Most Crowded Beaches In Illinois

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4.25

Loyola Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

Loyola Beach, nestled in Chicago's East Rogers Park community, offers a serene escape with its golden sand and beautiful views of Lake Michigan. The beach is part of the expansive Loyola Park, which provides a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, beach volleyball, and picnicking. It features a natural dune habitat and a scenic walking trail along the lakefront, making it ideal for nature lovers and casual strollers alike. The area is also home to a large fieldhouse with various facilities, tennis courts, and a playground, catering to both locals and visitors.
Loyola Beach is particularly family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty during the day and organized events throughout the summer. It is also a great spot for birdwatchers, offering a glimpse into local wildlife.
The beach's proximity to Loyola University and the scenic Rogers Park neighborhood adds to its appeal, providing access to cultural and educational experiences while still offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling city.

Sandee South Shore Cultural Center Beach

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4.1

South Shore Cultural Center Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

South Shore Cultural Center Beach is nestled within a sprawling 70-acre park in Chicago's South Shore neighborhood. The beach itself offers a beautiful stretch of sand with distance swimming allowed during lifeguarded hours. The surrounding park boasts a nature sanctuary, a butterfly garden, a nine-hole golf course, and open spaces for picnics and walks. The cultural center, once a country club, is a landmark building now housing various facilities like a solarium, formal dining hall, the Paul Robeson Theater, and the Parrot Cage Restaurant. It hosts numerous cultural programs and events throughout the year. The beach and surrounding facilities are accessible by car or public transit.
The South Shore Cultural Center's rich history dates back to 1905 when it was built as an exclusive country club. It later became a cultural hub after being purchased by the Chicago Park District in 1975. The area is a vibrant community center today, offering recreational activities and educational programs.
Visitors to the beach can enjoy the serene environment and take part in seasonal activities such as summer camps and holiday events, making it a family-friendly destination.

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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.

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4.6

12th Street Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

12th Street Beach is a scenic destination located near the Museum Campus in Chicago, Illinois. It was created as part of the development of Northerly Island in the early 20th century. The beach offers a mix of natural beauty and urban amenities, including restrooms, food options like Del Campos, and a non-motorized boat launch. Visitors can enjoy swimming, walking paths, and beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. It's an ideal spot for families and those looking for a tranquil escape within the city.
The beach's history is tied to Chicago's architectural development and significant events like the World's Fair in the 1930s. Today, it remains a popular spot for relaxation and recreation.
The nearby attractions such as the Adler Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium add to its appeal as a comprehensive leisure destination.

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4.25

North Avenue Beach

United States, Illinois, Chicago

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.

Most Crowded Beaches in Illinois

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