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6 beaches near Chicago: Where to go for sun, sand, and surf

The Chicago River flowing through downtown Chicago

Once the summer weather hits Chicago, the city suddenly feels different. The grueling winter where sub-zero temperatures and words like "snowpocalypse" dominate the news gives way and the city finally thaws. After a short spring, the warm weather arrives and is there to stay.

Chicago is dominated by the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. The skyline huddles around the lake, as do the acres of beautiful public parks, like Milton Lee Olive Park and Lakefront Park, and even the Lincoln Park Zoo. Sandwiched between the bustling city streets and vast waters of Lake Michigan are miles of beautiful sandy beachfront. The Chicago Park District operates a few dozen official beaches that have to be on your must-visit list. 

The 6 best beaches near Chicago 

Chicago’s entire lakefront is dotted with public beaches where you can swim completely for free. Chicago beaches are open to the public for swimming starting Memorial Day (the last Monday in May) through Labor Day (the first Monday in September). In general, lifeguards are on duty from 11 AM–7 PM daily. Parking is very limited as space near the lakefront is at a premium, so public transportation is highly recommended. Whether you're looking for a lively scene, a relaxing dog beach, or something family-friendly, Chicago beaches have something for you.

The rocky shore of North Avenue Beach in Chicago with a pier in the distance

North Avenue Beach

This is what’s widely considered the “go-to beach” for locals. It’s one of the largest and by far the most popular, and it’s only a few miles from downtown. And since it’s far enough away from the city, it’s known for having the best view of the skyline to catch a glimpse of the top areas of downtown. It comes complete with beach volleyball courts, a beach house, restaurants, and a whole lot of young folks taking advantage of every last second of summer. 

It’s easy to reach via public transport, and you can even bike up the lakeshore path from downtown. The #72 bus that runs along North Avenue (from hotspots like Wicker Park and Old Town) will have plenty of clothes around. 

As this is one of the more crowded beaches near Chicago, you won't want to be laden down with bags as you're searching for the ideal spot. If you’re carrying lots of things with you, the best option is to store everything except your beach gear with Bounce before you make your way here. We'll keep your bulky items and valuables safe while you visit this iconic Chicago destination.

Indiana Dunes National Park's sandy shoreline on a sunny day

Porter Beach at Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park offers the most fascinating waterfronts of any beach near Chicago. The sweeping dunes that dominate the waterfront offer interest to the vista and are ideal for getting some steps in and breaking a sweat. 

One thing to note: there aren’t lifeguards on duty at Porter Beach, so it’s important that you only swim with a group. The hiking trails around the dunes (and Lake Michigan waters to cool down after) are perfect for something other than waterside fun. 

With traffic, it takes a little over an hour to reach Indiana Dunes from downtown Chicago by car. Public transit is unfortunately not available. And even if you have a car, keeping items stored here can expose them to excessive heat, which may cause damage. It’s safer to trust your bags with Bounce and we'll take care of everything at any one of our Chicago luggage storage spots.

Montrose Beach near Chicago at sunset

Montrose Beach

The most popular of the northern Chicago beaches, Montrose Beach boasts a harbor and acres of grassy fields. These complement the stellar swimming beach and beautiful vantage point of the skyline in the distance. It’s generally easy to reach from downtown via a cab or the CTA red line (with a quick transfer to the Montrose bus). Montrose Beach features all the amenities and comforts you’ll need, with a few extras like a dock where you can rent a kayak and a fishing pier. 

Since the surrounding neighborhoods are mostly residential, Montrose has a family-friendly vibe and one of the best dog beaches in the area. There are also tennis courts and other fun options for a day out. You won’t find many tourists here, and the locals definitely prefer it that way. However, visitors who have done their research will find it easy to fit in and feel at home here. 

While the crowds pale in comparison with North Avenue Beach, Montrose is still quite popular. If you’re looking for more space to spread out and a quieter vibe, North Shore Beach and Loyola Beach are perfect choices. 

