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

This detailed review explores a popular day trip from Kalkan that takes you through stunning coastal scenery, ancient ruins, and charming villages. While we haven’t done the trip ourselves, we’ve gathered insights from genuine reviews, detailed itineraries, and the tour’s highlights to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this tour? First, the combination of spectacular sea views and fascinating archaeological sites makes it a well-rounded experience. Second, the small-group setting ensures more personalized attention and easier interaction. Third, the diverse stops, from swimming in bays to exploring ancient rock tombs, offer a variety of memorable moments.

A potential consideration is the cost of some entrance fees, which are not included in the tour price. If you’re on a tight budget, plan ahead for these extras. This tour suits travelers who love history, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want a taste of authentic Turkish coastal life in a relaxed, intimate group.

Good To Know

• Small group size (max 20 travelers) allows for a more personal experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary with stops at beaches, ruins, and villages keeps the day engaging.
• Boat cruise offers stunning views of the Sunken City and opportunities for memorable photos.
• Inclusion of lunch and water sports equipment adds value, especially for active travelers.
• Entrance fees for certain sites are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Highly-rated for smooth transfers and enjoyable drive, as noted by past guests.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Kalkan’s Vibrant Town Center

The tour begins in Kalkan, a picturesque town famous for its lively atmosphere, boutique shops, and breathtaking sunsets. We love how this sets the scene—you’re already in a charming Mediterranean setting, and the anticipation of a full day ahead makes it more special. The meeting point is at Andifli, near public transport, making it accessible for most travelers.

First Stop: Demre (Kale) Harbor and the Boat Ride

At Demre harbor, a boat awaits to take you to Kekova, a highlight of the trip. The boat ride lasts about 45 minutes and offers you the chance to see the coastline from the water. Past visitors note that the vessel is spacious and shaded, making the journey comfortable even on warmer days. One reviewer mentioned, “Lovely old boat, plenty of space and crucially shade!” The boat is equipped for cruising past the Sunken City of Kekova, which was submerged after a quake in the 2nd century—an eerie yet awe-inspiring sight.

Exploring the Sunken City of Kekova

While swimming isn’t permitted in this protected area, you’ll get an excellent view of the ruins by boat. The cruise allows you to photograph the submerged structures from a safe distance, capturing the contrast of ancient stone against clear water. The Sunken City is the real star here, offering a glimpse into history and a perfect photo opportunity. Reviewers mention that the boat’s stops for swimming are in other bays, so you won’t miss out on water fun.

Stop at Castle of Simena (Kaleköy)

Next, you’ll visit Kaleköy, a quaint village with a fortress atop the hillside. This stop is about an hour long, giving you time to wander the cobbled streets, explore castle ruins, and check out the necropolis. For the adventurous, a hike up the hillside offers panoramic views. One reviewer said, “Great opportunity to stroll through the village and explore the castle ruins,” noting that the area is charming but can be crowded during peak times.

Lunch and Relaxation at Esmeralda Bay

Midday, the tour takes a break at Esmeralda Bay—a stunning spot to unwind, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or take a quick dip. The bay’s serene waters and scenic surroundings are appreciated by guests who value tranquility. The tour provides a simple, satisfying lunch, but past visitors also suggest bringing snacks if you’re particularly hungry or have specific dietary needs.

Swimming Breaks at Burç Bay and Gökkaya Bay

The afternoon features two more swimming stops—Burç Bay and Gökkaya Bay. In Burç Bay, the cooler waters are partly thanks to natural springs beneath the surface, making it a refreshing stop. Gökaya Bay is a lively spot where you can swim and try water sports if you wish—some reviews mention engaging in activities like floating on inflatable rings or snorkeling (equipment included).

The Cave with the Curved Entrance

A fascinating highlight is a large natural cave with a curved entrance—an impressive geological formation that visitors can admire from the boat. It’s a photo-worthy spot and a chance to experience the natural sculpting of the coastline.

Karemlik Bay and Sea Turtles

The tour then moves to Karemlik Bay, famous for being a habitat of three of the seven known sea turtle species in the Mediterranean. Travelers often find this stop particularly special, hoping to catch a glimpse of these gentle creatures in their natural environment. Since observation depends on timing, it’s best to remain patient and respectful of the marine life.

