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The 16 Best Beaches in Chicago

When visiting Chicago during the summer months, nothing beats spending a day at one of the city's beautiful beaches. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot, a place to relax and soak up the sun, or a location to hit the water for some fun watersports, Chicago's beaches have something to offer for everyone.

With Lake Michigan providing a stunning backdrop, beachgoers can enjoy the sandy shores and cool waters while taking in the sights of the city skyline. From bustling beaches with vibrant boardwalks to more secluded spots perfect for a peaceful retreat, Chicago's beaches cater to a variety of preferences.

Before heading out to the beach, take a look at this list of The 16 Best Beaches in Chicago to help you find the perfect spot for your day in the sun!

How this ranking works

An editorial pick of places in Chicago, ordered by how well visitors regard them and what each one offers.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3Full rankingMapTips for choosing

Our 16 local picks compared

Oak Street Beach, Chicago#1
What sets it apart
  • This was a great surprise, a beach in the heart of Chicago with freshwater, perfect for a refreshing swim after a day of exploring. (Rated 5)

  • The combination of beach view and city skyline creates a harmonious and picturesque scene, offering a peaceful escape within walking distance from shopping areas. (Rated 5)

  • Favored by many, Oak Street Beach is praised for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful landscape, and proximity to iconic city landmarks. (Rated 5)

Oak Street Beach

4.8492 reviews
Illinois 60611, United States

Oak Street Beach is a picturesque beach located in Illinois, offering a unique blend of natural serenity and urban vibrancy. The rhythmic waves against the cityscape backdrop create a tranquil escape with a touch of dynamic energy. The beauty of nature meets the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a refreshing and captivating panorama.

The reviews from visitors highlight:

The Concrete Beach, Chicago#2
What sets it apart
  • Great place to exercise and enjoy the beautiful scenery

  • Perfect spot to observe the Chicago skyline, especially during sunset

  • Convenient facilities for volleyball enthusiasts and beachgoers

  • Relaxing and peaceful ambiance for visitors to unwind

The Concrete Beach

4.7330 reviews
1000 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

The Concrete Beach is a popular public beach located in Chicago, offering a unique experience for visitors. Whether you want to relax by the water, work out, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the skyline, this beach has something for everyone.

With a rating of 4.7, it's evident that The Concrete Beach is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. So, whether you're looking to soak up the sun, stay active, or simply take in the views, this beach is the perfect urban escape.

31st Street Beach, Chicago#3
What sets it apart
  • The beach offers a serene atmosphere with an amazing view of the Chicago skyline.

  • Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, cycling, and relaxing by the water.

  • The landscape provides beautiful views of the lakeshore and downtown high-rises.

  • Facilities like newer amenities, food service deck, and beach shower make this beach a must-visit.

31st Street Beach

4.62,380 reviews
Chicago, IL 60616, United States

31st Street Beach is a popular destination in Chicago, IL for those seeking a relaxing day by the water. With a rating of 4.6, it's clear that customers enjoy what this beach has to offer. Reviews highlight the following key points:

Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take a dip in the lake, or enjoy a picturesque view, 31st Street Beach is a great spot for all beach lovers.

Ohio Street Beach, Chicago#4
What sets it apart
  • This beach is great, it’s never overly crowded and they have lockers you can use. Perfect for a swim or simply soaking up the sun.

  • Nice little beach on Lake Michigan with great views of the skyscrapers. The water here is very clear and the lakeside walk is beautiful.

  • Enjoyed myself with my family. The water is clear with little fish swimming about. Relaxing time with good food and drinks available.

  • Very nice little beach adjacent to Navy Pier, a must-visit spot for a perfect blend of tall buildings, shoreline, and a perfect breeze.

Ohio Street Beach

4.6204 reviews
Illinois 60611, United States

Ohio Street Beach is a popular spot in Illinois 60611, United States, for those looking to relax by the water with stunning views. With a rating of 4.6, this beach offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Customers have shared some key points in their reviews:

Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a leisurely beach day, Ohio Street Beach has something for everyone to enjoy.

Calumet Park Beach, Chicago#5
What sets it apart
  • A peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature.

  • Beautiful views and photo opportunities.

  • Great park and beach area with something for everyone.

  • Safe and clean facilities, perfect for a day out.

Calumet Park Beach

4.670 reviews
Chicago, IL 60617, United States

Calumet Park Beach is a serene and beautiful spot located in Chicago, IL. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views of the lake. The park offers different areas to walk and relax, including a pier with a great photo spot. Customers have highlighted some key points in their reviews:

Whether you want to unwind by the water, take a stroll, or have a picnic, Calumet Park Beach is the perfect destination for a day of leisure and outdoor enjoyment.

