Kayaking in Turkey
Including Datça Peninsula Coast, Göcek Bays and 12 Islands, and Kekova Sunken City and Simena. On the map.
The vibe
Paddling past submerged Byzantine ruins and silent, pine-fringed inlets feels like moving quietly through an open-air museum. Early summer mornings offer glassy, mirror-flat water before the afternoon thermal breezes kick up along the bays. It is an entirely independent and flexible journey, letting you pull up on deserted pebble beaches whenever the mood strikes.
Datça Peninsula Coast
Muğla
Nevit Dilmen ( talk ) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
A dramatic meeting point of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, featuring limestone cliffs, secluded pebble coves, and crystal-clear waters. Sea kayakers traverse rugged headlands between remote bays accessible only by water or hiking trails.
Access. Access points include Datça harbor and various coastal villages such as Palamutbükü, with local outfitters providing multi-day touring support.
Notes. Meltem winds can create challenging conditions in the afternoon during summer; recommended for intermediate to advanced sea kayakers.
Göcek Bays and 12 Islands
Muğla
Николай Максимович / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Navigate a labyrinth of pine-clad islands, sheltered anchorages, and turquoise bays in the Gulf of Fethiye. This iconic Turkish coastline offers idyllic island-hopping sea kayak touring with warm waters and scenic coves.
Access. Put-in from Göcek marina or Fethiye waterfront. Guided sea kayak expeditions and rentals are readily available locally.
Notes. Sheltered from heavy open-sea swells, making it fantastic for intermediate paddlers. Heavy boat traffic in peak summer requires vigilance.
Kekova Sunken City and Simena
Antalya
Brbbl / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Paddle over the ancient Lycian ruins of Kekova, a protected turquoise bay featuring submerged archaeological remains and cliffside castle views. Sea kayakers explore calm, crystal-clear Mediterranean waters between Üçağız and the striking Simena necropolis.
Access. Put-in typically from the small village of Üçağız (Kalei), where local operators offer guided day tours and kayak rentals.
Notes. Best paddled in morning hours before afternoon coastal winds pick up. Suitable for intermediate and beginner sea kayakers under calm conditions.