Kalkan: Day Trip To Demre, Myra And Kekova Island

Kalkan’s day trip to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island offers an exceptional opportunity to discover Turkey’s rich history and natural beauty. Travelers can explore the partially submerged Kekova Sunken City, swim in crystal-clear waters, and marvel at the picturesque Simena Castle. With a starting price of $80.55 per person, this full-day excursion promises an immersive cultural and natural experience. Whether you’re captivated by the region’s Byzantine heritage or simply seeking to bask in its stunning landscapes, this day trip may just be the highlight of your Turkish adventure.

Key Points

A full-day trip from Kalkan covering historic sites like Demre, Myra, and the Kekova region, including the Sunken City and Simena Castle.
Prices start at $80.55 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option.
The itinerary includes a boat cruise to Kekova Island, swimming and snorkeling at Esmeralda Koyu and Gokkaya Bay, and exploring the Pirates Cave.
The Kekova Sunken City offers a unique opportunity to see the preserved remains of an ancient Byzantine settlement submerged due to a 2nd-century earthquake.
Simena Castle, perched atop a rocky outcrop, provides stunning views of the Kekova region and a chance to explore ancient fortifications and ruins.

Trip Details

This full-day trip from Kalkan takes travelers to the historic sites of Demre, Myra, and the stunning Kekova Island, with prices starting at $80.55 per person.

Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, this excursion covers an extensive itinerary. Guests will cruise to Kekova Island to explore the Sunken City, visit Simena Castle, swim in crystal-clear waters, and observe sea turtles.

They’ll also visit St. Nicholas Church, the Myra Ruins, and more, with lunch included.

Meeting point details are provided one day prior to the trip, and travelers should bring essentials like towels and sunscreen.

Itinerary

The full-day trip begins with a drive from Kalkan to Demre Harbor, which takes approximately 1 hour.

Once at the harbor, guests will board a boat for a cruise to Kekova Island and the Sunken City. After exploring the island, they’ll visit Simena Castle where they’ll have free time to shop and explore.

Next, they’ll swim and snorkel at Esmeralda Koyu and Gokkaya Bay before visiting Pirates Cave and observing sea turtles at Karemlik Bay.

The tour then moves on to the historic St. Nicholas Church and Myra Ruins before the return trip to Kalkan, which also takes around 1 hour.

Marvel at Kekova Sunken City

Beneath the shimmering turquoise waters of Kekova Island, travelers uncover the captivating ruins of the Kekova Sunken City, a testament to the region’s rich history and natural wonders.

This partially submerged ancient town was once a thriving Byzantine settlement, now preserved underwater due to a 2nd century earthquake.

Visitors can marvel at the ghostly stone walls, staircases, and other structures that have been swallowed by the sea, creating an eerie yet mesmerizing sight.

As guests glide over the clear waters on a boat, they’ll be able to peer down and glimpse the sunken remains, providing a unique window into the past.

This remarkable destination is a highlight of the day trip, offering a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore a lost civilization.

Swim in Crystal-Clear Waters

After marveling at the sunken ruins of Kekova, visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island. Esmeralda Koyu and Gokkaya Bay offer prime swimming and snorkeling spots, allowing guests to cool off and admire the vibrant marine life.

Spot	Depth	Visibility	Marine Life	Temperature
Esmeralda Koyu	10-25 ft	Excellent	Corals, fish, sea turtles	75°F (24°C)
Gokkaya Bay	15-30 ft	Exceptional	Sponges, sea urchins, octopus	72°F (22°C)

These crystal-clear, turquoise waters provide the perfect opportunity to explore the region’s underwater wonders and escape the warm Mediterranean sun.

Admire Simena Castle

Perched atop a rocky outcrop, Simena Castle commands stunning views over the Kekova region, inviting visitors to explore its ancient fortifications and soak in the tranquil ambiance.

As part of the full-day trip to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island, guests will have the opportunity to wander through the castle’s weathered walls and admire its well-preserved ruins.

The castle’s strategic location provides a glimpse into the area’s rich history, with the remnants of towers and battlements hinting at its former defensive capabilities.

Visitors can stroll through the castle’s grounds, taking in the breathtaking vistas of the sparkling turquoise waters and the nearby Sunken City, before heading back to the boat for the next leg of the adventure.

Explore Pirates Cave

As part of the day trip, visitors have the chance to explore the enigmatic Pirates Cave, where the remnants of a bygone era beckon.

Tucked away along the rugged coastline, the cave’s weathered entrance reveals a glimpse into the region’s storied past, when daring seafarers once sought refuge within its secluded confines.

Upon stepping inside, the cave’s cavernous interior comes into view, its walls adorned with centuries-old graffiti and markings left by the sailors who sought shelter here.

Visitors can imagine the tales that these cave walls could tell, from dramatic escapes to legendary treasures hidden within.

Exploring this unique site offers a captivating window into the area’s rich maritime history.

Observe Sea Turtles

Along the scenic coastline, visitors can observe the graceful movements of sea turtles gliding through the crystal-clear waters. These majestic creatures are a highlight of the day trip, offering a chance to witness their natural behaviors up close.

Guests may spot them surfacing to breathe or diving back into the depths, a captivating sight that provides a deeper appreciation for the marine life found in this region.

The day’s itinerary includes a stop at Karemlik Bay, where sea turtles are often spotted resting on the rocks or swimming nearby. With patience and a keen eye, travelers can enjoy an intimate encounter with these prehistoric reptiles, a truly memorable experience during the Kekova Island excursion.

Inclusions and Additional Information

The day trip includes a provided lunch to fuel visitors throughout the exciting itinerary. Plus, meeting point details are communicated to participants one day prior to the scheduled departure, allowing for smooth coordination. Travelers are advised to bring a towel and sunscreen to optimize comfort and protect against the Mediterranean sun during the various activities.