Best Surf Beaches in Illinois

Located in Chicago’s neighborhood of Uptown, Montrose Beach – also known as Montrose Avenue Beach – is a popular beach with light brown sand and a nearby curved cement pier.  Montrose Beach is a part of a larger recreational park named Lincoln Park.

Montrose Beach has been listed as one of the “The 9 best beaches in Chicago for a taste of the lake life” by Lonely Planet magazine and it was also listed as one of the “The 25 best Chicago beaches” by Time Out Chicago magazine.  It is also a favorite of Randall Kaplan, the world’s foremost beach expert who is known as Mr. Beach.  Montrose Beach is open from 6 am to 11 pm.

North Avenue Beach, located in Chicago's Lincoln Park, is a vibrant and picturesque destination known for its stunning views of the city skyline. The beach is situated at 1600 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive (formerly North Avenue and Lake Michigan), making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. Its unique ocean liner-inspired beach house offers a variety of amenities, including restaurants and rental services for activities like volleyball and kayaking. The beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, attracting large crowds during the annual Air and Water Show. With its revitalized beachfront and walking trails, North Avenue Beach provides a mix of leisure activities and stunning vistas.

The beach area is highly regarded for its recreational opportunities, making it a hub for joggers, bicyclists, and those enjoying water sports. The upper decks of the beach house provide excellent viewpoints for watching the bustling lakefront activities or simply taking in the beautiful horizon. North Avenue Beach is truly a central point for outdoor activities and relaxation, offering something for everyone during all seasons.

During the peak summer months, the beach is equipped with a wide range of amenities, including restrooms and showers, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors.

57th Street Beach is a serene escape located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, offering a tranquil atmosphere amidst the bustling city life. It is nestled within Jackson Park, a historic area designed by Olmsted & Vaux, the renowned architects of Central Park in New York. The beach features fine, golden sand and offers a variety of activities such as swimming, picnicking, and volleyball, making it a versatile destination for all ages. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, ensuring a safe swimming environment. The beach is also surrounded by several attractions, including Hyde Park, known for its cultural contributions and architectural landmarks.

One of the earliest park improvements included a beach made from granite bricks, but it wasn't until after the Columbian Exposition World's Fair that a sand beach was created. The lakefront became popular for public bathing after the completion of the Drainage Canal in 1899. Today, the beach offers modern conveniences like an ADA accessible beach walk, restrooms, and WiFi. Tasty Grill provides a Mexican menu and hot dogs for beachgoers.

Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline from the beach house, which was constructed in 1993. The surrounding Jackson Park spans over 550 acres and includes amenities like a gymnasium, multi-purpose rooms, a fitness center, and various gardens. The park also hosts family events throughout the year, including nights out in the park and holiday-themed celebrations.

Tower Road Park Beach is nestled in the charming town of Glencoe, Illinois. This picturesque beach offers a serene experience with a beautiful stretch of fine, golden sand, making it perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and leisurely walks. The beach is modest in length but provides a comprehensive array of activities like swimming, beach volleyball, and kayaking, ensuring a fun-filled day for visitors. Its tranquil atmosphere is enhanced by the absence of options for camping or surfing, maintaining a peaceful environment. With amenities like bathroom facilities and parking, it caters to a comfortable visit for all.
Tower Road Park Beach is part of a larger area that has historically faced erosion issues due to bluff stabilization efforts, which have reduced natural sand input. Despite these challenges, it remains a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Located near other beaches such as Maple Street Beach, Elder Lane Beach, and Glencoe Beach, it offers easy access to a variety of scenic spots along Lake Michigan.

Lake Forest Beach, located in Lake Forest, Illinois, offers a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. The beach is known for its cleanliness and scenic views, with a large beach area and grass spaces ideal for strolls and picnics. It features amenities like boating, fishing piers, and walking paths, making it a great spot for those who enjoy leisurely activities. However, it lacks some commercial attractions such as surfing or camping, making it more suited for peaceful family outings.


The area surrounding the beach is rich in natural beauty with opportunities for gentle hikes and exploring local flora. This tranquility makes it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, perfect for reconnecting with nature. While it may not have extensive sandy shores, Lake Forest Beach compensates with its charm and accessibility to nearby dining spots and accommodations.

North Point Beach is nestled in the serene landscape of Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, offering a tranquil escape along the shores of Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, fishing, and leisurely walks along its long stretch of golden sand. The beach is dog-friendly and has amenities such as lifeguards during peak seasons, bathroom access, making it a convenient and safe destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

Located nearby is North Point Marina, which features a floating dock system and offers activities like boating and SCUBA diving. The surrounding area also includes dining options and scenic views, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.

The beach complements the charming marina setting, making Winthrop Harbor an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor activities.

Rosewood Beach, located in Highland Park, Illinois, is a vibrant and award-winning destination along the shores of Lake Michigan. Once an underutilized rocky beach, it has been transformed into an eco-friendly and recreational hub through a $14.5 million renovation completed in 2015. The beach features a nature cove for ecological programs, a guarded swimming beach, and a recreation beach. It also includes an Interpretive Center and amenity buildings such as picnic tables, restrooms, and sand rinse stations, all connected by a boardwalk. The beach is open for swimming from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with certified lifeguards supervising during public hours. Rosewood Beach hosts various events like group meetings and family gatherings, making it an ideal spot for both community activities and serene relaxation.

Visitors to Rosewood Beach can enjoy not only the pristine waters but also engage in a variety of educational programs that highlight the importance of Lake Michigan's ecosystem. The surrounding wooded bluffs and beautifully designed amenities create a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.

The beach offers something for everyone, whether it's swimming, nature exploration, or simply enjoying a picnic with family and friends. It also serves as a model for sustainable development and community engagement, reflecting the efforts of local residents and partnerships that have transformed it into a beloved community asset.

Gillson Park is nestled in the charming town of Wilmette, Illinois, offering a serene getaway with its sprawling coastline and inviting sandy stretches along Lake Michigan. The park spans 60 acres, featuring a harbor and beach perfect for swimming, picnicking, volleyball, tennis, and other outdoor sports. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including sailing and fitness trails, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and recreation. The beach is well-equipped with amenities like lifeguards on duty, accessible restrooms, and provisions for visitors with disabilities.
Gillson Park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with its beautiful views and ample recreational opportunities. It's also a great place for family outings, with facilities such as a dog area and playgrounds nearby.
The surrounding area provides easy access to shopping and dining options, enhancing the overall experience of visitors to the park.