Most Crowded Beaches In Illinois

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4.25

North Avenue Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

North Avenue Beach, located in Chicago, United States, presents an iconic front to Lake Michigan with its broad stretch of sand and striking city skyline views. This well-loved beach is not only known for its light golden sand but also for the plethora of activities available. Here, visitors can enjoy volleyball, swimming, sunbathing, and a fresh breeze ideal for kite flying. North Avenue Beach has many amenities including lifeguards on duty during the appropriate season, access to bathrooms, and facilities catering to individuals with disabilities. However, it's worth noting that dogs are not allowed on the beach, there's no provision for camping or surfing, and sun-seeking naturists will have to look elsewhere as nude bathing is also not permitted. This bustling Chicago spot ensures a well-rounded visit with its comprehensive facilities.

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4.25

Loyola Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

Loyola Beach, nestled in the vibrant city of Chicago, United States, stretches along the shores of Lake Michigan with its moderate expanse of golden sand, inviting locals and visitors alike for a city escape. Despite being an urban beach, Loyola Beach provides a unique blend of activities including swimming, beach volleyball, picnicking, and sunbathing, making it a bustling spot during the warmer months. While it doesn't offer the broad palette of water sports found at other beaches, its serene environment offers a refreshing juxtaposition to the city's hustle and bustle. Loyola Beach has few amenities, so plan your trip accordingly, although it does have bathroom access and lifeguards on duty during specified hours, providing a safe swimming environment for families and solo beachgoers alike. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed, making it less ideal for those wishing to enjoy a beach day with their furry companions.

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4.6

12th Street Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

Nestled against the vibrant backdrop of Chicago's skyline, 12th Street Beach is a serene escape within the bustling city. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this picturesque beach stretches invitingly with its soft, golden sand. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and volleyball. 12th Street Beach has many amenities including lifeguards on duty during operational hours, ensuring a safe environment for water activities. Bathroom access is provided for convenience, and the beach is accessible for individuals with disabilities, showcasing the inclusive nature of this urban oasis. However, it's important to note that dogs are not allowed, and there are no options for camping or surfing at this location.

Sandee South Shore Cultural Center Beach

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4.1

South Shore Cultural Center Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

Nestled along the vibrant shores of Chicago, the South Shore Cultural Center Beach presents a scenic waterfront escape within the city's limits. This picturesque beach spans a considerable length, boasting fine, golden sands that glisten under the Illinois sun. Visitors can indulge in a plethora of activities ranging from leisurely strolls, picnicking with breathtaking views of the Lake Michigan horizon, to engaging in volleyball matches on its sandy courts. South Shore Cultural Center Beach has many amenities including lifeguards on duty during designated hours ensuring a safe swimming environment, accessible restrooms for comfort, and a strict policy disallowing dogs to maintain its pristine conditions. However, those looking to camp, surf, or bring their furry friends will need to find alternative locations, as these activities are not permitted here.

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4.15

Rainbow Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

Located in the southern portion of Chicago, Rainbow Beach – also previously known as Rocky Ledge Beach and Lake Michigan Beach – is a curve-shaped beach with light brown sand and a nearby rocky breakwater. This beach is a part of a larger recreational park named Rainbow Beach Park. Rainbow Beach is open between 11 am to 6 pm.

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4.55

31st Street Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

Located in a recreational park named Burnham Park in Chicago, 31st Street Beach Chicago – officially known as Margaret T. Burroughs Beach and also known as Burroughs Beach and Margaret Taylor Burroughs Beach – is a small and popular beach along Lake Michigan with light brown sand and nearby breakwaters. 31st Street Beach is open between 6 am to 11 pm. Known as one of the best beaches in Chicago, this beach is a must-see for tourists and locals alike.

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4.8

Oak Street Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

Located near the neighborhood of Streeterville in Chicago, Oak Street Beach is a popular small beach with light brown sand, a gradual sloping incline, and a backdrop of high-rise buildings along Lake Michigan.

Oak Street Beach has been listed as one of the “The 25 Best Chicago Beaches” by Time Out Chicago, has been listed as one of the “25 Best Beaches in the USA” by Travel + Leisure magazine, and was named the 22^nd best beach in the United States by Randall Kaplan, the world’s foremost beach expert who is known as Mr. Beach.

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4.2

Montrose Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

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.

Most Crowded Beaches in Illinois

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