Top 18 Beaches in Chicago Illinois: Where to Swim, Sunbathe, and Relax

Location: If you’re exploring the top beaches in Chicago, Oak Street Beach deserves a spot at the top of your list. Located at 1000 N Lake Shore Drive, this beach is perfectly positioned at the edge of the Gold Coast, just minutes from downtown and the Magnificent Mile. It’s one of the most accessible and scenic lakefront spots in the city.

Things to do: What makes Oak Street Beach special is its unique blend of natural beauty and urban energy. With soft sand, sweeping views of Lake Michigan, and the city skyline rising behind you, it’s an unforgettable place to unwind.

There’s plenty to do here—play volleyball, rent a bike, or relax with a good book. During the warmer months, the Oak Street Beach Café offers refreshing drinks and snacks, perfect for recharging after some sun. It’s also a great spot for people-watching and sunset views.

Location:  600 N Lake Shore Drive, this beach is easily accessible from downtown and offers a peaceful escape with incredible views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

Things to do: Unlike some of the busier beaches in Chicago, Ohio Street Beach has a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing by the water. Thanks to its protected cove, the water here is usually calmer, making it a popular choice for open-water swimmers and paddleboarders.

One of the best features of Ohio Street Beach is its proximity to the Lakefront Trail, making it a great stop during a bike ride or morning jog. The beach is also within walking distance of some of Chicago’s top attractions, including Navy Pier, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Magnificent Mile.

During summer, you’ll find beach chairs available for rent and a casual beach café serving snacks and drinks.

Location: Among the most popular beaches in Chicago, North Avenue Beach stands out for its vibrant energy, stunning views, and endless activities. Located at 1600 N Lake Shore Drive, this beach sits in the heart of Lincoln Park and is easily accessible from downtown via bike, car, or public transit.

Things to do: Known for its wide stretch of sand and unbeatable skyline backdrop, North Avenue Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. It’s also a hotspot for beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and even yoga classes by the water.

One of the main attractions is the beach house, designed to look like an ocean liner, which offers food, drinks, restrooms, and rental equipment. You’ll also find nearby walking and biking paths along the Lakefront Trail, making it easy to explore more of the lakefront.

With lifeguards on duty during the summer and plenty of space for groups, North Avenue Beach is ideal for both families and solo travelers. If you’re searching for fun, beauty, and a bit of local culture, this is one of the best beaches in Chicago to soak up the summer vibes.

 Location:  4400 N Lake Shore Drive in the Uptown neighborhood, it’s one of the city’s largest beaches and a favorite among locals seeking a quieter, more spacious lakefront experience.

Things to do: Montrose Beach offers something for everyone. Swimmers and sunbathers will love the wide sandy shore and clear waters, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or walking along the scenic Lakefront Trail. It’s also home to one of Chicago’s best dog beaches, where pets can run off-leash and splash in the water.

Nature lovers will appreciate the adjacent Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, a peaceful haven for birdwatching and photography. During summer, the beach hosts volleyball games, family picnics, and even food vendors offering snacks and cold drinks.

Unlike some of the busier beaches in Chicago, Montrose Beach feels more open and relaxed, making it ideal for a full beach day or a peaceful evening by the water. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or your pup, Montrose Beach offers a unique blend of city life and lakeside serenity.

Location:  When exploring the diverse beaches in Chicago, don’t miss Kathy Osterman Beach, also known locally as Hollywood Beach. Located at 5800 N Lake Shore Drive in the Edgewater neighborhood, this beach is a serene spot perfect for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere away from the downtown crowds.

Things to do: Known for its clean, spacious shoreline and welcoming vibe, Kathy Osterman Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a quiet picnic with lake views. The beach is easily accessible by bike via the Lakefront Trail and is just a short walk from the Bryn Mawr Red Line stop. You’ll also find grassy areas nearby for lounging or playing games, as well as seasonal food vendors offering light snacks and refreshments.

