Anapa’s 2025 summer season faces significant challenges due to the lingering effects of a December oil spill, resulting in an official ban on swimming at the resort. Despite health warnings and the presence of oil residue on beaches and in the sea, many people are disregarding the prohibitions and continuing to swim and sunbathe.

On June 3, authorities identified dangerous zones in Anapa related to the ongoing cleanup of fuel oil. The exact locations of these zones are not specifically detailed in the regulations. The Anapa mayor’s office clarified that the restrictions apply only to the beaches themselves and not to the embankments. Details regarding potential fines for violations and enforcement measures remain unclear.

While regional authorities are encouraging tourism to Anapa, suggesting alternatives such as wine tours and hotel stays with pools, tour operators report a decrease in bookings. Some hotels have chosen to remain closed this season to mitigate potential financial losses. Private homeowners are particularly affected, experiencing a significant decline in occupancy rates compared to larger hotel chains.