Wait, there are beaches in Chicago? Yes, and there are more than just a few!
The city features 24 official beaches along 26 miles of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline. These beaches offer a variety of experiences, from family-friendly activities to serene, lesser-known spots.
If you’re planning a summer visit or want to explore more beaches throughout the city, here is your ultimate guide to Chicago’s beaches.
It includes essential information such as opening dates and tips for making the most of your time so you can soak up every sun-drenched moment along Chicago’s iconic lakefront.
Chicago Beaches 101: What to Know Before You Go
What to Know About Chicago Beaches
When Do Chicago Beaches Open?
The official beach season runs from the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day. Most beaches are open from 6 am to 11 pm, but swimming is only permitted during the beach season when lifeguards are on duty from 11 am to 7 pm, in designated swim areas.
Outside of those hours, swim with caution as these Lake Michigan waters are nothing to be played with.
Are Chicago Beaches Free?
Yes, admission to all Chicago beaches is 100% free!
Which Chicago beaches are wheelchair-accessible?
The Montrose, North Avenue, 31st Street, 63rd Street, and South Shore beaches are among the accessible options. Some locations even offer free beach wheelchairs, just bring a valid ID.
I do not see an entrance to the beach. How do I get to it?
For beaches along Lake Shore Drive, use marked pedestrian underpasses or overpasses. Avoid unsafe crossings or jaywalking. Most beaches also connect directly to the Lakefront Trail, making them easily accessible by bike or on foot.
Is it safe to swim at Chicago beaches?
Only swim when lifeguards are on duty (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.) and within designated swim areas. A red flag means no swimming due to unsafe conditions.
Is parking available at Chicago beaches?
Yes, but it’s limited. Some beaches offer free or metered parking, though spots fill up fast. Public transit, Divvy bikes, or walking are often the easiest options to get to the Chicago beaches.
Can I bring alcohol or glass bottles to the beach?
Nope. Alcohol and glass containers are prohibited on all Chicago beaches. Save the drinks for a post-beach patio.
Are dogs allowed on Chicago beaches?
Dogs are only allowed at designated dog-friendly beaches like Montrose Dog Beach. Otherwise, leave pups at home.
Top Chicago Beaches
Chicago is home to many incredible beaches, but these lakefront spots remain local favorites for their views, vibe, and easy access.
Jump to: Montrose | 63rd | 31st | North Ave | Oak Street
Montrose Beach
4400 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive
Montrose Beach is Chicago’s oldest and largest beach, located near the Uptown neighborhood. It’s a go-to spot for kayaking, volleyball, and soaking up the sun in a laid-back environment. Grab a bite or sip a cocktail at The Dock at Montrose Beach, and take advantage of convenient amenities like restrooms, outdoor showers, and an ADA-accessible beach walk. Pet parents will love the designated dog beach on the north end, while nature lovers can explore the dune habitat to the south, especially beautiful during bird migration seasons.
Getting There:
- CTA Buses: 78 Montrose, 81 Lawrence, 151 Sheridan
- CTA Red Line: Lawrence or Wilson
- Parking: Pay-and-display lots and street parking are available
What’s Nearby: Restaurants, Culture, and Events
Extend your Montrose beach day by spending some time in the Uptown and Buena Park neighborhoods. These gems are just a short walk or drive from the beach.
63rd Street Beach
6300 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive
A local favorite with deep historic roots, 63rd Street Beach sits in the heart of Jackson Park on the South Side. Known for its grand Classical Revival beach house, this beach offers accessible mats, bike rentals, restrooms, and concessions, including Reggie’s on the Beach, which serves food and live music during summer. It’s also home to a non-motorized boat launch and a natural area for bird watching.
Getting There
- CTA Buses: 6 Jackson Park Express, 15 Jeffery Local, 26 South Shore Express, 28 Stony Island,55 Garfield, 59 59th/61st, 63 63rd, 67 67th/69th/71st
- CTA Green Line: Cottage Grove
- Metra Electric: 63rd Street Station
- Parking: Pay-and-display lot available
What’s Nearby: Restaurants, Culture, and Events
Enjoy the Chicago neighborhoods of Hyde Park and Woodlawn with these nearby activities and events.
31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach)
3100 S. Lake Shore Drive
A scenic, activity-filled stretch of the South Side lakefront, 31st Street Beach, officially named Margaret T. Burroughs Beach, offers one of the best skyline views in the city. It’s known for its inclusive atmosphere, multiple on-site restaurants, including Pier 31 Restaurant and Salerno’s Nautical Playpen. You can also rent jet skis, boats, kayaks, paddle boards at the Chicago Water Sport Rentals. Not into the beach life? Check out the fenced-in public skate facility or the on-site public pool.
Getting There
- CTA Buses: 3 King Drive, 4 Cottage Grove,35 31st/35th
- Closest Train: Green Line to 35th-Bronzeville-IT + bus or walk
- Parking: Pay-and-display lot available
What’s Nearby: Restaurants, Culture, and Events
The Bronzeville neighborhood is rich in history and culture. Take your beach day to the next level by experiencing these fun things to do in the area.
