Chicago’s charm goes beyond skyscrapers, museums, and restaurants. What truly elevates the Windy City into a land of magic is the lake it’s built on. Along its shores, you’ll find 26 miles of scenic waterfront featuring more than 20 free-to-access beaches.
There’s more than just sunbathing and swimming on offer on the city’s sandy shores. However, for those who want to dive in, beaches are open from 6 AM to 11 PM, and swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best beaches in Chicago.
Rainbow Beach
Best beach for wildlife
Located in the city’s South Shore neighborhood, Rainbow Beach spans over 60 acres of nature. Besides the sandy shore, it features a dune habitat sustaining a wide range of wildlife and the city’s oldest community gardens.
Kayak, canoe, or sunbathe with the city skyline as a backdrop, then indulge in burgers, nachos, hot wings, or snacks at Hot Girlz Grill, a concession stand run by six young women from Chicago.
63rd Street Beach
Best beach for live music
Live music, drinks, cabana rentals, and spectacular sunsets await you at the 63rd Street Beach in the Jackson Park area, thanks to Reggies on the Beach. Even during off-seasons, there’s still plenty to engage with.
Explore the beach house, a Classical Revival-style building erected in 1919 but completed in 2000, featuring interactive water fountains perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts. Bike rentals and bird watching are popular activities here.
57th Street Beach
Best beach for families
At the northern end of Jackson Park, adjacent to the famous Museum of Science and Industry, the 57th Street Beach offers a tranquil environment for families. On warm days, families occupy the shoreline.
Consider stopping at any of the concession stands along the lakefront or venture into Hyde Park for a bite to eat. For a local favorite, Plein Air Cafe comes highly recommended.
Margaret T Burroughs Beach/31st Street Beach
Best beach for dancing
Known for its vibrant house music parties and dance events, the 31st Street Beach (or Margaret T Burroughs Beach) is one of the city’s most popular destinations.
This beach is named after artist and community activist Margaret T Burroughs, who founded the DuSable Museum of African American History. Visitors can enjoy a picnic area above an indoor parking garage, an ADA-accessible playground, and a public fishing dock.
North Avenue Beach
Best beach to party
For those seeking a lively atmosphere, North Avenue Beach is the place to be. Located in Lincoln Park, this neighborhood beach attracts a younger crowd eager for fun. On-site is Castaways, a 22,000 sq ft bar designed to resemble an ocean liner, creating a unique party vibe.
North Avenue Beach also hosts NAB Sports, offering activities like roller hockey, dodgeball, fitness classes, and more. It’s an excellent spot for chess, yoga, and enjoying some people-watching.
12th Street Beach
Best beach for free concerts
Nestled beneath the Adler Planetarium in the Museum Campus precinct, the 12th Street Beach offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle. Perfect for relaxation, visitors may also enjoy the potential of catching a free concert, as Northerly Island, adjacent to the beach, frequently hosts open-air events. Concession stands and restroom facilities enhance visitor comfort.
Oak Street Beach
Best beach for dining
Located on the Gold Coast, Chicago’s upscale neighborhood, Oak Street Beach boasts various activities, from bike rentals and volleyball to diverse dining options beyond typical concessions.
Whispers claims to be “the only restaurant and beach bar in Chicago situated directly on the water,” with a delicious menu featuring seafood favorites like ahi tuna nachos and salmon ceviche. The beach attracts an older crowd and many families enjoying a day by the water.
Ohio Street Beach
Best beach for swimming
Ohio Street Beach is a beloved spot among locals residing in nearby high-rises. Expect to encounter individuals swimming laps in the open water. Its location allows for a shallow beach experience, ensuring swimmers are close to shore at all times.
This intimate beach gets crowded during summer days, so arriving early is advised; typically, the sun disappears behind the high-rises around 3 PM. It’s conveniently located next to Navy Pier and the Jane Addams Memorial Park.
Montrose Beach
Best beach for kiteboarding
Montrose Beach is the sole location where kiteboarding is allowed, making it a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush green fields, visitors partake in soccer, paddleboarding, kayaking, and other activities to stay active. Featuring a designated dog beach at its northern edge, it also offers roaming vendors on the boardwalk.
At the opposite end, a nature area serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds, with a dune habitat that supports endangered plant species.
