Sea Kayaking & SUP

Boat & Sea

The Ölüdeniz lagoon is one of the best places to try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking: the water is shallow, warm and protected from waves, and there are no motorboats inside the lagoon. You can rent a board or kayak by the hour on the beaches of Ölüdeniz and Çalış (mornings are calmer in Çalış, where the afternoon wind picks up). Guided sea-kayak tours set off from Gemiler beach and paddle along the coast to Gemiler (St Nicholas) Island with its Byzantine ruins, stopping in coves to swim and snorkel; guides provide kayaks, life jackets and a safety briefing, so no experience is needed.

Key facts

  • Location: Ölüdeniz / Çalış / Gemiler beach
  • Duration: 1-hour rental to a half-day guided tour (~5 hours)
  • Season: May – October
  • Estimated cost: SUP rental around $20 per hour; guided kayak tour roughly $70–90 – check locally

Highlights

  • Flat, sheltered water in the Ölüdeniz lagoon
  • Paddling to Gemiler (St Nicholas) Island
  • SUP at Çalış and Ölüdeniz beaches
  • Hidden coves only reachable from the water

Frequently asked questions

How do I book Sea Kayaking & SUP?

Rentals: just walk up to the water-sports stands on Ölüdeniz and Çalış beaches. Guided tours: book through local operators or booking sites; transfers from Fethiye, Hisarönü and Ölüdeniz are often included.

Any local tips for Sea Kayaking & SUP?

You need to be able to swim; always wear the life jacket. Go in the morning before the wind rises, use waterproof sun cream and a hat – the sun reflecting off the water burns fast. A dry bag keeps your phone safe.

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