9 Gorgeous Beaches in Illinois That Are Demanding Your Attention This Summer

Are you looking to spend time at the best beaches in Illinois this summer? Illinois is known for its corn and its prairies, and not necessarily for its beaches. So, you may be wondering, "Are there any beaches near me in Illinois?" The good news is, yes! There are actually some really great beaches where you can take the whole family (and sometimes Fido, too), sit on the sand, swim, and soak up the summer rays. Let's discover nine beaches in Illinois for some fun under the summer sun.

1. Illinois Beach State Park, Zion

To start our list of the best beaches in Illinois, we have Illinois Beach State Park, officially called Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park. This gorgeous stretch of beach sits along the shores of Lake Michigan and is a picturesque spot for wildlife, hiking, and swimming. For more information, visit the State Parks web page.

2. Lighthouse Beach, Evanston

A season or day pass is required to sit on this sandy Lake Michigan beach, but it's worth it on those days you want to cool off. It's also accessible for those with disabilities. Visit the Evanston Parks web page for dates and hours that Lighthouse Beach is open.

3. Oak Street Beach, Chicago

You can view the Chicago city skyline from this beach, which has an accessible path to the shoreline. Due to its proximity to the city and its vast stretch of sand, the beach can get quite crowded with swimmers and sunbathers during the summer months. For hours and rules to follow during your visit, head to the Chicago Parks website.

4. Sunrise Park, Lake Bluff

Park District residents are given free access to this stunning beach, while non-residents can purchase a day pass. This is a great, family-friendly Illinois beach that even has a playground. I'd love to take my kids here this summer! For more information on lifeguard hours and beach fees for non-residents, visit the Lake Bluffs Parks website.

5. Northwestern Beach, Evanston

This lovely beach is located at the north end of Northwestern's campus, but all are welcome to visit. For open beach dates and membership fees, visit the Northwestern Recreation web page.

6. Glencoe Beach, Chicago

If you are looking for things to do in summer in Illinois, come to Glencoe Beach, which has it all! From a playground to SUP board, sailboat, and kayak rentals, a playground, sun shelters, and locker rooms, this is the ultimate beach to spend the day and one of the best places to swim in Illinois. For beach pass information, visit the Glencoe Park District website.

7. Rend Lake, Benton

Rend Lake offers a wide variety of recreation beyond its lovely beach. Spend some time on the sand and then head out on a hike, bike ride, kayak, play some golf, and/or rent a cabin. For more lodging information at the lake, visit the Rend Lake website.

8. Lake Shelbyville, Shelby County

Lake Shelbyville has some of the most beautiful beaches in Illinois and is quite a destination for all the things to do here, including camping. Aside from four public beaches, it's close to historical sites and plenty of lodging. To reserve a campsite at Lake Shelbyville, head to Recreation.gov.

9. Montrose Beach, Chicago

Here is another accessible beach with a beach walk. Located within Lincoln (Abraham) Park, Montrose Beach has amenities like concessions and lifeguards on duty during the summer season. Visit the Chicago Park District's website for location information and essential rules.

What do you think of this list of beaches in Illinois? Do you know of other beaches or places to go swimming in Illinois? Tell us all about it by filling out our nomination form.

If you are looking to spend time out on a river in Illinois for some summer fun, head to Knoch Knolls Park in Naperville for a kayak paddling tour on the DuPage River. For views of Chicago from the water, take the exciting Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile, which is both fun and informative!