Chicago Beaches

Chicago beaches, when most of us "visitors" begin to plan a trip to Chicago, many forget to pack beach attire in the warmer months. Not really known as a beach town, Chicago does offer a wonderful lakefront and sandy beaches that can certainly help take the edge off one of our sweltering summer days.

Being prepared is your best bet tio get the most from our beaches. Therefore we have created a beach checklist for you to download and use when it comes time to pack for your trip. We have also included our favorite Chicago beaches and a bit about them for you below. Thanks again for stopping by and enjoy your time on Chicago's fine beaches.

Chicago Beaches

Kathy Osterman Beach

W Hollywood Ave and N Lake Shore Dr

Chicago, IL 60660

Also known as Hollywood beach, this beach has a split personality. On the north side you have a great family beach, where kids and dogs play in the surf. The southern side is a fantastic beach frequented by the Boys town crowd. Once you have picked sides…the game is on! Home to plenty of and volleyball courts, water Frisbee and plenty of people watching, this is a great beach if you are sports-orientated or find yourself hanging out north of the city.

Local tip - There are restrooms and outdoor showers available at the beach house.

Montrose Beach

Montrose Ave and Lake Shore Dr

Chicago, IL 60614

An uptowners fav and multiethnic melting pot. Home to white sand, beach volleyball with soccer, baseball & tennis courts, this comfortable beach is most diverse in the city. If you are looking for a bit more than your usual beach or just want to get away from the norm then this beach is for you.

Local tip - There are bleachers, restrooms and a playground for kids and those come for the weekend soccer matches.

North Avenue Beach

North Ave and Lake Shore Dr

Chicago, IL 60610

Directions: Bus: 72 to Lake Shore Drive; 22, 36 151, 156, to North Avenue

A people watchers oasis along Lake Michigan. With easy access via a footbridge from Lincoln Park, this beach is literally overflowing with Chicagoans from the end of May to September. As the sounds of music and rollerblades fill the air, you will feel what a true Chicago summer feels like here. With food and beverage vendors around, you will not only enjoy a great day at the beach, but a flash of board shorts, bikinis and ipods that would make anyone of your friends jealous! Get here early and be ready to BBQ, Chicago-style.

Local tip - Forget something? The Beach house not only offers up some comforts that you may have left at home, but also rents bikes, beach chairs and volleyball equipment for those so inclined. For those looking for a freebee, check out the open-air fitness center ala Venice beach. Call 312.742.7529 for up to the minute information and conditions.

Oak Street Beach

Oak St at Lake Shore Dr

Chicago, IL 60611

Directions: 145, 146, 147 to Delaware Pl; 151 to Oak St..

My favorite beach in all of Chicagoland! Located across from the Drake hotel and a few steps form the Mag Mile, Oak Street beach is what all Chicago beaches strive to be. So, hop on a bike and be ready for some fun. One of the only beaches (that I know of) that is adjacent to a major city center, Oak Street offers up fantastic views of the infamous skyline, businessmen on a lunchtime break, bikinis, board shorts, tourists sporting their new MJ t-shirt, kids, dogs and practically all of Chicago on a single expanse of sand. Volleyball courts, chess boards and concrete all have found a place here, and most of us will too.

Local tip - Spend a summer evening here with your significant other & your camera. Some of the best photos of the skyline can be taken from here.

12th Street Beach

Burnham Park

Chicago, IL 60605

Located close to the Adler Planetarium & Meigs filed,

12th Street beach offers one of the few “deep water” points in the city. This beach is far more laid back than say, oak Street or North Ave, and with its location to some of the sights that call Chicago home make it a Chicago favorite.

Local tip - If you want to dive, please ask the lifeguards that are usually on duty where the best point of entry is. The water here can, and does get a bit cloudy and weedy, so its best to ask first.

31st Street Beach

31st St and Lake Shore Dr

Chicago, IL 60616

Hanging our on the south side, then here is your beach! Lacking the crowds of the north side beaches, 31st street not only offers a reprieve from all that chaos up north, but also offers a laid back sandy beach to call home. Also included here is a fishing pier, concession stands, drinking fountain, a playground for the kids and a skate park just to the south.

Local tip - Just come and relax.....