Tony,
My intent was to show the dramatic light and sky, that came over the Aktau area close to sunset. I had walked in the morning in the same beach, close to the hotel where I was staying. I have uploaded some more photos to show the area in that same morning, with more sunshine.
Yes, the area is bleak, as the facilities in the beach are crumbling and rusty, for lack of maintenance. However, people are very friendly, and they do use the beach.
Regards