Our affinity for being near the water is certainly increased in the summertime. The closest ocean beach to Illinois is pretty far away, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have places that are worth checking out in the summer. We’ve gathered together seven amazing spots that you need to check out if you’re craving a vacation to a Caribbean paradise or find yourself constantly searching for “tropical places near me.” We’d all love a tropical vacation, but expensive cruises and long plane rides can be impossible for many. Forget all that when you can experience all the fun in the sun you need with all the tropical places in Illinois. Grab your beach towels and sunblock, then head out to some of these amazing attractions. Looking for the closest beach to Illinois? Try these: 

1. Rend Lake
Rend Lake, Illinois, USA
TripAdvisor/WANDTVDoug
We've got a lot of great hidden beaches in Illinois. One of our favorites is the magnificent oasis at Rend Lake. The area around the South Sandusky Campground on the west side of this gigantic lake is particularly beautiful. This Illinois beach will make you feel anywhere but in the Midwest. Rend Lake stretches for 13 miles, so there are many places where you can't see the other side and you can pretend you're at the ocean. The lake is located in southern Illinois, just south of Mt. Vernon. For a perfect summer day, enjoy the beaches or take a boat out on the lake.
2. Clinton Lake
Clinton Lake, Illinois, USA
Google/Laurie Pichla
Clinton Lake is one of our favorite lakes in Illinois. This nearly 5,000-acre reservoir near the town of Clinton will make you feel like you're far away from all your troubles. It's formed like a U-shaped snake and is mostly surrounded by trees. It's in central Illinois and is a fantastic place for a day in the sun.
3. Lake Glendale
Lake Glendale, Illinois 62938, USA
Google/William Parmley
Nestled within the gorgeous Shawnee National Forest in the southern part of the state, this beautiful lake is really something to see. It's actually a rather small lake that's hidden and a little hard to find. In the summer, it's just as good as Aruba or The Bahamas. Head over to Golconda to check it out for yourself!

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4. Sunrise Park (Lake Michigan): Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Sunrise Park, Lake Bluff, IL 60044, USA
Flickr/Lucy Gray
All of us Midwesterners know that Lake Michigan is better than any ocean. All the beaches along Lake Michigan in the Prairie State are immaculate. Located in Lake Bluff, Sunrise Park is an incredible spot that will make you feel like you're on an island. You'll feel so far away from the middle of the United States!
5. North Avenue Beach (Lake Michigan)
North Avenue Beach, Illinois 60614, USA
Flickr/Roman Boed
This lovely beach looks everything like a Caribbean paradise city. Lake Michigan's blue waters and endless horizon feel exactly like you're on the ocean. Be sure to stop by if you find yourself in Chicago in the summer: this is one of the best tropical places in Illinois.

Experience the majesty of this incredible beach near Chicago in this awesome video:

6. Three Oaks Recreational Area: 5517 Northwest Hwy, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Three Oaks Recreation Area, 5517 Northwest Hwy, Crystal Lake, IL 60014, USA
Facebook/Three Oaks Recreation Area
This place may look like a Bahamian paradise, but it's actually an abandoned quarry located at Crystal Lake. This is some of the clearest water in Illinois, and you'll find so many attractions and amenities here. The area has little islands and beautiful beaches that make summer feel endless. The recreational area is great for enjoying fishing and other water activities.
7. Itasca Caribbean Water Park: 100 N Catalpa St, Itasca, IL 60143
Itasca Caribbean Water Park, 100 N Catalpa St, Itasca, IL 60143, USA
Google/Chris Matusiewicz
We can't talk about tropical places in Illinois without mentioning this exotic wonderland. Guests will enjoy water slides, large pools, aquatic playgrounds, and the best tropical-themed decor in the whole state. It'll make you forget you're in Illinois!

Warm seasons in Illinois are such a great time. What other tropical places in Illinois have you visited? Share your favorite Caribbean-like oases with us in the comments.

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Closest Beach To Illinois

Lisa Sammons | May 14, 2022

What is summer in Illinois like?

Summer in Illinois is typically not as hot as in other states, but the mugginess can be dreadful. With the high humidity and 80+ degree temperatures, it can feel pretty darn hot! You'll definitely want to head to a peaceful oasis in Illinois to cool off.

What are the best Illinois beaches?

We are far from the ocean, but that doesn't mean we don't have some great beaches in Illinois! Oak Street Beach in Chicago is particularly cool because you're able to see the Windy City skyline from the beach itself. It's a cool contrast to be on the sandy beaches while observing the city!

Are there any natural lazy rivers in Illinois?

One of our favorite natural lazy rivers in Illinois is the Vermillion River. An all-day float trip down this natural paradise is wonderful! It's one of the best spots for tubing in Illinois. Of course, we also have plenty of water parks where you can experience lazy rivers and other attractions.

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