Best Summer Beach Destinations in Chicago, Illinois, United States
1. North Avenue Beach
Chicago's largest beach featuring stunning Lake Michigan views, volleyball courts, and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Beach Activities: Offers volleyball, paddleboarding, and kayaking rentals
- Food Options: Has a variety of food vendors and cafes nearby
- Events: Hosts the Chicago Air & Water Show annually in August
2. Oak Street Beach
Upscale beach with a beautiful promenade, cabanas for rent, and easy access to downtown Chicago.
- Amenities: Features luxury restrooms, showers, and changing rooms
- Nightlife: Surrounded by popular bars and restaurants for nighttime fun
- Privacy: Offers cabana rentals for a more private beach experience
3. Montrose Beach
Popular spot for dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts with sports courts, an off-leash dog area, and a scenic lakefront path.
- Pet-Friendly: Features an expansive off-leash dog area
- Sports Facilities: Offers basketball, tennis, and soccer courts
- Scenic Walks: Adjacent to the Lakefront Trail for scenic walks or biking
4. North Pond Beach
A smaller, quieter beach with a picturesque view of Chicago's skyline and a nearby nature sanctuary.
- Quiet Environment: Less crowded compared to larger beaches
- Nature Sanctuary: Adjoins a nature sanctuary for birdwatching and wildlife observation
- Picnic Spots: Has designated picnic areas for relaxed outdoor meals
5. June's Beach
A hidden gem with crystal-clear waters and a laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxation.
- Clear Waters: Known for its clear water that's perfect for swimming
- Intimate Setting: Smaller, less crowded beach for a more intimate experience
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan
6. Calumet Park Beach
A secluded beach with calm waters, fishing, and a picnic area, perfect for families.
- Fishing: Allows fishing along the shoreline
- Picnic Area: Has a dedicated picnic area for outdoor meals
- Calm Waters: Features calmer waters ideal for families and young children
7. 26th Street Beach
A lively beach with a vibrant atmosphere, food vendors, and various activities.
- Food Options: Features a variety of food vendors on-site
- Activities: Offers water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding
- Entertainment: Hosts live music events during the summer season
8. Rainbow Beach
A unique beach with rainbow-colored sand, perfect for creating fun memories.
- Colorful Sand: Famous for its naturally occurring rainbow-colored sand
- Family-Friendly: Ideal for families looking for a fun and unique beach experience
- Scenic Views: Offers picturesque views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline
9. Diversey Harbor Beach
A small beach with a serene atmosphere, ideal for reading, sunbathing, or napping.
- Quiet Environment: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful and quiet beach experience
- Scenic Views: Offers scenic views of downtown Chicago's skyline
- Accessibility: Easily accessible via public transportation
10. Loyola Beach
A less crowded beach with a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline and easy access to Loyola University.
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the city's skyline
- Less Crowded: Typically less crowded compared to other beaches
- University Access: Conveniently located near Loyola University Chicago
11. California Avenue Beach
A family-friendly beach with a playground, picnic area, and easy access to nearby amenities.
- Family-Friendly: Ideal for families with children due to its playground and picnic area
- Easy Access: Located near shops, restaurants, and public transportation
- Activities: Offers a variety of activities for all ages
12. Edgewater Beach
A spacious beach with a scenic promenade, basketball courts, and easy access to Edgewater Park.
- Scenic Promenade: Features a beautiful scenic promenade for walks or biking
- Sports Facilities: Offers basketball and beach volleyball courts
- Nearby Park: Adjoins Edgewater Park for additional recreational opportunities
13. Winnemac Beach
A peaceful beach with a serene atmosphere and easy access to nearby parks and playgrounds.
- Peaceful Environment: Ideal for those seeking a tranquil and relaxing beach experience
- Nearby Parks: Located near several parks, playgrounds, and sports fields
- Scenic Views: Offers scenic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan
14. Bridgett's Beach
A secluded beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or reading.
- Calm Waters: Features calmer waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing
- Secluded Setting: A less crowded, more intimate beach experience
- Scenic Views: Offers picturesque views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan
15. Belmont Harbor Beach
A lively beach with boat tours, kayak rentals, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
- Activities: Offers boat tours, kayak rentals, and other water activities
- Scenic Views: Features breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan
- Accessibility: Conveniently located near public transportation and restaurants