Ohio Street Beach in Chicago with the city skyline in the distance

Ohio Street Beach

Situated in the shadows of the Chicago skyline, but far enough away that you can still get a tan, Ohio Street Beach is ideal for visitors who don’t want to leave downtown. It’s tucked away in a tiny corner of downtown across from Navy Pier. It’s walkable from most parts of downtown, including the Mag Mile. It’s smaller and is lighter on the amenities, making it better for a stroll than a swim. 

If you really want to tour the area right, make an afternoon visiting the Art Institute, pop over to Navy Pier, and finish the day taking a selfie at Ohio Street Beach with the skyline behind you. It’s about a 15-minute walk north to nearby Oak Street Beach if you want to compare the two beaches. 

Because this beach is more about what's nearby, you’ll be spending a lot of time sightseeing after you stroll by the water. To maximize your time, don't carry too much. Use a nearby Bounce luggage storage facility to store your beach gear. Umbrellas, large bags, and kids' toys are all welcome!

Kathy Osterman Beach in winter with snow along the shore

Hollywood Beach

The official name is Kathy Osterman Beach, and the “Hollywood” name gives off a more fun vibe. The surrounding neighborhoods are home to student populations, the highly diverse Uptown, and the LGBTQ+ community in Andersonville. Hollywood Beach reflects this diversity and is welcoming. This is one of the best swimming beaches in the city for its impeccable water conditions and well-maintained facilities. 

It’s not easy to reach via public transportation, but you can take a quick cab ride up Lake Shore Drive or even hoof it from downtown on a Divvy bike

When you're not driving here, any extra luggage is guaranteed to get in the way. If you store your non-beach bags with us while you hit Hollywood, you can get around easily.

Rainbow Beach

Located closer to the Indiana border than downtown Chicago, Rainbow Beach feels like a small miracle. One of the southernmost Chicago beaches, Rainbow is popular for its magnificent vantage point of the skyline. It’s also a favorite for serious cyclists who want to make the 12-mile trek from downtown for bragging rights. It’s as local a beach as you’ll find, and one of the south side’s finest. 

You never want to carry extra stuff while you're at the beach, cycling, or hiking, so Bounce is ideal. Plan ahead and don't get caught dragging around heavy backpacks and roller suitcases.

Lake Geneva beaches near Chicago on a clear and sunny day with a golf course on the shoreline

Honorable mentions: beaches in Chicago suburbs and beyond 

  • Lake Geneva: If you have a set of wheels and 90 minutes, you can make the manageable trek to southern Wisconsin (inland from Lake Michigan) and have your pick of half a dozen superb beaches. The primary beach in Lake Geneva City along with beaches in Williams Bay and Fontana all offer great swimming and cheese curds for sustenance. 
  • New Buffalo Beach: The furthest southwest reaches of Michigan are within 90 minutes from downtown Chicago, and this stretch of soft sand is absolutely one of the best. There’s a summer community with ample vacation rentals that comes alive around Memorial Day every year, with plenty of activities like paddleboarding and kayaking to pass the time. 
  • Rosewood Beach: Situated in Highland Park, Rosewood provides the most relaxing beach experience from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Small crowds, soft sand, friendly locals, and lifeguards make it ideal for families with small children. 

The truth is, there are too many beaches near Chicago to mention them all. Forest Park Beach, Marion Mahony Griffin Beach, Helen Doria Beach, and Rogers Beach are other great nearby options. Choosing your favorite is the hardest part.

If you’re planning a trip to any beach during your trip to Chicago, you may need a secure (and dry) place to store your luggage. That’s where Bounce’s secure luggage storage locations can come in handy. All our storage choices are well-situated near travel hotspots, including the lakefront, and they’re staffed by friendly locals who will be happy to lend a hand and provide deep-dish pizza recommendations or their opinions about the White Sox or Cubs.

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