South Shore Beach, Chicago#6
What sets it apart
  • This is a favorite spot for many visitors due to its uniqueness and history

  • Customers appreciate the improvements made, such as new amenities and a clean environment

  • The beach offers various activities, including yoga, fitness classes, and music events

  • Visitors highlight the peaceful and safe atmosphere of the beach

South Shore Beach

4.624 reviews
Illinois 60649, United States

South Shore Beach offers a peaceful and safe environment, with opportunities to enjoy the water and sand. The beach is described as a hidden gem with a brand new beach house and a burger spot. In addition, customers can participate in yoga and fitness classes on Saturdays or enjoy house music on Fridays. The beach has amenities such as bathrooms, water fountains, and a rental service, making it convenient for visitors. It also boasts a clean and well-maintained environment with calm waters, perfect for a relaxing day by the shore.

Calumet Beach, Chicago#7
What sets it apart
  • Very relaxing and not too crowded with various water activities available including jet skiing.

  • Beach is clean and well-maintained, perfect for a peaceful day out with the family.

  • Some concerns have been raised about the cleanliness of Lake water, suggesting potential improvements are needed.

  • Visitors appreciate the ample parking and comfortable seating close to the water, although restrictions on pets may be a downside for some.

Calumet Beach

4.3232 reviews
Chicago, IL 60617, United States

Calumet Beach is a popular spot in Chicago, known for its serene views and family-friendly atmosphere. With a solid rating of 4.3, this beach offers visitors a chance to enjoy the clean shoreline and on-site amenities. Customers have highlighted the following key points in their reviews:

Rogers Beach, Chicago#8
What sets it apart
  • Attended a BBQ overlooking the lake with a nice view and airplanes preparing for the Air and Water show.

  • Stop by to relax and enjoy the view at Rogers Beach if you're from Chicago.

  • Great place to take care of your visit to a vista.

  • Gorgeous beach with tennis courts, a small sandy area that doesn't get too crowded, and a lush park.

Rogers Beach

4.511 reviews
Chicago, IL 60626, United States

Rogers Beach is a picturesque spot in Chicago that not only offers a sandy beach by the lake but also a range of amenities like lifeguards, a dog park, tennis courts, and portable bathrooms. Along with the beautiful view, customers love the shady trees that provide relief from the sun. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Customers also recommend planning ahead for parking or using public transportation to reach this popular beach spot.

12th Street Beach, Chicago#9
What sets it apart
  • Great central location within museum campus

  • Concession stand and restaurant on premises

  • Plenty of bathrooms and grassy areas

  • Beautiful skyline views and clean, well-maintained facilities

12th Street Beach

4.340 reviews
Chicago, IL 60605, United States

12th Street Beach is a hidden gem in Chicago, offering a serene escape right in the heart of the city. Situated near popular attractions like Soldier Field and the Shedd Aquarium, this beach is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a relaxing day by Lake Michigan.

Visitors rave about the cleanliness of the beach, the clear waters of the lake, and the array of amenities available. With a rating of 4.3 based on 40 reviews, it's no wonder that 12th Street Beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this peaceful oasis in the bustling city of Chicago.

49th Street Beach, Chicago#10

49th Street Beach

4.76 reviews
Chicago, IL 60615, United States

49th Street Beach is a beloved spot in Chicago for those seeking a serene waterfront experience. While not your traditional sandy beach, visitors appreciate the beautiful rocks above and below the water creating a unique atmosphere. The location is cherished by many for its perfect videography and photography backdrop, making it a go-to spot for capturing special moments. Customers have highlighted the calm area and nice view, despite it not being a typical beach setting. Some describe it as appearing like a very large lake beach, with clean water and families enjoying the surroundings. Overall, it seems to be a great free option for a relaxing day out, with lots of photo opportunities and beautiful natural features to enjoy.

Ohio Street Beach, Chicago#11
What sets it apart
  • A relaxing and beautiful escape from the city, with stunning views of the lake and skyline.

  • A clean and well-maintained beach area, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a day in the sun.

  • A vibrant atmosphere with friendly vendors selling snacks and drinks, creating a lively beach experience.

  • Easy access and diverse dining options along the street, making it a must-visit location in Chicago.

Ohio Street Beach

4.61,116 reviews
600 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Ohio Street Beach is a charming public beach located in Chicago, offering a range of amenities for visitors to enjoy. With clear water and a clean beachfront, guests can relax and soak up the sun in a peaceful environment. The beach is also accessible with wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances, making it inclusive for all.

Customer reviews rave about the beauty and tranquility of Ohio Street Beach, highlighting several key points:

With a rating of 4.6 based on 1116 reviews, it's clear that Ohio Street Beach is a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan.

57th Street Beach, Chicago#12
What sets it apart
  • Loved it here! Arrived on a Friday at 11 AM to find a clean and empty beach with helpful lifeguards.

  • Great alternative to other beaches in the area, family-friendly with cheap and accessible parking.

  • Nice beach with shallow water, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the aquatic nature.