Location: 5200 N Lake Shore Drive in the Edgewater neighborhood, Foster Beach is a peaceful retreat perfect for anyone exploring beaches in Chicago. Nestled between Montrose and Osterman beaches, Foster offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe while still providing plenty of space and scenic views of Lake Michigan.

Things to do: Foster Beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a casual day by the water. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families with children, and during the summer, lifeguards are on duty for added safety. Visitors can also enjoy the Lakefront Trail, which runs right by the beach — perfect for biking, walking, or rollerblading with beautiful lake views.

Picnic areas, grassy open spaces, and volleyball courts make Foster Beach a popular weekend spot for locals. There are also seasonal concessions and clean restrooms nearby for convenience.

Location: 1200 S Linn White Drive, near the Museum Campus and Northerly Island, 12th Street Beach is a cozy and scenic destination that stands out among the many beaches in Chicago. Though smaller than others, it offers a peaceful atmosphere with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

Things to do: Perfect for a quick swim or a quiet afternoon in the sun, this beach is popular with locals and tourists looking for a break from the crowds. Its location makes it easily accessible for visitors exploring attractions like the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, or Adler Planetarium—all just steps away.

The beach has calm waters, making it a family-friendly spot, and during summer, lifeguards are on duty. There are also public restrooms, a small concession stand, and easy access to walking and biking trails around Northerly Island Park.

Location: 3100 S Lake Shore Drive, 31st Street Beach is a scenic and often less crowded spot among the many beaches in Chicago. Situated in the vibrant Burnham Park, this beach offers a peaceful escape with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the downtown skyline.

Things to do: 31st Street Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the water. With calm waters and a spacious shoreline, it’s a great spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy a day on the beach. The beach also features volleyball courts, making it ideal for a fun game with friends or fellow beachgoers.

For those who enjoy biking or walking, the Lakefront Trail runs right alongside, offering easy access to explore the city’s beautiful lakefront. There are also picnic areas nearby, along with seasonal food vendors and restrooms for added convenience.

Whether you’re looking to unwind by the water, take in the view, or enjoy some outdoor activities, 31st Street Beach offers a laid-back vibe while still being close to all the excitement of downtown Chicago.

Location: 4100 S Lake Shore Drive, Oakwood Beach is a serene and underrated gem among beaches in Chicago. Nestled in the South Loop, this beach offers a quieter alternative to the more crowded lakefront spots, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful day by the water.

Things to do: With its scenic views of Lake Michigan and the skyline, Oakwood Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a calm, relaxing atmosphere. It’s also great for walking, with easy access to the Lakefront Trail for biking or jogging.

The beach is family-friendly, with clean facilities, picnic areas, and seasonal food vendors offering refreshments. Whether you’re unwinding by the water or exploring nearby parks, Oakwood Beach provides a tranquil lakeside retreat in the heart of the city.

Location: 9801 S Ave G, Calumet Park Beach is a peaceful and scenic spot on Chicago’s South Side. This lesser-known beach offers a serene escape with stunning views of Lake Michigan and plenty of space to relax.

Things to do: Perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking, Calumet Park Beach features a clean, spacious shoreline. The beach is great for families, with safe waters and picnic tables nearby. Visitors can also enjoy strolling along the Lakefront Trail or exploring the adjacent Calumet Park, which has sports fields and walking paths.

Location: 1400 N Lake Shore Drive, Fullerton Beach offers a peaceful retreat along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan. Situated in Lincoln Park, this beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet day by the water.

Things to do: Fullerton Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Lakefront Trail, which runs right next to it. The calm waters and spacious shoreline make it a family-friendly destination, with plenty of room to spread out and relax.

The beach is also close to the Lincoln Park Zoo and North Avenue Beach, making it a great stop for visitors exploring the area. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the beach or take in the natural beauty of the surrounding park, Fullerton Beach provides a serene lakeside experience in the heart of the city.

Location: 1230 W Greenleaf Avenue, Loyola Beach is a serene and scenic spot on the city’s North Side. Situated near Loyola University, this beach offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe compared to some of the more crowded lakefront spots in Chicago.

