Beaches in Illinois

Beaches in Illinois – Chicago Lakefront Beaches & Freshwater Summer Getaways

Illinois may be landlocked, but it’s home to some of the most popular and lively freshwater beaches in the United States. With over 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline in Chicago and scenic beaches along rivers and inland lakes, the beaches in Illinois offer swimming, sunbathing, skyline views, volleyball, and classic summer fun.

From the iconic North Avenue Beach to peaceful spots like Montrose Beach and family-friendly Oak Street Beach, Illinois has a surprising variety of beautiful waterfront escapes.

Why Visit Beaches in Illinois?

• 26+ miles of Lake Michigan shoreline in Chicago
• Clean sandy beaches with excellent amenities
• Chicago skyline views from the beach
• Volleyball, biking paths & lakefront recreation
• Easy access via public transport & biking trails
• Calm freshwater swimming – no saltwater or sharks

Best Beaches in Illinois

These beaches showcase the very best waterfront experiences in Illinois:

Things to Do at Illinois Beaches

• Swim in clean freshwater with no salt or waves
• Walk or bike Chicago’s iconic 18-mile Lakefront Trail
• Play volleyball at North Avenue Beach
• Take photos with the Chicago skyline
• Kayak or paddleboard along the lakeshore
• Picnic at Montrose Beach & explore bird sanctuary
• Relax on quiet beaches near Rogers Park
• Visit Navy Pier, Millennium Park & Museum Campus nearby

Where to Stay Near Illinois’s Best Beaches

Downtown Chicago (Near Oak Street Beach)

• Luxury hotels & high-rise stays
• Perfect for walkable beach access

Lincoln Park / Old Town (Near North Avenue Beach)

• Boutique hotels & urban neighborhoods

Uptown / Edgewater (Near Montrose & Leone Beach)

• Budget-friendly hotels & residential stays

Suburban Lakefront Hotels

• Peaceful lakefront towns like Evanston & Highland Park

Best Time to Visit Illinois Beaches

🌡️ Illinois Beach Water Temperatures

• Summer: 65–75°F
• Early Fall: 65–70°F
• Spring: 45–55°F
• Winter: 32–40°F (frozen conditions)

🚗 How to Get to Illinois’s Beaches

✈️ By Air

• O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
• Midway International Airport (MDW)

🚇 Public Transport (Chicago)

• CTA Red Line → Close to several beaches
• Bus routes along Lake Shore Drive
• Bike rentals via Divvy along the lakeshore

🚗 By Car

• Lakeshore Drive → All Chicago lakefront beaches
• Parking varies by beach (metered & free options)

🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Illinois

• Montrose Dog Beach: Chicago’s top dog-friendly swimming area
• Belmont Harbor Dog Beach: small but convenient dog swim spot
• Inland lakes & forest preserves: several dog-friendly waterfronts

What to Pack for Illinois Beaches

• Sunscreen & sunglasses
• Beach chairs or blankets
• Light jacket (evenings can be cool by the lake)
• Volleyball or paddleboard
• Reusable water bottle

⭐ Best Illinois Beaches by Category

Best for Families

• Montrose Beach
• Oak Street Beach

Best for Scenery

• 12th Street Beach
• Leone Beach

Best for Activities

• North Avenue Beach
• Montrose Beach

FAQs About Illinois Beaches

Explore All Beaches in Illinois Below