There is still time left to visit one of the many beaches in Chicago. Here is a comprehensive guide to some of the best in North Chicago and South Chicago! Interested in getting out on the water? Become a Carefree Boat Club Chicago member today!

North Chicago Beaches

• Illinois Beach State Park
  • Named a National Natural Landmark in 1980.
  • Great for camping, hiking and biking!
• Rogers Ave. Beach
  • Small beach.
  • Has tennis courts!
• Pratt Boulevard Beach
  • Seperated by a long pier.
  • Well known “jewel” in Chicago community.
• Kathy Osterman Beach
  • Divided into two parts.
  • Considered “best kept secret” in Chicago!
  • Clean, unlittered with white sands!
  • Spectacular views of Lake Michigan
  • Concessions, volleyball and great for families!
  • Parking is limited.
• Foster Avenue Beach
  • Man made beach.
  • Hardly ever crowded with free and cheap parking!
  • Great spot for relaxing without tourists but not much of a view of Chicago!
• Montrose Dog Beach
  • Chicago’s largest beach!
  • Dog friendly
  • Many options for parking
  • Recently remodeled with 3,000 sq. ft. deck and full service restaurant! The Dock at Montrose Beach
• North Ave. Beach
  • Most popular!
  • Bike/Equipment Rental
  • Bar and Restaurant, Castaways
  • Concession Stand
  • Lifeguards and public restrooms.
  • Volleyball
• Oak Street Beach
  • 1 1/2 miles long
  • Largest area of deep water swimming in the city
  • Chess pavilion
  • Restaurant, Oak Street Beachstro (currently closed)
• Olive Park Beach
  • Also known as Ohio Street beach
  • Ideal for water swimming long distances in shallow water.

South Chicago Beaches

• 12th Street Beach
  • Also known as 14th Street Beach
  • Restrooms
  • Concessions
  • Open water swimming
• 31st Street Beach
  • Located in Burnham Park
  • Great for picnics
  • Fabulous view of Chicago
• 57th Street Beach
  • Located in Hyde Park neighborhood.
  • Across the street from the Museum of Science and Industry
• 63rd Street Beach
  • Located in Jackson Park
  • Home to oldest beach house in the city.
  • Primarily used for special events and boaters.
• South Shore Beach
  • Located behind the South Shore Cultural Center.
  • Country Club includes ballroom, restaurant, golf course and tennis courts
• Rainbow Beach
  • Famously known for “Freedom Wade-In” during protest of 1919 Race Riot in Chicago

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Images and Sources: ChicagoTraveler.com, Thinkstock

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