From Antalya: Private Tour to Kekova Island, Myra and Demre

Key Points

• Private tour from Antalya offers a flexible, personalized experience for exploring Kekova, Myra, and Demre.
• Duration of 13 hours with comfortable transportation and boat trips included.
• Visit Kekova’s Sunken City with views through a glass-bottom boat, plus swimming stops at Aquarium Bay, Esmeralda Bay, and others.
• Explore historical sites such as Myra’s Roman theatre, rock-cut tombs, and the St. Nicholas Church in Demre.
• Includes lunch, snorkeling equipment, and a private transfer, with entrance fees paid separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Starts with a Private Transfer from Antalya

This tour begins bright and early at 7 a.m., with a private transfer from your Antalya hotel. The ride to Demre is comfortable, setting the tone for a day dedicated to uncovering both natural beauty and ancient history. The private group format ensures a relaxed atmosphere, free from large crowds, making it ideal for those who prefer a tailored experience.

The journey is part of the experience, giving a glimpse of the scenic landscapes of Antalya Province as you head towards the Turquoise Coast. The focus on convenience and personalized service makes this a smooth way to visit distant sites without the hassle of coordinating multiple public transports or large tours.

Cruising to Kekova’s Sunken City and Exploring Ancient Ruins

The boat awaits at Demre Harbour, ready to start the exploration of Kekova Island and its famous Sunken City. The cruise features a glass-bottom window, offering striking views of the submerged ruins that date back to ancient times. This unique feature provides a memorable way to see the remains without getting wet, although swimming is optional.

As the boat glides past Aquarium Bay, travelers can enjoy a refreshing swim break in its crystal-clear waters, perfect for soaking up the sun. The boat also stops at Gökkaya Bay—another spot for swimming, with water sports available for those who want an added thrill.

Exploring Simena Castle and Kaleköy Village

The boat docks at Kaleköy port, historically known as Simena, for about an hour. Visitors can wander through the village, walking along narrow streets lined with colorful houses and shops. The castle ruins of Simena are a highlight, offering panoramic views over the bay and surrounding islands.

The necropolis and the castle ruins provide an atmospheric glimpse into the area’s past. For those who prefer a more active option, hiking for stunning vistas is available. Alternatively, a swim in the crystal waters of the bay offers a relaxing way to enjoy this scenic spot.

Lunch and Relaxation at Esmeralda Bay

After the morning sightseeing, the tour includes a lunch and swim break at Esmeralda Bay, renowned for its peaceful setting and calm waters. The serenity of this bay invites visitors to unwind, enjoy a meal amidst nature, and take a swim in its tranquil waters. The timing at this bay offers a perfect balance between activity and relaxation.

The lunch is typically enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere, allowing for a break from the busy sightseeing schedule. The area’s tranquility makes it one of the most cherished stops on the tour.

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Swimming in Burç Bay and Gökaya Bay

Following lunch, the boat heads to Burç Bay for another swim stop. Here, the colder waters are cooled by natural underwater springs, offering a different swimming experience. This stop provides a peaceful environment to refresh.

Next is Gökkaya Bay, where water sports are on offer, including various water activities. This bay showcases the natural beauty of the coast and gives travelers the chance to enjoy the water in multiple ways.

Discovering Pirates Cave and Karemlik Bay for Nature Encounters

The tour continues with a visit to Pirates Cave, a large naturally-formed cave known for its distinctive curved entrance. Its size and shape make it a striking feature along the coast and perfect for photography.

In Karemlik Bay, there is an opportunity to look for sea turtles, as three of the seven known Mediterranean sea turtle species inhabit the waters here. This chance to spot majestic sea creatures adds a layer of excitement and connection with nature during the trip.

Visiting the Lycian Civilizations Museum and Demre’s Churches

The journey takes a cultural turn at the Museum of Lycian Civilizations, housed in a 2nd-century ancient granary. Here, artifacts from nearby Lycian cities offer insights into the region’s ancient civilizations, enriching the day’s historical narrative.

From there, the tour visits the Santa Claus Museum in Demre town center. This archaeological site features remains of a church built in 520 A.D., dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra, the 4th-century patron saint. It provides a tangible link to the legend of Santa Claus and the area’s religious history.

Exploring Myra’s Archaeological Sites

The ancient city of Myra is a major highlight, with ruins dating back to the 5th century B.C.. Visitors explore the Roman-style theatre, the rock-cut tombs, and other significant ruins carved into the cliffs above. The theatre is the largest in Lycia, offering impressive views and a sense of the area’s historical importance.

The site’s rock tombs add an intriguing visual element, carved into the limestone cliffs, providing insight into ancient burial practices. Plenty of time is set aside here to admire the archaeological significance and take photos of the evocative scenery.

Returning to Antalya at the End of the Day

The tour concludes with the private transfer back to Antalya, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. This allows for a relaxed end to the day, with the chance to continue enjoying your holiday in Turkey. The day’s itinerary balances historical exploration, natural beauty, and relaxing water activities, all in a flexible, private setting.

The Cost, Inclusions, and What to Keep in Mind

At $539 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with lunch, a boat trip, and snorkeling equipment included. Some entrance fees, such as Simena Castle, Myra, St. Nicholas Church, and the Lycian Civilizations Museum, are paid separately.

This tour suits those who appreciate a personalized experience, enjoy historical sites, and love water-based activities. The 13-hour duration means a full day of exploration, so comfortable clothing, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel are recommended.

The tour is conducted in English, and the small, private group format enhances interaction with guides. Flexibility in cancellation—up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind to your planning.

The Experience Provider and Booking

Operated by SAILNSTAY, this tour emphasizes comfort, cultural discovery, and natural beauty. Booking is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan your trip.

The overall experience offers a well-rounded day exploring antiquity and nature, with the convenience of private transport and carefully selected stops. While the cost reflects the exclusivity and inclusions, it is a worthwhile expense for those seeking an in-depth, private tour of this part of Turkey.

Final Words on the Kekova, Myra, and Demre Private Tour

This 13-hour private tour from Antalya provides a balanced mix of history, nature, and relaxation. The highlights—Kekova’s Sunken City, Myra’s ruins, and Demre’s churches—are complemented by multiple swimming breaks and scenic stops, making it ideal for those who wish to see the best of this coast in one day.

While some entrance fees are paid separately, the overall value for a personalized, guided experience is clear. The stunning views at each stop and the chance to combine cultural sites with water activities make this tour a compelling choice for history buffs, nature lovers, and curious travelers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7 a.m., with a private transfer from your Antalya hotel.

What’s included in the price?
The $539 per person fee covers lunch, a boat trip, and snorkeling equipment. Entrance fees are paid separately.

Are swimming stops suitable for all ages?
Yes, the stops at Aquarium Bay, Esmeralda Bay, and others are suitable for most swimmers. Swimming in cold waters at Burç Bay is noted as a refreshing experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bringing sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen is recommended to enjoy the water stops comfortably.

Can I participate in water sports?
Yes, at Gökkaya Bay, water sports are available for those interested in more active water-based fun.

Is this tour suitable for history enthusiasts?
Absolutely, the stops at Myra, Kekova’s Sunken City, and the Museum of Lycian Civilizations offer rich historical insights.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 13 hours.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, ensuring clear explanations throughout the day.

Is the tour customizable or flexible?
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the provider’s booking platform, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

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