North Avenue Beach
1600 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive(North Ave. and Lake Michigan)
North Avenue Beach is one of Chicago’s most iconic and energetic lakefront destinations, featuring a sleek, ocean liner-inspired beach house. Visitors can lounge in rental chairs, enjoy beachside eats at Castaways or Shore Club, take fitness or yoga classes, or rent paddleboards and jet skis. The beach is ADA-accessible and packed with amenities, from volleyball courts to beachwear vendors. It also connects directly to the Lakefront Trail, making it a hub for summer events and easy access to nearby parks and neighborhoods.
Getting There
- CTA Buses: 72 North, 76 Diversey, 145 Wilson/Michigan Express, 146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express, 147 Outer Drive Express, 151 Sheridan
- Closest Train: Red Line stop at Clark/Division
- Parking: Pay-and-display lot available
What’s Nearby: Restaurants, Culture, and Events
North Avenue Beach is near the Lincoln Park and Old Town neighborhoods, hot spots for restaurants, bars, and entertainment.
| Restaurants and Bars | Attractions | Summer Events |
| All Too Well | Lincoln Park Zoo | Green City Market |
| Ranalli’s | Chicago History Museum | Chicago Air and Water Show |
| J Parker | The Second City | Old Town Art Fair |
Oak Street Beach
1000 N. Lake Shore Drive (at Oak Street)
This glamorous, centrally located beach is one of Chicago’s most iconic lakefront hangouts, perfect for sunbathing, skyline selfies, and people-watching. Rent a chair, join a volleyball game, or grab a bite at Whisper’s at Oak Street Beach. Distance swimming is allowed along designated areas, and there are bike and volleyball rentals available. Don’t miss the “You Know What You Should Do” mural by Jeff Zimmermann, promoting beach cleanliness. Oak Street Beach is home to amateur and pro volleyball tournaments all summer long.
Getting There
- CTA Bus Routes: 22 Clark, 36 Broadway, 151 Sheridan
- CTA Red Line: Clark/Division
- Parking: Limited street parking nearby
What’s Nearby: Restaurants, Culture, and Events
Oak Street Beach is within walking distance of many exciting attractions and popular shopping destinations. Nearby, stroll the scenic Lakefront Trail or explore the high-end shops of the Magnificent Mile just a few blocks away.
| Restaurants and Bars | Attractions | Summer Events |
| Cafecito | Museum of Contemporary Art | Gold Coast Art Fair |
| Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House | Magnificent Mile | SOAR Farmers Market |
| 3 Arts Club Cafe | 360 Chicago | Chicago Air and Water Show |
The Haute Seeker’s 3 Favorite Chicago Beaches
Looking for beaches that are unique, fun, and just a little bit off the grid? These are our top picks when it’s time to hit the sand.
1. 12th Street Beach | 1200 S. Linn White Dr.
Why I love it: Tucked behind the Adler Planetarium, this low-key spot offers unbeatable views of the skyline, perfect for sunset swims or quiet weekday lounging.
2. South Shore Beach | 7059 S. South Shore Dr.
Why I love it: Wrapped in the elegance of the South Shore Cultural Center, this beach feels like a mini escape filled with local history and lakefront beauty.
3. Humboldt Beach | Humboldt Park, near W. North Ave. & N. California Ave.
Why I love it: It’s not Lake Michigan, but it’s a hidden inland beach with a lagoon view, perfect for laid-back picnics and people-watching in the heart of the West Side.
A List of All of Chicago’s Beaches Plus a Map
Not every beach in Chicago gets the spotlight, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth a visit. Here is a list of every beach in Chicago. For the most current information, including beach conditions and accessibility, visit the Chicago Park District’s official website.
North Side Beaches (Rogers Park, Edgewater, Uptown)
- Juneway Beach – 7751 N. Eastlake Terrace
- Rogers Beach – 7705 N. Eastlake Terrace
- Howard Beach – 7519 N. Eastlake Terrace
- Fargo Beach – 1300 W. Fargo Ave.
- Loyola Beach – 1230 W. Greenleaf Ave.
- Leone Beach – 1222 W. Touhy Ave.
- Marion Mahony Griffin Beach – 1208 W. Jarvis Ave.
- North Shore Beach – 1040 W. North Shore Ave.
- Tobey Prinz Beach – 1045 W. Pratt Blvd.
- Hartigan Beach – 1123 W. Farwell Ave.
- Helen Doria Beach – 1040 W. Columbia Ave.
- Lane Beach – 5915 N. Sheridan Rd.
- Kathy Osterman Beach (Hollywood Beach) – 5800 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- Foster Beach – 5200 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- Montrose Beach – 4400 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
Central Beaches (Lincoln Park, Near North Side, Downtown)
- North Avenue Beach – 1600 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- Oak Street Beach – 1000 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- Ohio Street Beach – 600 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- 12th Street Beach – 1200 S. Linn White Dr.
South Side Beaches (Bronzeville, Hyde Park, South Shore, East Side)
- 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) – 3100 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- 41st Street Beach (Oakwood) – 4100 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- 57th Street Beach – 5700 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- 63rd Street Beach – 6300 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable LSD
- South Shore Beach – 7059 S. South Shore Dr.
- Rainbow Beach – 3111 E. 77th St.
- Calumet Beach – 9801 S. Avenue G
Looking for More Summer Fun?
Find and discover new and familiar festivals with this easy list of festival dates in Chicago.
