From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova, Demre and Myra

Experience the Best of Southern Turkey on a Day Trip from Kas to Kekova, Demre, and Myra

Traveling through Turkey’s southwestern coast, this day trip from Kas offers a balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxing seaside stops. For $77.08 per person, you’ll spend approximately 10 hours exploring the Sunken City of Kekova, the rock tombs of Myra, and the charming Demre harbor. The tour includes hotel pickups and drop-offs, a lunch spread, and a group boat trip that makes it easy to enjoy these highlights without the hassle of planning.

What we really appreciate is how this tour combines large-scale archaeological sites with serene water-based experiences—perfect for those wanting a taste of history and nature without spending hours on their own logistics. The boat ride especially stands out for its scenic views and opportunity to see underwater ruins, and the lunch at Esmeralda Bay offers both great food and a chance to relax by the water.

One consideration is the group size, which can be up to 75 travelers, meaning it might feel a bit crowded at some stops. Also, entry fees to certain sites (like Simena Castle or Myra) are not included, so be prepared for some additional costs if you want to explore further. This tour suits travelers who enjoy structured days with a mix of archaeological exploration and leisure and are comfortable sharing the experience with others.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary offers a mix of ancient ruins, scenic boat rides, and coastal stops.
• Excellent value with included lunch and hotel transfers.
• Authentic experiences like viewing underwater ruins and visiting local villages.
• Flexible stops for swimming and exploring (though some sites require additional entrance fees).
• Guided knowledge from staff who are appreciated for their friendliness and information.
• Crowded group size can be a downside for those seeking a more intimate experience.

Exploring the Full Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting in Kas: A Vibrant Coastal Town

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Kas, a lively town famous for its boutique shops, spectacular sunsets, and coastal views. The tour’s early start—around 8:30 AM—ensures you beat the crowds and make the most of your day. Kas itself is a destination worth exploring independently, thanks to its charming streets and panoramic vistas, but today you’re headed further afield.

Cruise to Kekova: Discover the Sunken City

The boat ride from Demre to Kekova is the tour’s highlight. The famous Sunken City of Dolchiste was submerged due to an earthquake in the 2nd century, and its underwater ruins can be seen from the boat, creating a surreal experience. Guests describe the boat crew as friendly and attentive, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable.

While swimming isn’t permitted here—as Kekova is protected—viewing the underwater remains from the boat offers a unique perspective. You can capture photos of the submerged walls and ancient structures, which leave many visitors saying the images seem almost unreal.

Exploring Kekova Island and Kalekoy Harbour

Next, the boat drops anchor at Kalekoy (Simena), a quaint village with a castle and rock tombs carved into cliffs. You’ll have about an hour to explore the alleyways, snap photos, or take a walk around the castle ruins. Some reviews mention that the castle visit costs extra (around 4 euros), and if you want to climb to the top, you’ll need to decide whether to budget for that.

Visiting Simena Castle and the Necropolis

The castle of Simena offers panoramic views of the surrounding bays, and the rock-cut tombs above the village evoke a sense of ancient craftsmanship. Hikers or those interested in archaeology will enjoy climbing the hillside for spectacular vistas, while others might prefer to relax and soak in the scenery from below.

Seaside Lunch and Water Breaks

Midday, you’ll stop at Gokkaya Bay, Esmeralda Bay, and Burç Bay—some of the most beautiful beaches along the coast. These stops are perfect for taking a dip, soaking up the sun, or just enjoying the peaceful environment. The lunch served at Esmeralda Bay is generally well-reviewed for its generous portions and tasty quality—a real treat after a busy morning on the water.

Spotting Marine Life and Relaxing in Nature

The tour’s water stops also offer chances to swim and snorkel in calmer bays, with the notable highlight being Gökkaya Bay, where many guests have enjoyed swimming alongside sea turtles—an experience that some describe as unreal. The chance to see marine turtles in their natural habitat adds a memorable element to the day.

Demre: Ancient Sites and Santa Claus

In the afternoon, your boat will dock at Demre. Here, the Santa Claus Museum and the Church of St. Nicholas bring the history of St. Nicholas of Myra to life. Visitors appreciate the historical significance of the sites, though some mention that admission fees (ranging from 12 to 20 euros for some sites) are not included.

The rock tombs of Myra, carved into cliffs above the city, are another highlight. You’ll have enough time to wander through the largest Lycian theater, which still hosts events today, and marvel at the rock-cut tombs that seem to stare down from above.

Final Stop: Kas

Your busy day concludes with a 45-minute drive back to Kas, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights. Many reviews mention feeling satisfied with the balance of history, scenery, and relaxation packed into this full-day adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see a variety of sites without the hassle of planning each leg. The group setting fosters camaraderie, and the knowledgeable guides often receive praise for their friendliness and insights. From the underwater ruins of Kekova to the ancient tombs of Myra, you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s Lycian culture.

The boat crew’s professionalism and the quality of food—including a hearty lunch—are consistently mentioned in reviews, making this a value-packed experience. The scenic water stops for swimming and relaxing are highlights, especially for those who enjoy being on or in the water.

However, it’s worth noting that some sites require extra entry fees, so budget accordingly. The group size can also be large, which may impact the intimacy of certain moments. If you prefer a more private or customized experience, this might not be the best fit.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This day trip suits history buffs eager to see Lycian tombs and ancient theaters, as well as nature lovers looking for stunning water-based scenery and turtle sightings. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate organized tours that cover a lot of ground in a single day, especially if you’re based in Kas and want to maximize your sightseeing without extra planning.

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of cultural exploration and leisure, or if you want a comfortable, guided way to see Turkey’s coastal highlights, this trip offers a solid balance of both.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Kas, making the start and end of the day hassle-free.

How long does the entire day last?
The tour is approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 AM and ending back in Kas around 6:30 PM.

What’s the price, and are there extra costs?
The per-person cost is $77.08, which includes lunch and transportation. Be aware that entrance fees for sites like Simena Castle, Myra, and St. Nicholas Church are not included—you should budget a few extra euros if you wish to visit these.

Is swimming allowed at Kekova?
No, swimming isn’t permitted at Kekova itself because it’s a protected area, but you can enjoy swimming at bays nearby like Gökkaya Bay, which many reviews praise.

What’s the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 75 travelers, so if you prefer a more intimate experience, be prepared for a busier environment.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a lunch at Esmeralda Bay, described as delicious and filling. Drinks or additional snacks are not included.

Can I see turtles?
Yes, many guests have swum with turtles at Karemlik Bay, describing the experience as unreal and a highlight of the trip.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Guests frequently mention the friendly and informative guides, who help bring the archaeological sites and natural scenery to life.

To sum it up, this day trip from Kas offers a fantastic blend of historic ruins, scenic boat rides, and relaxing seaside stops. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a guided, all-in-one experience that’s both informative and leisurely. While it’s not the most private tour, the value for money and variety of highlights make it a strong choice for most visitors eager to explore Turkey’s captivating coastline.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a water lover, or simply someone who wants to see as much as possible in a day, this trip will leave you with memorable stories—and plenty of beautiful photos.