As winter grips Chicago and its residents navigate chilly days, the anticipation for warmer weather and sunny beach days builds.
With Lake Michigan bordering the city, Chicago boasts an impressive lineup of 26 sandy beaches along its shoreline, plus an additional inland beach on the West Side.
Block Club has crafted a detailed guide to explore these beaches, highlighting what makes each unique, how to get there, and any amenities available.
All beaches are open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., but swimming is strictly permitted between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. during the designated beach season, according to Park District regulations.
### Juneway Beach
7751 N. Eastlake Terrace, Rogers Park
Currently, Juneway Beach is closed due to erosion.
Once the northernmost beach in the city, it now lacks traditional beach features due to significant erosion.
Visitors can still enjoy the view from the sea wall but should not expect to swim or sunbathe.
A unique sculpture nearby offers an artistic touch to the landscape.
**Cool fact:** The name “Juneway” was coined in June by land developer Sivert Tobias Gunderson.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** No accessible path to the shoreline.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking is available. Take the Red Line to Howard, followed by a short walk, or catch the No. 147 Outer Drive Express bus.
### Rogers Beach
7705 N. Eastlake Terrace, Rogers Park
Rogers Beach is also currently closed due to erosion.
While it’s ideal for picturesque views and the refreshing sensation of splashing waves, the beach area has diminished significantly.
Park amenities include benches and tennis courts, perfect for relaxation or light exercise.
**Cool fact:** The beach is named after Philip Rogers, a pioneer who settled the area.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** No accessible path to the shoreline.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking is available. Take the Red Line to Jarvis or Howard, or board the No. 147 Outer Drive Express bus.
### Howard Beach
7519 N. Eastlake Terrace, Rogers Park
Currently closed due to erosion, Howard Beach often raises questions about its usability.
The beach area has significantly shrunk due to ongoing erosion, reducing swimming opportunities.
However, grassy parkland and a playground nearby invite families to enjoy time outside, with viewing benches dotting the shoreline, providing spots to witness breathtaking sunrises over the lake.
**Cool fact:** Howard Beach is named after Howard Ure, a descendant of one of Rogers Park’s founding families.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** Only street-level access due to erosion.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking is available. Access via the Red Line to Jarvis or Howard or hop on the No. 147 Outer Drive Express bus.
### Fargo Beach
1300 W. Fargo Ave., Rogers Park
Fargo Beach is also temporarily closed due to erosion.
This quaint beach, one of Rogers Park’s street-end locations, faces its own challenges with shrinking sand areas.
While swimming is prohibited, the views remain captivating for those seeking fresh air.
**Cool fact:** James C. Fargo, for whom the beach is named, offered a reward for the capture of a notorious train robber who escaped from a mental asylum in 1895.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** Only street-level access is available.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking available. Use the Red Line to Jarvis or the No. 147 Outer Drive Express or No. 151 Sheridan buses.
### Marion Mahony Griffin Beach/Jarvis Beach
1208 W. Jarvis Ave., Rogers Park
This beach remains one of the few still open for swimming and sunbathing.
It’s a small, inviting beach, enhanced by a delightful sandbar and pier, ideal for reading by the water.
**Cool fact:** Mayor Richard J. Daley once signed autographs for local kids during its dedication in 1960.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** There is a ramp that leads down from the parking area to a walkway.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking is available. Take the Red Line to Jarvis or the No. 147 Outer Drive Express or No. 151 Sheridan buses.
### Leone Beach
1222 W. Touhy Ave., Rogers Park
Dating back to 1919, Leone Beach has rich historical value.
Adventure seekers can enjoy nearby playgrounds and natural areas, along with a basketball court in the vicinity.
Families will find this beach a peaceful getaway for a day in the sun.
**Cool fact:** Once popular for diving boards in the 1960s, the beach has transitioned into a quieter space today.
**Bathrooms:** No, but nearby Loyola Park Fieldhouse offers restroom access.
**Special amenities:** A kayak launch is available.
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** There is no accessible path to the shoreline.
**How to get there:** There is a paid parking lot. Take the Red Line to Jarvis or Morse and walk, or use the No. 96 Lunt, No. 147 Outer Drive Express or No. 155 Devon buses.
