Keri Sea Caves

Explore the clear waters on an organised excursion or take a kayak to get up close to this stunning, must-see attraction. Diving and snorkelling options are available too, or you can simply enjoy the views of the sea caves below, from the village of Keri. 

At least one tour operator combines a guided kayak excursion with up to 20km of cycling, about half of it off road, to Keri harbour, followed by about three-and-a-half hours at sea, with snorkelling equipment, lunch and photography included. Check with your hotel.

There’s a chance you might also come nearly face-to-face with caretta caretta, or loggerhead sea turtles, which lay their eggs on Laganas and other beaches in the Ionian Sea.

Some itineraries include the ‘turtle island’ of Marathonisi, a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling in welcoming, turquoise waters surrounding a stunning, lush landscape – although sometimes parts of beaches are roped off for nesting turtles.

The turtles are endangered and protected, so you need be aware of the guidelines.

You are advised not to spend more than 15 minutes near the same turtle, and to keep more than 10 metres away, and especially not to crowd around turtles with other swimmers or kayakers. Keep voices down and other noise to a minimum, do not swim or paddle too fast, and certainly do not attempt to touch any of the turtles.

Keri itself is quite a well-developed village resort, with a selection of restaurants and tavernas, while the view from the old lighthouse, sitting on a 300m cliff, is one of the most celebrated in the islands.