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

Discover the Charm of Kalkan and Surrounding Coastal Waters

This small-group tour from Kalkan offers an engaging way to experience some of Turkey’s most captivating sights in just over 11 hours. Priced at $95.78 per person, it balances scenic boat trips, swimming breaks, and visits to historic archaeological sites. The tour is limited to 20 participants, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere and personal attention from the guides. The journey begins early in the morning at 8:30 am, with a mobile ticket that makes check-in straightforward.

The highlight of this trip lies in its mix of stunning turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and charming villages. It’s ideal for those wanting an active, culturally rich day with plenty of opportunities to relax by the sea. Careful scheduling ensures visitors enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, making it a practical choice for a full day of exploration.

Key Points

• 11-hour small-group tour from Kalkan with a maximum of 20 travelers
• Includes boat rides, swimming breaks, and visits to Demre, Myra, Kekova, and Kaleköy
• Highlights include the Sunken City of Kekova, Castle of Simena, and rock tombs in Myra
• Lunch and snorkeling equipment are included, with free stops at beautiful bays
• Entrance fees for some sites, like the Castle of Simena and Myra, are not included and cost extra
• Tour departs early at 8:30 am and ends back in Kalkan

Starting Point: Meeting in Andifli, Kalkan

The tour begins at the meeting point in Andifli, a short journey from central Kalkan, with easy access via public transportation. The pickup and transfer from Kalkan are praised for being smooth, setting a positive tone for the day. The duration of around 11 hours allows for a comprehensive experience, with the tour wrapping up back in Kalkan around early afternoon.

Participants are equipped with snorkeling gear, floating mats, and inflatable rings, adding fun to the water-based segments. The overall pace is well-balanced, with sufficient time allocated to each stop, making it a suitable choice for most travelers.

Exploring Demre (Kale) and the Boat Ride to Kekova

The day kicks off with a visit to Demre harbor, where a boat awaits to take guests toward the Sunken City of Kekova. The boat cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes and provides an excellent vantage point to view the submerged ruins of Dolchiste, a town lost to a 2nd-century earthquake.

While swimming is not permitted in the protected area, the cruise offers breathtaking photos of the ancient underwater structures from the boat’s deck. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories about the earthquake that sank the city and how it remains a symbol of the area’s history.

Visiting the Castle of Simena at Kaleköy

Next, the tour makes a stop at Kaleköy, also known as Castle of Simena. Here, visitors have one hour to explore this picturesque village, famous for its castle ruins and necropolis. The hike up the hillside rewards visitors with panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding coastline.

While admission tickets for the castle are not included, the site’s ruins and village atmosphere provide plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insight. The presence of a medieval castle makes this stop a highlight for history enthusiasts.

Lunch and Relaxation at Esmeralda Bay

The tour allows a 45-minute break at Esmeralda Bay, a tranquil spot renowned for its natural beauty. Here, travelers can enjoy a lunch included in the tour price, along with a chance to swim in the calm, clear waters. The bay’s serene environment makes it an ideal setting to unwind and soak up the day’s sunshine.

This stop is often praised for its peaceful ambiance, making it a relaxing pause amid a busy day of sightseeing.

Cooling Off in Burç Bay

Following Esmeralda Bay, the trip continues with a 45-minute swim break at Burç Bay. This bay is notable for its cooler waters, thanks to the natural cold springs beneath the surface. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in a peaceful setting, surrounded by lush natural scenery.

The calm bay provides an excellent opportunity for a leisurely dip and a chance to appreciate Turkey’s pristine coastline in a less crowded environment.

Water Fun at Gökçeada Bay

Next, the boat stops at Gökkaya Bay, where guests have 45 minutes to swim in the breathtaking natural surroundings. The bay is popular for water sports, offering the chance to participate in thrilling activities or simply enjoy floating and relaxing in the clear waters.

This break emphasizes fun and leisure, giving everyone a chance to cool off and take in the scenery from the water.

