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
Images and Sources: ChicagoTraveler.com, Thinkstock
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