  • A favorite spot for many to relax, have fun, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

57th Street Beach

4.668 reviews
Chicago, IL 60637, United States

57th Street Beach is a stunning beach located in Chicago, IL. This beach offers a clean and family-friendly environment, perfect for a relaxing day out in the sun. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful sandbar and shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for children to splash around safely.

With a rating of 4.6, based on 68 reviews, 57th Street Beach is a highly recommended destination for those looking for a peaceful and enjoyable beach experience. So why wait? Pack your beach bag and head over to 57th Street Beach for a day of fun in the sun!

Oakwood Beach, Chicago#13
What sets it apart
  • Beautiful, clean sand and water

  • Breathtaking views of the skyline

  • Great for relaxing on the shore

  • Low key location with not too many crowds

Oakwood Beach

4.5221 reviews
Chicago, IL 60653, United States

Oakwood Beach is a stunning destination in Chicago offering a place to relax and enjoy the summer sun. With a rating of 4.5 stars, this beach is known for its beauty and cleanliness. Customers have raved about their experiences, highlighting the following key points:

Whether you're looking to sunbathe, take a stroll along the shore, or snap some Instagram-worthy photos, Oakwood Beach is the perfect spot for a day of fun and relaxation in Chicago.

63rd Street Beach, Chicago#14
What sets it apart
  • This beach is known for its amazing vibes, live music, and delicious food, making it the perfect spot for a night out.

  • Visitors appreciate the beautiful surroundings and hidden gems, such as a unique fountain that adds to the charm of the place.

  • Many visitors recommend biking to the beach due to limited parking but assure that the experience is worth the effort.

  • Customers also commend the cleanliness of the beach and the friendly and polite staff who make their experience enjoyable.

63rd Street Beach

4.4610 reviews

Open 24 hours

6300 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60649, United States

63rd Street Beach is a popular public beach located in Chicago, offering a range of amenities for visitors to enjoy. With a rating of 4.4, this beach has received numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers.

63rd Street Beach is not just a beach but an experience, where visitors can relax, soak up the sun, and create lasting memories with friends and family.

63rd Street Beach, Chicago#15
What sets it apart
  • Nice beach, happy and very sporty people around you on this beach.

  • Perfect beach! The area was clean and well maintained. There is also a bar!

  • Family and I made a quick stop here on Sunday at this beach before heading back to Cincinnati. It was worth it. Clean and not crowded. Planning on coming back here again.

  • Awesome beach packed with small businesses and vendors, as well as an awesome bar with a delicious kitchen.

63rd Street Beach

4.499 reviews
Chicago, IL 60649, United States

63rd Street Beach is a picturesque beach in Chicago where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying various activities. The beach is known for its cleanliness and spacious area, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. One of the highlighted features of this beach is the presence of a bar, adding a touch of convenience and enjoyment to the experience.

Chicago's Beaches#16
What sets it apart
  • High rise buildings around the beach provide a true urban beach experience.

  • Small beach that is good for kids and near a quiet park.

  • Chicago beaches are fantastic in the summertime, but caution is advised after dark.

  • Visitors love the calming and refreshing nature of the beach.

Chicago's Beaches

4.216 reviews

Open 24 hours

541 N Fairbanks Ct, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Chicago's Beaches offer a delightful escape to the sandy shores right in the heart of the city. With 24-hour access every day of the week, it's the perfect spot to unwind and soak up some sun. This public beach is not just your average hangout; it's a vibrant urban oasis where visitors can enjoy the Wheelchair-accessible entrance and ensure that it's Good for kids.

Here are some key points from the customer reviews:

Whether you're looking to cool down or simply enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan, Chicago's Beaches is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

The comparison in brief

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Oak Street Beach 4.8492
#2The Concrete Beach 4.7330
#331st Street Beach 4.62,380
#4Ohio Street Beach 4.6204
#5Calumet Park Beach 4.670
#6South Shore Beach 4.624
#7Calumet Beach 4.3232
#8Rogers Beach 4.511
#912th Street Beach 4.340
#1049th Street Beach 4.76
#11Ohio Street Beach 4.61,116
#1257th Street Beach 4.668
#13Oakwood Beach 4.5221
#1463rd Street Beach 4.4610
#1563rd Street Beach 4.499
#16Chicago's Beaches 4.216

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Map of Beaches in Chicago

Chicago boasts a stunning collection of beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan. With 26 miles of sandy shoreline, there is a beach for everyone to enjoy, from family-friendly spots to ones perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Discover the beauty and variety of Chicago's beaches on the map below.

Tips for choosing Beaches in Chicago

  1. Family-friendly amenities such as playgrounds and picnic areas.
  2. Rental services for water equipment like kayaks and paddleboards.
  3. Food and beverage vendors for a convenient beach day experience.
  4. Options for beach volleyball and other recreational activities.
  5. Clean and well-maintained facilities for a comfortable visit.

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