### Loyola Beach
1230 W. Greenleaf Ave., Rogers Park
As the largest beach in Rogers Park, Loyola Beach is a hub of activity.
Offering baseball and softball fields, basketball courts, a playground, and community facilities, it attracts many visitors during summer.
Though space can feel limited, the vibrant atmosphere of the beach makes it an enjoyable day out.
**Cool fact:** Formerly North Shore Park, it also became known as a location for flooding rinks in winter.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** The Blue Jay Cafe is located there.
**Special amenities:** A walking trail along the beach.
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk available.
**How to get there:** Paid parking is available. Take the Red Line to Loyola or Morse and walk, or take buses No. 96 Lunt, No. 147 Outer Drive Express or No. 155 Devon.
### Tobey Prinz Beach
1045 W. Pratt Blvd., Rogers Park
One of Rogers Park’s early gems, Tobey Prinz Beach remains a serene retreat.
The beach park includes benches and a grassy area that invites relaxation and quiet reflection.
**Cool fact:** Tobey Prinz was known for championing beach preservation and community activism.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** There is an accessible walkway.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking is available. Access via the Red Line to Loyola or take buses No. 96 Lunt, No. 147 Outer Drive Express or No. 155 Devon.
### Columbia Beach/Helen Doria Beach
1041 W. Columbia Ave., Rogers Park
Helen Doria Beach, a former private beach, now welcomes visitors to its spacious area.
Constant breezes make for a relaxed day along with scenic views of the water.
**Cool fact:** Columbia Beach only became a part of the Park District in the 1960s.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** There is an accessible walkway, but not to the water.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking is available. Take the Red Line to Loyola. Buses No. 96 Lunt, No. 147 Outer Drive Express, and No. 155 Devon also service this area.
### North Shore Beach
1040 W. North Shore Ave., Rogers Park
Once a private beach, North Shore Beach is now publicly accessible and offers a serene ambiance.
**Cool fact:** This beach was utilized by bathers for years before it was officially acquired in the 1960s.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** There are no accessible features.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking available. Use the Red Line to Loyola or buses No. 96 Lunt, No. 147 Outer Drive Express or No. 155 Devon.
### Hartigan Beach
Albion Avenue and the lakefront, Rogers Park
With its tranquil environment, Hartigan Beach offers peace amid city life.
Acquired by the Park District in 1959, this tiny oasis is surrounded by local residences.
**Cool fact:** Hartigan Beach’s acquisition was part of a larger initiative that brought numerous beaches into public use.
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** Accessible walkway available, though not to the water.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking is available. Use the Red Line to Loyola and the No. 147 Outer Drive Express or No. 151 Sheridan buses.
### Lane Beach/Thorndale Avenue Beach
5915 N. Sheridan Road, Edgewater
Lane Beach, also called Thorndale Beach, provides a family-oriented environment with a rich history.
Visitors can freely explore the waters or enjoy a stroll along the shoreline.
**Cool fact:** The adjacent condominium complex is featured in “The Bob Newhart Show.”
**Bathrooms:** No
**Concessions:** None
**Accessibility:** There is an accessible beach walk and playground.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking is available. Take the Red Line to Thorndale and walk. Buses No. 147 Outer Drive Express or No. 151 Sheridan are also options.
### Kathy Osterman Beach/Hollywood Beach
5800 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Edgewater
Also known as Hollywood Beach, Kathy Osterman Beach is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere.
Renowned as the “gay beach,” it features a colorful harbor beacon and encourages community interaction through sports, music, and events.
**Cool fact:** This beach is a fantastic location for bird watching.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Availability varies for food
**Accessibility:** An accessible beach walk is present, with free beach wheelchairs available.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking. Use the Red Line to Bryn Mawr or Thorndale or buses No. 84 Peterson, No. 147 Outer Drive Express, or No. 151 Sheridan.
### Foster Beach
5200 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Edgewater
Foster Beach is a beloved spot with ample nature and recreational opportunities, catering to all audiences.
Historically a private beach associated with the Edgewater Beach Hotel, it now serves public visitors.
