The 13 Best Beaches in Chicago

Renowned for its striking architecture, incredible deep-dish pizza and unbelievable entertainment around every corner, Chicago has certainly garnered a reputation as one of the most exciting travel destinations in the country. With exciting recreational activities, magical museums and a plethora of exciting cultural events, this is a top-notch destination all year round. However, travelers looking to visit the Windy City between Memorial Day and Labor Day are truly in for a treat, as one of Chicago’s premier summer highlights is the city’s breathtaking beaches.

The splashy sandy shores of Lake Michigan have made this city a fantastic summer getaway ideal for visitors looking to enjoy a relaxing day in the sun or jump into some of the city’s best outdoor water sports experiences. Take a look at this AAA guide to some of Chicago’s very best beaches and start planning your dream vacation straight away.

Wikimedia Commons / HydeParkand57th / CC BY-SA 4.0

Also known throughout the city as Hollywood Beach, this picturesque paradise lies in the Northernmost tip of Lincoln Park and is one of the most popular beaches in the city. One of the area’s smaller beaches, it provides visitors with a wide range of amenities, including WiFi, a fishing pier and a top-notch volleyball court. The shallow waters and gentle waves typically seen in the area have made it the perfect spot for beginner swimmers and birdwatchers looking to catch a peek of the numerous migratory birds calling this location home between spring and fall.

iStockphoto.com / stevegeer

A local hotspot for residents living in the Gold Coast and Streeterville neighborhoods, Oak Street Beach has several amenities that help to make it one of the city's most notable beaches, including chair rentals, bike rentals and volleyball rentals. A place where the whole family can enjoy a wonderful day in the waves, Oak Street Beach’s glittering white sands and picturesque city skyline vistas will leave travelers feeling like they’ve wandered into a tropical paradise in the middle of Chicago.

istockphoto.com / stevegeer

Especially popular with local college students and families needing a break, Loyola Beach is home to a 2.3-mile hiking trail right along Lake Michigan’s sandy shores. A more relaxing and quiet area than many other Chicago beaches, Loyola Beach is perfect for visitors looking for a quick escape from the busy hustle and bustle of the city.

The Beach is also right next to the stunning Loyola Park, a 21.5-acre landscape filled with lush gardens, tennis courts, basketball courts and even a boxing center for those travelers looking for a great way to relieve stress.

istockphoto.com / stevegeer

Located in the South of Chicago, this marvelous beach is part of the 142-acre Rainbow Park, one of the city’s most beloved green spaces. With one of the city’s oldest public gardens and over nine acres of picturesque dunes, Rainbow Beach and Park is the perfect destination for visitors of all ages. Not only is this one of the city’s most popular photo ops, but many guests also enjoy taking advantage of the numerous recreational activities available throughout the area, including stunning volleyball and handball courts and the world-class gym right within the park.

Wikimedia Commons / Sea Cow / CC BY-SA 4.0

The perfect place to spend a day in the sun, 63rd Street Beach is home to one of the city’s most historic Beach Houses, a non-motorized boat launch and interactive water fountains to add just a bit more fun. Its spacious shoreline and family-friendly amenities make it an ideal destination for swimming, picnicking or simply relaxing while taking in scenic views of Lake Michigan.

Wikimedia Commons / Alanscottwalker / CC BY 3.0

One of the many family-friendly beaches in Chicago, Foster Beach is a bit more out of the way in Edgewater, making it ideal for those travelers hoping to avoid more touristy hotspots. This is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful family outing taking in the beautiful views of Chicago’s cityscape.

istockphoto.com / tifonimages

One of the most popular Uptown beaches, Montrose Beach is a dog-owners paradise. With their very own area, your furry four-legged friend can easily enjoy a day in the sand with the rest of your family. The beach also offers volleyball and kayak rentals, ensuring a fantastic fun-filled day for every visitor.

istockphoto.com / stevegeer

Part of the South Shore Cultural Center, South Shore Beach is quickly becoming one of Chicago’s not-so-hidden gems. A beachfront destination with a little something for everyone, travelers can quickly make their way between the 65-acre park’s glamorous beach house, tennis courts and nature sanctuary before settling down for a day along the sandy shores.

istockphoto.com / S. Greg Panosian

Just a short walk from Navy Pier, Ohio Street Beach offers some of the calmest waters along Lake Michigan, making it one of the top Chicago swimming locations. Of course, for those travelers looking to stay along the shoreline, this beach also provides unbelievable views of Downtown Chicago. It can be a great place to snap a few photos to commemorate your dream vacation.

istockphoto.com / patty_c

A bit more out of the way, Glencoe Beach is a fabulous option for travelers looking to spend the day on Chicago’s North Shore. The park features a wide variety of visitor amenities, including a “sprayground," two volleyball courts, kayak and paddleboard rentals and a full concession stand filled with mouthwatering snacks. Please keep in mind that this beach does require visitors to obtain a daily beach pass, which costs $10 for Glencoe Residents and $20 for non-residents.

Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA

As one of the most popular beaches in Chicago, North Avenue Beach is a treasure. It's home to a 22,00-square foot beach house that provides access to food, retail, and various activities. Swimming, building sandcastles, and soaking up the sun are always things to do. But the beach house also provides some of the best local views of the sun setting. The area is popular with bikers, rollerbladers, and runners.

Paul R. Burley / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA

57th Street Beach is a smaller beach tucked into Jackson Park, known as one of the best parks in Chicago. It's a local hotspot that provides residents with direct access to the lakefront. There are a few restaurants nearby, including Tasty Grill, a Mexican/American establishment. You can also spend time walking the beach, digging in the sand, and just watching the waves come in. Swimming is available, depending on water quality, but only allowed when there is a lifeguard on duty.

Alanscottwalker / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA

It goes by a few names, known locally as Tobey Prinz Beach Park. This 2.40-acre park is in Rogers Park, located in the North Side of the city. It’s one of the best for seeing the Oak Street skyline. It has tennis courts, which makes it a popular place for locals. There’s a sandy beach to dig into, murals, and a long pier. The park with benches encourages everyone to relax even if they don’t want to get into the sand. Beautiful murals line the area.

Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your trip to Chicago today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.