castle of Simena (around 4 euros) and Myra (about 13 euros) are not included and need to be paid separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the full-day length and the physical demands of some stops if traveling with young children.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and some cash for optional entrance fees and souvenirs.

Can I cancel or change booking easily?
Yes, bookings can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This tour packs in impressive scenery, storied ruins, and the chance to enjoy Turkey’s waters — all in a friendly, small-group setting. Whether you’re a history lover, a nature enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a memorable coastal journey, it’s worth considering for your Kalkan itinerary.