Kameriye Island
Marmaris Boat Trips Make Wishes Come True
By Slowtravelguide
Those who are familiar with this website, know that we will never refuse to travel by boat. We like to be at sea, or we want to explore the Turkish Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines. Can you blame us? The beauty of the turquoise waters, inlets, islands and peninsulas is fantastic. Therefore, any excuse to set sail is a good excuse.
In this case, just looking at the pictures of the destroyed Greek church on Kameriye Island is enough to know that we only need to take a proper look at it. You also need to visit if you like romantic surroundings, impressive trees, and the most fantastic pebble mosaics! Check out the photos in this article, and get ready to add Kameriye Island (or Kamelya Island) to your wish list.
One Word? Dramatic!
Kameriye Island Or Kamelya Island?
We could not find a reliable source to tell us more about the different names used on the island. If you look at the map, the island’s name today is Kameriye, but many boat trips advertise it as Kamelya. Regardless of its name, this beautiful island on the coast of the Bozburun Peninsula near Selimiye is a gem. It does not matter about its name or history; just spending some time there is enough to make you fall in love with this place.
Golden Hour At Kameriye Island
What Are Your Expectations For The Kameriye Trip?
In addition to the scenic 20 minute boat trip from Selimiye, the bays around Kameriye are great for snorkelling and swimming. The water is crystal clear, and—especially if you are equipped with some good snorkelling equipment—you will have the opportunity to see colourful starfish, sponges and sea urchins, to name a few.
There are only a few goats on the island and the remains of an Orthodox church with a history of 1,800 years. An online article in Hürriyet Daily News even mentions that this place is considered the second home of the Virgin Mary in Turkey.
Part Of The Pebble Mosaic Lost The Battle Against Time
The Pebble Mosaic Courtyard Is Mindblowingly Beautiful!
The path leading to the church is easy to walk, and from there, you can see amazing views. Outside, the mosaic cobblestone courtyard is work of art, especially with the blue water and the Bozburun Peninsula as a background.
There is a centuries olive tree in the middle of the courtyard, which is older than the church. Tourists on the island turned it into a wishing tree. We did not leave a ribbon because our wish had been fulfilled: no one could be seen on the island at sunset. Amazing!
Enjoying The Sunset At Kameriye
Inside the church, you will find traces of other tourists burning candles in front of what appears to be a fresco. We are not sure about its authenticity! A few years ago, the government approved a plan to turn the island into a wedding venue after restoring the church.
What To Expect
How To Get There: By boat (check the map below).
Nearest Airport: Dalaman Airport.
Parking: Yes.
Terrain: Easy.
Stroller: No.
Entrance fee: A small fee for the boats.
Facilities: No.
Best Time To Visit: All year, depending on the weather.
Although we can see how romantic it would be to get married here, we secretly hope that this place will remain the same and become a silent witness to the Greek community that once lived on the island. Nevertheless, protection is still a challenge.
There are more than 1,000 tourists every day during the peak season, and not all tourists treat this gem with due respect.
The Back Of The Church.
You Can See Right Through It
Kameriye Is A Popular Stop For Marmaris Boat Trips
There are cruises from Selimiye on the Bozburun Peninsula to Kameriye several times a day during the tourist season. A boat trip from Marmaris may not go as far as Kameriye, so it is best to plan this as a tour to the Bozburun Peninsula and then take a boat.
Even in the off-season, you should be able to find local fishermen who are willing to take you to the island for a small fee. This is our preferred method because it allows you to visit at your own pace and create the opportunity to enjoy the place exclusively.
You Can Still See How The Church Used To Be Painted
Practical Information
Although the island is small, not all trails are easy to walk. Therefore, if you plan to explore this little spot in the sea, wear suitable walking shoes. If you like snorkelling, this is a place to bring your gear! End your day at one of Selimiye’s many waterside restaurants, and enjoy a sunset dinner with a view.
If you have any questions about a place, feel free to ask. You can send us a message through our contact page or leave a comment on our Instagram or Facebook pages.
You can also join our group Turkey Travel Photography on Facebook to share your lovely photos or experiences about Turkey.
Places Nearby
Bozburun Peninsula, is one of the top things to do from Marmaris! (11 km)
Gorgeous sights to visit in Marmaris Turkey, (24 km)
Sedir Island, home to Cleopatra Beach & Kedrai ancient site (32 km)
A visit to quaint Datça and ancient Knidos, (35 km)
Places We Recommend
St. Nicholas Island
Gemile island is an abandoned island just off the coast of Gemile Beach, not far from Kayaköy. (Read more)
Sedir Island
Sometimes culture and nature coexist. This is the case with Spider-Island, a picturesque island tucked away in the Gökova Bay between Akyaka and Marmaris. (Coming soon)
Af Kule
If you are in the Fethiye area and like to take beautiful short walks along walking trails, head to Af Kule to enjoy the views. (Read more)
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