Top Beaches to Visit In and Around Cook county

North Avenue Beach offers a refreshing escape in the heart of Chicago, providing a stunning urban beach experience along the gorgeous coastline of Lake Michigan. 🌊 Bask in the sun ☀️, unwind on the golden sands 🏖️, and marvel at the breathtaking city skyline 🌆 that serves as a backdrop to this vibrant beach haven. Whether you seek a family-friendly environment 👨‍👩‍👧, thrilling water activities 🚣‍♂️, or simply a place to relax and rejuvenate 🧘‍♀️, North Avenue Beach has it all!

Ohio Street Beach is a tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of Chicago, perfect for a relaxing day by Lake Michigan. 🌊 This beach boasts calm and shallow waters, ideal for swimming 🏊‍♀️ and paddleboarding 🏄‍♂️. The stunning Chicago skyline 🌆 serves as a backdrop, creating an iconic view that’s perfect for photos. Additionally, families with kids will appreciate the no-dog policy, ensuring a serene atmosphere for everyone. 🌞 Whether you’re looking to unwind in the sun or enjoy some water activities, Ohio Street Beach is a delightful escape in the city!

Loyola Beach offers a picturesque setting ideal for enjoying a relaxing day by Lake Michigan. 🌊 The beach provides a serene escape from the bustling city of Chicago, allowing visitors to soak in the beauty of nature and unwind in a tranquil environment. 🌅 Whether you're keen on watching the sunrise or sunset, admiring stunning views of the lake, or simply lounging on the sandy shore 🏖️, Loyola Beach caters to all kinds of beach enthusiasts. Nestled in the East Rogers Park community, the beach features various amenities such as a woodshop, clubrooms, fitness centers, and a boxing center. Outside the beach, visitors can enjoy ball fields for softball and baseball, sand volleyball courts, a basketball court, a playground, tennis courts, and a walking trail along the lake. This beautiful location also boasts a lighthouse and a natural dune habitat, making it a delightful destination for everyone! ✨

South Shore Beach is a hidden treasure located in Illinois. 🌊 This scenic beach provides a tranquil and family-friendly vibe, with a nearby golf course ⛳ and access to a cultural center 🎭. The well-kept gardens and beautiful shoreline create an ideal setting for relaxation or engaging in water activities 🏄‍♂️. Lifeguards are attentive and friendly, ensuring a safe experience for all guests. The beach also features occasional music festivals during the summer, enhancing its appeal as a welcoming destination for everyone. ✨

Gillson Park is a charming recreational area located in Wilmette, Illinois. This park/beach offers visitors a serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities, making it a popular spot for families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 and friends to gather. With beautiful green spaces, walking paths🚶‍♀️, and scenic views of Lake Michigan 🌊, Gillson Park provides ample opportunities for picnicking 🍉, sports, and leisurely strolls. Whether you're enjoying a day at the beach 🏖️ or exploring the nature trails, this park is an ideal destination for outdoor fun! ✨

Kathy Osterman Beach is a charming beach located in Chicago, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life 🌆. The beach provides free entrance to all visitors, making it an accessible and delightful destination for relaxation 🏖️. Though some have noted concerns about the water cleanliness 💧 and restrictions on swimming 🏊, the overall experience at Kathy Osterman Beach is praised for its scenic beauty, gentle waves 🌊, and refreshing breeze.

Foster Beach in Illinois is a serene and picturesque destination offering visitors a perfect retreat from city life. 🌊 The crystal-clear waters and sandy shores create a tranquil ambiance ideal for relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to read a book 📚, play beach volleyball with friends 🏐, or simply take a refreshing swim 🏊‍♀️, Foster Beach has something for everyone. The breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and nearby high-rise buildings 🌆 add to the charm of this natural haven, making it an inviting escape for all.🏖️

Columbia Beach, nestled in Illinois along the shores of Lake Michigan, is a serene retreat that invites visitors to unwind in its tranquil surroundings. With soft sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect spot for sunbathing ☀️ or enjoying a refreshing dip. The picturesque backdrop of dunes and a charming lighthouse adds to the beach's allure, making it an ideal escape from city life. Whether you’re looking to relax, take a leisurely stroll, or watch the stunning sunset, Columbia Beach has something for everyone.

Howard Beach is a delightful and peaceful spot renowned for its smooth rock-and-sand shoreline. 🌊 Perfect for families, especially those with children who enjoy collecting rocks, this quaint half-block beach features a playground with climbing structures nearby 🪨.  While the scenery is beautiful, parents should be mindful of safety, ensuring their little ones stay clear of the concrete edges ⚠️. With convenient street parking available nearby, Howard Beach provides a tranquil setting for a leisurely day outdoors. ☀️

Clark Street Beach is a charming and well-maintained beach located in Evanston, Illinois 🌊, offering a serene escape with clean sandy shores 🏖️ and the refreshing waters of Lake Michigan 🌅. It's perfect for both families and solo visitors, providing a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation, swimming, and beach activities. Close to Northwestern University, the beach is equipped with restrooms, outdoor showers, and nearby green spaces for picnics 🧺. A beach token is required for entry, ensuring a well-managed and pleasant experience.