Return to Demre and Visit to Myra

After the boat ride, the tour continues on land with a visit to Myra, an archaeological site with rock tombs and a Roman-style theatre. While entrance fees for the rock tombs are extra (around €13), the site’s impressive ancient structures and history make it worthwhile. A past reviewer mentioned, “The ruins feel like stepping into history, and the rock tombs are incredibly well-preserved.” The visit here offers a deeper understanding of the region’s ancient civilization.

Final Stop: Kalkan and Return Journey

The day ends with a final 45-minute stop back in Kalkan, giving everyone a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures, shop for souvenirs, or just enjoy the town’s laid-back vibe before heading back to your accommodation.

Transportation, Group Size, and Value

This tour is operated by SAILNSTAY and accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience than larger coach tours. The pickup from Kalkan and return is smooth, with reviews highlighting the enjoyable and comfortable drive. The entire day lasts approximately 11 hours, balancing sightseeing, relaxation, and travel comfortably.

At $95.78 per person, the tour offers good value considering the variety of stops, included lunch, snorkelling gear, and water inflatables. The additional costs for entrance fees—such as the castle of Simena (€4) and Myra rock tombs (€13)—are reasonable extras for the chance to explore iconic sites.

What Past Guests Say

One review encapsulates the experience well: “Great pick-up and transfer from Kalkan, very enjoyable drive to sightsee. The boat had plenty of space and shade, with multiple stops for swimming in beautiful bays. A lovely day and definitely a highlight.” The flexibility of the cruise, combined with the scenic stops, makes this tour appealing for most travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re passionate about history, scenic boat rides, and coastal villages, this trip is ideal. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and exploring. The small-group setting also appeals if you dislike large crowds and prefer more personalized attention.

Travelers who enjoy combining cultural sites with natural beauty will find this itinerary hits the mark. Be prepared for some optional walking and light hiking if you choose to explore the castle and hillside village.

The Sum Up

This small-group day trip from Kalkan offers a well-balanced mix of ancient ruins, scenic boat rides, and tranquil bays. You’ll love the chance to see the Sunken City of Kekova, explore the rock tombs of Myra, and relax in stunning bays like Esmeralda and Gökkaya. The intimate group size, comfortable boat, and varied itinerary make it a genuine value for travelers wanting an authentic Turkish coastal experience.

While there are some additional costs for entrance fees, the overall experience provides a rich glimpse into the area’s history and natural beauty. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a full, enriching day without feeling rushed—especially if you enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

The main crowd-pleaser? The stunning views and peaceful bays that make every moment picture-perfect. For anyone seeking a memorable, diverse adventure with a friendly vibe, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes boat transportation, a traditional lunch, snorkeling equipment, floating mats, and inflatable rings. Entrance fees for sites like Myra and Castle of Simena are extra.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, from pickup at 8:30 am until returning to Kalkan.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at sites like the castle and Myra.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, cash for entrance fees, and a camera. Comfortable footwear is recommended for walking around villages and ruins.

Are there swimming opportunities?
Yes, you can swim at Esmeralda Bay, Burç Bay, and Gökkaya Bay. Water sports equipment is provided, and the bays are known for their calm, clean waters.

Can I join the tour if I don’t stay in Kalkan?
The tour specifically starts and ends in Kalkan, but pickup is included, making it convenient for those based nearby.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include the boat cruise past Kekova’s Sunken City, exploring Kaleköy’s castle, relaxing in stunning bays, and visiting Myra’s ancient rock tombs.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a tasty lunch is provided during the day, along with time to relax at Esmeralda Bay.

Are there any hidden costs?
Entrance fees for certain sites are not included, so budget around €4 for Castle of Simena and €13 for Myra’s rock tombs.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Absolutely, bookings are usually made about 20 days ahead, and the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This tour from Kalkan provides a wonderful blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxing waterside stops—perfect for travelers wanting an authentic and memorable day along Turkey’s stunning coast.