The question is right in the title. I know the Caspian coast in Dagestan is quite popular, but how about the Kazakh and Turkmen shores? Are they good for swimming?
Kazakhstan’s Caspian coast is nice around Aktau in Mangyshlak. From Fort Shevchenko to Aktau and 100 kilometers further south, the beaches are frequented in season (meaning you might share a 2-3 km beach with one or two groups). However, they’re often littered. North of Fort Shevchenko, there are virtually no people, but the roads require a jeep.
The most pristine spot is Kenderli Bay, closer to the Turkmen border, with sandy beaches and warm water. Except for Nazarbayev’s private resort, you’ll find no one or nothing within 50 kilometers. Be prepared for temperatures of +40°C to +50°C in the shade, which you’ll need to create yourself. The nearest shop is 100 kilometers away across the desert.
In Turkmenistan, there’s Avaza, a well-known beach resort area.
In Turkmenistan, the city of Turkmenbashi (formerly Krasnovodsk) offers a great beach in the village of Avaza. It features white sand and a lovely shoreline, though visas can be an issue.
In Kazakhstan, in Aktau itself, there are a few developed beaches like “Nurplaza,” “Dostar,” and “Manila,” where you can relax comfortably. Dostar even has a hotel. Heading toward MAEK, you’ll find various paid resorts with fantastic sandy beaches.
Within Aktau, the shore is rocky, and the water tends to be colder than outside the city. For wild camping, head toward the port and beyond, where there are untouched sandy beaches—but only accessible with a jeep.
As for Kenderli, it’s far—about a two-hour drive from Aktau. It’s also incredibly hot, especially in August.
Reviving the thread! We're planning a vacation next August or September. How hot is it in Aktau during that time, and is it suitable for a child?
We’re considering Balkhash and Alakol as alternatives. Any recommendations?
The plan is a beach holiday with some driving excursions to local attractions (we have an SUV). However, we’ll be staying overnight in Aktau in a rented apartment. Why Aktau and the Caspian? Who knows—it just feels right. We’ve never been to Kazakhstan, and it’s as far as Sochi from us. Balkhash and Alakol are closer, but I hear there’s no way to rent private housing at Alakol beyond resort options. We’re looking specifically for an apartment or house so we can cook ourselves.
You can find private accommodations at Alakol outside of the resorts. Locals in nearby villages rent out rooms, but you’ll need to negotiate meals separately. Keep in mind that this type of housing is rustic, with facilities often located outdoors.
Regarding the weather, my latest visit to Alakol was until August 20. The water was warm, but the lake was noticeably stormy for a few days. They say it varies year by year, and early September can still be great for swimming, but by then, most resorts close. The new, more luxurious resorts have exorbitant prices.
Also, understand that Alakol offers no attractions beyond the lake itself. There’s nowhere to go. Balkhash is similar. The main resort experience there involves staying at a base camp, moving into a cottage, and relaxing until you’re done—cooking and handling everything on your own.
In Mangyshlak, however, there are plenty of sights to explore if you have your own vehicle (see detailed reports by Varandey on LiveJournal). As for the water temperature, I can’t say—I was only there in June.