Visiting the Natural Cave with a Curved Entrance

One of the distinctive features of this tour is the visit to a large natural cave with an impressive curved entrance. Formed over time by natural processes, the cave stands out because of its size and distinctive archway. While the tour does not specify if entry is included, exploring the exterior or photographing the cave is a popular activity.

The cave’s unique shape makes it a memorable photo spot and an interesting geological feature to observe during the boat ride.

Observing Sea Turtles at Karemlik Bay

A particularly special stop is Karemlik Bay, where the tour has a 45-minute window for sea turtle observation. Known for hosting three of the seven sea turtle species in the Mediterranean, this bay offers a rare chance to see these creatures in their natural habitat.

No entry fee is required for this stop, making it a valuable moment for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The chance to witness these magnificent marine animals adds an educational element to the trip.

Exploring Myra and the Rock Tombs

After returning to Demre Port, the tour includes a visit to the ancient site of Myra. Here, visitors can explore 5th-century BC ruins, including a Roman-style theatre and rock tombs carved into the cliffs. The 45-minute stop provides a snapshot of Turkey’s historical layers, although admission tickets for the tombs are not included.

This archaeological site complements the coastal experience, offering insight into the region’s ancient civilizations and architectural ingenuity.

Returning to Kalkan with a Final Stop

The day concludes with a 45-minute return visit to Kalkan, where the tour officially ends. This final stop allows for a brief look at the charming town’s boutiques and coastal views. The relaxed pace ensures travelers have time to reflect on the day’s sights and enjoy the scenic drive back.

The overall itinerary balances active water-based experiences with cultural visits, making it a well-rounded day trip.

Practical Details: Transportation, Pricing, and Inclusions

The tour includes lunch, snorkeling gear, floating mats, and inflatable rings, all designed to enhance the water activities. The price of $95.78 covers most activities, but some site entrance fees—such as the Castle of Simena ($4) and Myra rock tombs ($13)—are not included and payable on-site.

The meeting point is conveniently located in Andifli, with a start time of 8:30 am. The tour’s small-group format provides a more personalized experience, with a maximum of 20 travelers.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Offers

What makes this tour stand out is its careful balance of sightseeing and relaxation. The inclusion of multiple swimming stops at beautiful bays like Esmeralda, Burç, and Gökçeada ensures plenty of water fun. The boat ride offers spectacular views of the underwater ruins of Kekova, and the small group size fosters a more intimate atmosphere.

The focus on natural features like the cave and sea turtle observation adds unique elements not always found on similar tours. The overall pace and the inclusive snorkeling equipment make this trip particularly appealing for those wanting a mix of adventure and leisure.

Kekova Island, Demre, and Myra: A Complete Day in Turkey

This tour delivers a comprehensive look at Turkey’s coastal and archaeological treasures. From the Sunken City to ancient rock tombs, and from serene bays to historic villages, it covers diverse interests. The lunch included and the well-organized stops contribute to a smooth experience.

While some sites require additional payment for entrance, the stunning sea views, ancient ruins, and opportunity to see sea turtles make this an engaging choice for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking a day of sun and sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour provides a lunch during the stop at Esmeralda Bay, included in the $95.78 fee.

Are there any additional costs to be aware of?
Yes, admission fees for the Castle of Simena ($4) and rock tombs in Myra ($13) are not included in the tour price and must be paid on-site.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and less crowded environment.

What activities are included?
Visitors enjoy boat rides, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring historic sites like Myra and Kaleköy. Snorkeling equipment and floating mats are provided.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable clothing, swimming gear, and cash for optional entrance fees and souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, as it involves walking at sites and swimming in bays, but no strenuous activities are required. The pace is manageable for most.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done online through sources like Viator, with confirmation received immediately and easy cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour a good choice?
The combination of scenic boat rides, historic sites, and water activities makes it ideal for those wanting a balanced day of culture, nature, and relaxation. The small group size enhances comfort and interaction.

This Kalkan small-group day trip to Kekova Island, Demre, and Myra offers an engaging, well-organized way to enjoy Turkey’s stunning coastline and ancient marvels, all packed into a single memorable day.