**Cool fact:** The beach was opened to the public following the expansion of Lake Shore Drive in the 1950s.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Availability may vary.
**Special amenities:** Bike rentals are available.
**Accessibility:** An accessible beach walk is provided, with free wheelchairs available.
**Wi-Fi:** Yes
**How to get there:** Paid parking is nearby. Use the Red Line to Berwyn and walk east, or take the No. 147 Outer Drive Express bus or No. 151 Sheridan.
### Montrose Beach
4400 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Uptown
Montrose Beach is known for its diverse wildlife, sandy dunes, and bustling summer activity.
It also features numerous amenities such as sports fields and scenic views of the city skyline.
**Cool fact:** It is home to rare piping plover birds that have gained local fame.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Yes
**Special amenities:** Dog-friendly beach and water activities such as kayaking available.
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk provided, with free wheelchairs available.
**Wi-Fi:** Yes
**How to get there:** Paid parking available. Use the Red Line to Lawrence or Wilson stops, or buses No. 78 Montrose, No. 81 Lawrence, or No. 151 Sheridan.
### North Avenue Beach
1601 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Lincoln Park
Known for its striking beach house, North Avenue Beach is a popular summer gathering point.
Activities abound, including kayak rentals, volleyball courts, and a vibrant beach atmosphere.
**Cool fact:** The beach house, built in 1940, was once considered the most equipped beach house in the U.S.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Yes
**Special amenities:** Various beach activities and sports facilities are available.
**Accessibility:** The beach walk is accessible, with free wheelchairs upon request.
**Wi-Fi:** Yes
**How to get there:** Paid parking available. Bus routes include No. 76 Diversey, No. 145 Wilson/Michigan Express, No. 146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express, No. 147 Outer Drive Express, or No. 151 Sheridan.
### Humboldt Beach
1400 N. Sacramento Ave., Humboldt Park
As the only inland beach, Humboldt Beach offers a relaxing option amidst beautiful park surroundings.
The beach has a long history of closures and reopenings but currently serves waders and splashers looking for cooling off in the park’s lagoons.
**Cool fact:** Mayor Richard J. Daley initially proposed developing into swimming areas in the 1960s.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** No
**Accessibility:** There is no accessible path to the shoreline.
**How to get there:** Limited street parking available. Access via No. 52 Kedzie/California, No. 65 Grand, No. 70 Division, No. 72 North, or No. 82 Kimball-Homan buses.
### Oak Street Beach
1000 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Gold Coast
Situated near the iconic Gold Coast area, Oak Street Beach continues to attract locals and tourists alike.
With a rich bathing history, it has remained a favorite destination for relaxation.
**Cool fact:** This beach has historically accommodated up to 55,000 visitors in a single day during peak summer months.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Yes
**Special amenities:** Volleyball courts and rental options for beach gear are available.
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walks provided.
**Wi-Fi:** Yes
**How to get there:** Limited street parking. Access via the Red Line to Clark/Division or buses No. 22 Clark, No. 36 Broadway, or No. 151 Sheridan.
### Ohio Street Beach
600 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Streeterville
Ohio Street Beach is a well-kept secret popular among swimmers for its unique layout.
Being close to many city attractions, it strikes a balance between accessibility and relaxation.
**Cool fact:** It allows swimmers to venture half a mile north in shallow waters.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Yes
**Special amenities:** Kayak rentals are available.
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk available.
**How to get there:** Very limited street parking. Use the Red Line to Grand or buses No. 29 State, No. 65 Grand, No. 66 Chicago, or No. 124 Navy Pier.
### 12th Street Beach
1200 S. Linn White Drive, South Loop
Positioned near iconic Chicago landmarks, 12th Street Beach remains a hidden gem.
Visitors can enjoy easily accessible trails while still being tucked away from heavy foot traffic.
**Cool fact:** Originally a part of Daniel Burnham’s vision for the lakefront, it has hosted various historical events, including the 1933 World’s Fair.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Some facilities available but may vary.
**Special amenities:** Non-motorized boat launch on-site.
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk leads to the shoreline.
**How to get there:** Paid parking available near the beach. Walk from Roosevelt Red/Orange/Green Line Station or take No. 146 bus to Adler Planetarium.
