Chicago Has a Beach That Looks Like It Belongs in the Mediterranean

I’ve noticed that when friends come to visit me in Chicago, they’re shocked at how absolutely huge Lake Michigan is. What impresses them even more is that we have a beach scene that can hold its own against the best of them. That aquatic paradise is Oak Street Beach, whose sandy shores are an oasis in the heart of the Windy City.

Tucked under the shadow of the John Hancock building, Oak Street Beach is a vacation amidst skyscrapers. Living in the Loop, I found myself walking to Oak Street Beach nearly every weekend in the summer. With yachts floating in the distance, the comforting sound of cars zooming on Lake Shore Drive, and the sun heating up my skin, this watering hole truly is a small slice of heaven in a concrete jungle. 

Oak Street isn’t your typical beach. It’s smack dab in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Chicago. Shift your gaze in either direction, and you’ll see impressive skyscrapers and city lights beaming against the sunset. It’s the type of waterfront that you genuinely cannot find anywhere else.

The iconic Chicago Lakefront Trail goes through this beach. You'll see joggers and bikers making their way on the route, set against the unbeatable views of Lake Michigan. No matter how many times I stroll along the Lakefront Trail across Oak Street Beach, it remains one of those places that makes me think to myself, "Man, Chicago really is the greatest city in the world." When the legendary Chicago cold takes over in the winter, it's memories of Oak Street Beach that remind me why "Summertime Chi" is worth waiting out the freezing weather.

While you're welcome to bring a picnic to the beach, Whispers is a great little spot to refuel. Note that it often shows up as "Oak Street Beach restaurant" on Google Maps. It offers tropical vibes alongside yummy food, including tacos, sandwiches, salads, smoothies, and a coffee bar. It's a very laid-back vibe, so you don't even need to change out of your swimsuit. The restaurant frequently hosts Instagram-worthy events with fabulous decor. If Whispers isn’t your vibe, there are plenty of other options if you take the pedestrian tunnel underneath Lake Shore Drive to the main part of the city.

When you're done hanging out on the water, you're just minutes away from many of Chicago's most famous tourist attractions, like Navy Pier. On Wednesdays and Saturdays during the summer, Navy Pier puts on a fabulous fireworks display. Oak Street Beach is one of the best spots to watch the show. I have countless memories sitting on the beach with my pals in my early 20s, soaking in what is unquestionably a staple Chicago experience. 

The City of Broad Shoulders is known for many incredible things, and Oak Street Beach should be added to that list. With its Greek island-worthy views and stunning waterfront vibes, it's hard to beat this local favorite.