Gelendzhik, a popular resort town, was already a sought-after vacation destination 50 years ago, attracting numerous tourists from across the Soviet Union. Photos from the 1970s showcase crowded beaches and a bustling atmosphere.

The accessibility of Gelendzhik was significantly boosted by its civil airport, which began operating in the mid-1950s. The airport, located on Tonkiy Mys, handled up to 34 flights daily, connecting the resort to major cities such as Moscow, Krasnodar, and Rostov-on-Don. This made it easy for tourists from all over the Soviet Union to reach Gelendzhik.

Notably, Gelendzhik’s beaches were transformed in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Prior to this period, the beaches were covered with pebbles; however, the discovery of large sand deposits in the bay led to the creation of the sandy beaches that are now characteristic of Gelendzhik. This development coincided with the city being granted the status of an all-Union resort.