### Margaret T. Burroughs Beach/31st Street Beach
3100 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Bronzeville
Margaret T. Burroughs Beach is a well-known spot on the South Side of Chicago.
Offering green spaces on one side and stunning lake views on the other, it’s a vibrant location for beachgoers.
**Cool fact:** The beach was named in 2015 to honor the foundational arts figure Margeret T. Burroughs.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Special amenities:** The adjacent harbor accommodates up to 1,000 boats and offers fishing opportunities.
**Concessions:** Yes
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk available, with free wheelchairs upon request.
**Wi-Fi:** Yes
**How to get there:** Paid parking available. Buses No. 3 King Drive, No. 4 Cottage Grove, and No. 35 all provide access.
### Oakwood Beach/41st Street Beach
4100 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Oakland
Nestled within Burnham Park, Oakwood Beach stands out for its serene atmosphere.
Visitors are drawn to its spacious, peaceful environment, featuring a modern beach house.
**Cool fact:** This beach opened in 2010, showcasing an environmentally friendly design.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Yes, but availability can vary.
**Accessibility:** There is no accessible beach walk available.
**How to get there:** Paid parking is available. Access via the No. 4 Cottage Grove or No. 39 buses.
### 57th Street Beach
5700 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Hyde Park
Situated in Jackson Park, 57th Street Beach exudes a tranquil environment alongside lush parklands.
It allows visitors to experience breathtaking views of both the city and the water.
**Cool fact:** This site began as a public beach only after the drainage canal’s development in 1899.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Beach house facilities are available but vary in availability.
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk and resting areas are present.
**Wi-Fi:** Yes
**How to get there:** Limited street parking near the beach. Multiple bus routes serve the area, including No. 6 Jackson Park Express, No. 10 Museum of Science & Industry, and others.
### 63rd Street Beach
6300 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Jackson Park
Known for a more structured environment, 63rd Street Beach features playgrounds and concessions nearby.
It remains a popular choice for families due to its recreational offerings and relaxing views.
**Cool fact:** Its beautiful beach house highlights classic revival architecture dating back to 1919.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Available in the beach house but can vary.
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk and free wheelchairs available.
**How to get there:** Small paid parking lot present. Access via various bus routes, including No. 6 Jackson Park Express and No. 15 Jeffery Local.
### South Shore Beach
7059 S. South Shore Drive, South Shore
South Shore Beach is integrated within a vibrant cultural center, offering the full Chicago experience.
It captures the essence of nature and culture with its dunes, beautiful views, and recreational options, making it a standout location.
**Cool fact:** The cultural center dates back over a century to 1916 and was designed by renowned architects.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Yes
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk and free beach wheelchairs upon request.
**How to get there:** Paid parking available nearby. Use the No. 6 Jackson Park Express or No. 71 South Shore buses to reach it.
### Rainbow Beach
3111 E. 77th St., South Chicago
Rainbow Beach spans an impressive 61 acres and offers ample space for relaxation and fun.
Renowned for its stunning skyline views and diverse amenities, it hosts community events and gatherings.
**Cool fact:** It was named after the U.S. Army’s 42nd Rainbow Division, taking significance from World War I.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Yes
**Accessibility:** Accessible beach walk and free wheelchairs provided.
**Wi-Fi:** Yes
**How to get there:** Paid parking available. Several buses can access Rainbow Beach, including No. 6 Jackson Park Express, No. 71 71st/South Shore, and others.
### Calumet Beach
9801 S. Avenue G, East Side
Calumet Beach, the city’s southernmost beach, is known for its tranquil family-friendly atmosphere.
With stunning views, nearby sports fields, and a peaceful ambiance, it’s a hidden gem for beach lovers.
**Cool fact:** The name originates from “chamulet,” which means “pipe,” a reference to peace pipes.
**Bathrooms:** Yes
**Concessions:** Availability may vary.
**Accessibility:** The beach is wheelchair accessible.
**How to get there:** Numerous parking lots available within Calumet Park. Use the No. 30 South Chicago bus for public transit access to the area.
image source from：blockclubchicago
