12th Street Beach

Great beach, cool location with lots of stuff around for kids. The lifeguards are way to heavy on the policing side, hollering out when I could easily stand up in the water. The boat came periously close at times, and overall culture of the guards feels aggressive. I grew up on the ocean, with large waves sometimes 10ft, being part of a surf club most of my young adult life. I understand the need for safety but these guards are operating like it's a toddler pool. If you're any type of half decent swimmer go elsewhere as you're be tired of getting yelled at pretty quickly. There was a lot of trash around, I was surprised the staff weren't as zealous about that. I picked up what I could, but be careful near the shower area and steps leading down to the beach. Changing rooms are dingy and dirty, plan around that. You won't want to bring your kids in there. The area itself is wonderful, we meet some park staff at the kids nature reserve and they were wonderful. Definitely visit the area, just don't expect peace if you want to actually swim.

Lovely city beach getaway! What a gem! We set up near small dune area and I really got to unwind and relax. No drama and people having chill beach time together! Lifeguards on it and well maintained! Thank you City of Chicago for providing the means to keep these beaches going for all of us! Went with my grown daughter, it’s the beach that she goes to with her friends, she shared her fave spot with me, now it’s also my fave spot! Five stars!!!!! ☀️ 🏖️ 🌆

12th Street Beach is a smaller, quieter spot tucked along Northerly Island, just a short walk from the Adler Planetarium. The views are wide open, with the lake stretching out in front and the skyline visible in the distance. The sand and water are clean, and you will often see geese and other birds along the shoreline. There are a few tables on the grass and some shade on the northern side if you need to escape the sun for a bit. While there is street parking by Adler, it is best to bike or walk here to avoid the pricy parking.

Amazing beach!!! Probably my favorite place in the city. Great sea glass too.

Really, really awesome place. The water is so pretty and almost looks like the ocean I could sit and listen to them waves all day if you’re ever in Chicago, you have to visit..

Nice beach area. Pretty rocky on your first steps into the water and the water is always cold if you ask me. Nice sand and walking path to find a spot. Typically not too crowded like the other spots.

Really an awesome place to spend the day! The water is so beautiful it almost feels like you’re sitting by the ocean, and the sound of the waves is soothing enough to enjoy for hours. The shore is a nice mix of sand and smooth pebbles, making it comfortable to walk along. Lifeguards are present both in towers and out on boats, which adds a sense of safety. There’s also a concession stand with plenty of food options, so you don’t have to leave if you get hungry. This beach feels more like a bay, with trees lining one side that provide welcome shade on hot days. The water is clean, fresh, and inviting, perfect for swimming or just wading in to cool off. Facilities like restrooms and showers make it convenient for longer stays. It’s easy to see why this is a favorite beach in Chicago—it has everything you’d want for a relaxing and enjoyable day by the lake.