Are you looking for somewhere to spend your summer vacation? If so, look no further. I have you covered! The following eight beaches will make your day, weekend, or vacation unforgettable in more ways than one. They’re also some of the best hidden beaches in Illinois that are certainly worth discovering. You’ll want to make plans to visit them all.

1. Leone Beach

Leone Beach, Illinois 60626, USA
Flickr/renee_mcgurk
This Lake Michigan beach is tucked into a corner of northern Chicago between other beaches. It is not frequented as much as the other city beaches, making it an excellent spot to find a place that is all your own. Learn more about the best private beach in Illinois.

2. Keyesport Beach

103 Republican St, Keyesport, IL 62253, USA
Facebook/Carlyle Lake
Centered around the largest man-made lake in the state, Carlyle Lake, this beach in southern Illinois is fun for the entire family. It is surrounded by natural wonders like forests with hiking trails, making it a semi-private beach. Take a deeper look at one of the best hidden beaches in Illinois.

3. Pearl Lake Beach

Pearl Lake, South Beloit, IL 61080, USA
Facebook/Pearl Lake
This beautiful lake is used for camping and other resort-style fun. The beach is large enough for 100 guests at a time. It has a unique shape that locals love. This is certainly a place to add to your bucket list if you love beaches. For additional details about Pearl Lake, which is home to Pearl Lake Beach, explore more about one of the premier beaches in Illinois not in Chicago.

4. South Sandusky Beach

Rend Lake, Illinois, USA
Facebook/Rend Lake Project Office/ Visitor Center
Families can enjoy a full day of fun on this sandy patch of land that stretches around the edges of Rend Lake. In addition to the beach, there are picnic areas and places to change and wash the sand from your feet. You have to learn more about South Sandusky Beach - it will not disappoint!

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5. Lake Bluff Sunrise Beach

784 E Prospect Ave, Lake Bluff, IL 60044, USA
Flickr/Lucy Gray
Residents of Lake Bluff can access this most astounding of hidden beaches for free. Situated on Lake Michigan, it is one of the northernmost beaches in the state that exists on this expansive Great Lake. Though small, guests love the private feel and exclusivity. Discover more about one of Illinois' best-kept secret private beaches.

6. Rosewood Beach

Rosewood Beach, 883 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035, USA
Google/Pete Fussle
Open from dawn to dusk, this pristine beach offers excellent views and is a great place to swim. There is plenty of parking as well as picnic areas for families to enjoy. Here is more information about one of the top 'beaches near me.'

Note: Rosewood Beach is closed for swimming until after Memorial Day.

7. Oakwood Beach

Oakwood Beach, Chicago, IL 60653, USA
Tripadvisor/Annaline
This Chicago beach is another hidden spot along Lake Michigan that Illinoisans love to use for access to the water. Summer days are so much better when you're here. Check it out to find out more about Oakwood Beach.

Note: Swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty.

8. Olson Lake Beach

Rock Cut State Park, 7223 West Lane Rd, Caledonia, IL, USA
Tripadvisor/Jennifer S
Located at Rock Cut State Park, this is a beach that few people know is in Illinois. It is situated near our border with Wisconsin and is a wonderful place for all sorts of nature attractions. Take a peek for more details about Olson Lake Beach.

If you’ve ever been to one of these eight hidden beaches in Illinois, I’d love to hear from you. Please share your experience(s) and photos with us – I’d love to know what you think!

For more fun things to do in Illinois, be sure to pack your handy road trip packing list and check out this spontaneous road trip that is the perfect weekend of adventure. Need more? Then you can’t miss these one-of-a-kind experiences.

The Spontaneous Road Trip Through Illinois That Is The Perfect Weekend Of Adventure

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More to Explore

Best Hidden Beaches In Illinois

Jennifer Young | June 28, 2024

What are the most beautiful beaches in Illinois?

Illinois isn't known for its traditional sandy beaches like coastal states, but there are some scenic spots along its lakeshores worth visiting:

  • Illinois Beach State Park: Offers a beautiful stretch of sandy beach along Lake Michigan.
  • North Avenue Beach: Located in Chicago, it's a popular urban beach with skyline views.
  • Ohio Street Beach: Another urban beach in Chicago, known for its proximity to Navy Pier.
  • Montrose Beach: A quieter beach in Chicago with a natural area nearby for birdwatching.
  • Kankakee River State Park: Features riverfront views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking.

These spots offer a mix of natural beauty and recreational opportunities along Illinois' waterways.

 

Are there any natural lazy rivers in Illinois?

In Illinois, natural lazy rivers aren't as prevalent as in some other states, but there are a few spots where you can experience a similar relaxing float:

  • Sugar Creek: Known for its gentle flow through scenic forests and pastures, ideal for tubing and canoeing.
  • Kankakee River: Offers slow-moving sections perfect for lazy river floats and fishing, surrounded by natural beauty.
  • Apple River Canyon State Park: Features a tranquil river with smooth currents, popular for tubing and wildlife spotting.
  • Rock River: Winds through picturesque landscapes, providing opportunities for kayaking and relaxing floats.
  • Mackinaw River: Serene waters winding through rural areas, ideal for leisurely paddling and birdwatching.

These rivers offer opportunities to enjoy nature from the water, though it's advisable to check local conditions and regulations before planning a float trip.

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