Seeing the Kekova ruins from a kayak is a different experience from seeing them from a boat. A day boat is large, its engine is audible, and you look down from a height. In a sea kayak you sit just above the water, glide slowly over the old walls and stairways, and can stop to hold position above a doorway or a stepped quay while the guide explains what you are looking at. The sheltered channel between Kekova Island and the mainland is usually calm, so the paddling is gentle and suited to anyone who is reasonably fit, even with no previous kayaking. Small-group kayak tours typically begin with a transfer from Kaş to the launch point near Üçağız, a short safety briefing and fitting of a life jacket, and then a paddle along the shore with several rests. Double kayaks are common, which means beginners can share with a stronger paddler. Along the route you pass Lycian sarcophagi standing in the water, the half-submerged remains of the ancient town, and the foot of the hill below Kaleköy and its castle. A swim stop and a simple lunch or snack usually follow, and you return to Kaş in the afternoon.
Who it suits
You do not need experience, but you do need to be comfortable in water and able to paddle for a couple of hours with breaks. The pace is set by the group, so the tour is realistic for fit older children and teenagers when an operator allows it, but ask about minimum ages before you go. If you have a bad shoulder or back, mention it at the briefing, because the guides can adjust the route and pair you with a stronger paddler.
What to wear and bring
Swimwear under quick-drying clothes, a hat that can be strapped on, sunglasses with a retainer cord, water shoes, sun cream, and a dry bag if the operator does not provide one. Leave valuables at your hotel, since there is little secure storage on the shore. Drinking water is normally provided, but bring your own bottle to be safe. The guides carry a waterproof camera or will let you stow a phone in a dry bag, so you can still take pictures of the stairways under the water.
How it compares
Boat trips cover more ground and visit the village of Kaleköy and its castle, while kayaking gives a closer and quieter look at the sunken ruins and a lot more exercise. There are also longer expeditions that add the ancient site of Aperlai on the coast, and private kayaking outings for couples or families who want a bespoke route. Many people do both, a boat trip one day and a paddle another, to see the same coastline from two angles.
Conditions and seasons
Kayaking is best from late spring to early autumn, when the sea is warm and the wind is light. In the afternoon the sea breeze can build, which is why many tours start early. If the wind is too strong for safe paddling, operators may change the route or reschedule, so keep a spare day in your plans. The water is clear, so do not forget to look down: on a bright day you can pick out tiled floors and stone steps from the seat of your kayak.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-group sea-kayaking outing along the Kekova shore with briefing, paddling rests, a swim stop and light food.
Best time
Mornings from late spring to early autumn, when the sea is calmest.
How long
Several hours on the water, with transfers making it a half to full day.
Tips
Wear a hat with a strap, bring water shoes and a dry bag, and tell the guide about any shoulder or back issues.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers and couples who want a quieter, closer view of the ruins.
- Families
- Fit older children and teenagers may join where the operator allows, so ask about minimum ages.
- Couples
- Sharing a double kayak over the drowned stairways is a memorable half day.
- Pair with
- A shared Kekova boat day, Demre and Myra, or a relaxed evening in Kaş.
- Time needed
- A half to full day.
Good questions
Do I need kayaking experience?+
No. Double kayaks, a briefing and a guide are standard, and the Kekova channel is sheltered. You should be comfortable in water and able to paddle for a couple of hours.
Can I take photos?+
Yes, but use a waterproof case or a dry bag. Guides often carry a waterproof camera as well.
Is it better than the boat trip?+
They offer different things. The boat covers more ground and the village of Kaleköy, while kayaking gets you closer to the water and the ruins.
What if it is windy?+
Operators may change the route or reschedule when the sea is rough, so keep a spare day in your plans.
Is lunch included?+
Most tours include a snack or simple lunch, but check what your tour provides and bring water.