The Best Chicago Beaches

Ready for a beach day in Chicago? Luckily, there are plenty of nearby lakefront beaches along Lake Michigan. Many of these beaches are also located close to Chicago’s favorite neighborhoods, dining spots and luxury living options. Check out the must-see Chicago beaches:

Top Chicago Beaches

Oak Street Beach– 100 N Lake Shore Drive- Located near the Gold Coast/Streeterville neighborhoods, this Chicago beach is one of the closest ones to the downtown area of the city. It’s situated steps away from the famous Drake Hotel and across the street from the Magnificent Mile and Oak Street shopping district, making it a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. While you’re soaking up the sun and city views, be sure to grab some food and drinks at Whispers, which sits directly on the water. You can also grab food-to-go at one of the many surrounding restaurants.

North Avenue Beach– 1600 N Lake Shore Drive-This walkable or bike-able beach sits right next to the Lincoln Park Zoo. As one of the most popular Chicago beaches, North Avenue offers great vibes and a unique beach house containing 22,000 square feet of space. Throughout the summer, visitors can enjoy plenty of events, from concerts to beach volleyball matches. The beach is also home to Castaways Bar and Grill, a fun spot for scenic drinks, beverages, and desserts.

Montrose Beach– 4400 N Lake Shore Drive- As Chicago’s only dog-friendly beach, Montrose attracts many furry friends and their owners. It’s a bit further from the downtown in the Uptown neighborhood, giving less of an urban feel and making it the perfect weekend getaway. It’s a great place to bike, jog, fish, or walk the pups. You can also rent paddleboards and kayaks as a fun water activity.

Ohio Street Beach– 600 N Lake Shore Drive- This Chicago beach is tucked away in the Streeterville neighborhood adjacent to Jane Adams Memorial Park and the Jardine Water Filtration Plant. It offers access to the Lakefront Trail, which winds past the beach. Unlike most Chicago Beaches, Ohio Street Beach faces the North, making it an ideal site for open-water swimming. Here you can find restrooms, locker facilities, concessions and umbrella and chair rentals.

Osterman Beach– 4600 N Lake Shore Drive- Located at the northernmost tip of Lincoln Park in the Edgewater community, this crescent-shaped beach boasts native dune habitat along Lake Michigan. It makes a beautiful spot to take in the beauty of dune grasses and other flowering plants as part of the beach experience. 

If you’re looking to move to a luxury apartment near the Chicago beaches, let Luxury Living Chicago Realty help. Our team can help find you your ideal apartment in the perfect location.

Follow the link below for more fun summer activities in Chicago!