Most Polluted Beaches in Illinois

Fullerton Beach is a picturesque urban retreat located along the vibrant shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago. It offers a moderate length of golden sand, contrasting beautifully with the vast blue waters. This beach is a hub of activity, providing visitors with experiences like volleyball, sunbathing, jogging, and picnicking. However, it lacks amenities such as lifeguards, restrooms, and food options, making it more suited for simple leisure and sports activities. The beach is not considered family-friendly due to these limitations.
Fullerton Beach is surrounded by attractions such as the Chicago History Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, and the Lincoln Park Conservatory, offering a blend of history, nature, and culture nearby.
The beach's proximity to these attractions and its scenic views make it a popular spot for those seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration.

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.

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.