Things to do: Ideal for a day of swimming, sunbathing, or simply unwinding, Loyola Beach features a wide stretch of sand and calm waters perfect for families and solo visitors alike. The nearby Loyola Park offers grassy areas for picnics, as well as sports courts and playgrounds.

Location: 6300 S Lake Shore Drive, 63rd Street Beach is a peaceful retreat on Chicago’s South Side. Nestled within Jackson Park, this beach offers a quieter alternative to some of the city’s busier spots, making it perfect for a relaxing day by the lake.

Things to do: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a leisurely picnic, 63rd Street Beach boasts a clean shoreline and calm waters. The nearby Lakefront Trail is perfect for biking or walking with scenic lake views. Visitors can also explore the surrounding Jackson Park, home to beautiful gardens and the historic Midway Plaisance.

Location: 7059 S South Shore Drive, South Shore Beach is a beautiful and lesser-known gem among beaches in Chicago. Situated within the historic South Shore Cultural Center, this beach offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, peaceful surroundings, and plenty of space to relax.

Things to do: Visitors can enjoy swimming in calm waters, sunbathing on the soft sand, or exploring the nearby nature trails and gardens. The beach is part of a larger park that features picnic areas, a golf course, and the elegant Cultural Center building, which once hosted Barack and Michelle Obama’s wedding reception.

South Shore Beach is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more scenic beach day away from the downtown crowds. Whether you’re enjoying the water or strolling through the lush park, this spot blends natural beauty with cultural charm — a true hidden treasure among Chicago’s lakefront beaches.

Location: 3111 E 77th Street, Rainbow Beach is a vibrant and historic destination among the many beaches in Chicago. Situated on the South Side in the South Shore neighborhood, this spacious beach offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

Things to do: Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a family picnic, Rainbow Beach features a large sandy shoreline, playgrounds, and plenty of green space. The adjacent Rainbow Beach Park includes sports fields, walking paths, and native plant gardens, making it great for both relaxation and recreation.

It’s also home to one of Chicago’s oldest beach houses and offers seasonal lifeguards and restrooms. Whether you’re looking for a quiet morning stroll or a fun afternoon with friends, Rainbow Beach delivers a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere that makes it a standout spot among Chicago’s lakefront gems.

Location: Humboldt Park neighborhood at 1400 N Sacramento Avenue, Humboldt Park Beach offers a rare inland beach experience in the middle of the city. Unlike the lakefront beaches in Chicago, this beach sits beside a peaceful lagoon, giving visitors a different but equally relaxing vibe.

Things to do: This small, sandy beach is perfect for families looking for a quiet, kid-friendly space to enjoy the sun without heading all the way to Lake Michigan. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for wading, and the surrounding park offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and scenic walking paths.

Location: 5700 S Lake Shore Drive, 57th Street Beach is a beloved South Side destination and one of the more relaxed and family-friendly beaches in Chicago. Nestled within Jackson Park and close to the Museum of Science and Industry, this beach offers soft sand, gentle waves, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Things to do: Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, 57th Street Beach provides beautiful views of Lake Michigan with fewer crowds than the downtown lakefront. The nearby Lakefront Trail makes it easily accessible for bikers and walkers.

Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, and restrooms and concessions are available seasonally. Whether you’re visiting nearby museums or looking for a laid-back day at the beach, 57th Street Beach is a great spot to enjoy Chicago’s lakefront charm in a peaceful setting.

Location:  1050 W Pratt Boulevard, Hartigan Beach is one of the coziest and most peaceful beaches in Chicago. Nestled at the end of a quiet residential street, this small beach offers a calm, neighborhood vibe perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

Things to do: With soft sand, clear Lake Michigan waters, and stunning sunrise views, Hartigan Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with a book. It’s less touristy than many other Chicago beaches, making it a favorite among locals. Visitors can also enjoy nearby green spaces, walking paths, and benches perfect for lakeside picnics. Though there are no major facilities, the peaceful setting more than makes up for it.