Chicago - all beaches

We had a great time swimming in the evening at this beach while admiring the buildings, boats, and sunset. The shoreline is a bit rocky, and the water is not as clear as Foster Ave Beach, but I appreciate its proximity to the Magnificent Mile and the fact that it's just a short walk from our hotel. It's also not too crowded, and there are public restrooms nearby, although we didn't need to use them. Overall, we had a lovely time and plan to come back.

A serene and picturesque beach nestled in a semi-private area of northwest Indiana, offering a refreshing escape from the bustling and noisy city beaches typical of Chicago and even Indiana Dunes. Its tranquil location makes it incredibly relaxing. There is ample parking available; you pay at the card machines and place your paper receipt on your dashboard to inform security that you've paid. The parking rates are reasonable, averaging $12.50 for two hours. You can extend your time in half-hour or hour increments until 6pm, which is when the beach closes. Security personnel inform everyone of the 6pm closing time. Large trash cans are available on the beach, but be cautious of bees that tend to swarm around them. Outdoor showers are conveniently located near the parking lot for rinsing off sand, and there are large port-o-potties near the showers as well. Note that there is no lifeguard on duty, so swimming is at your own risk. The water depth reaches up to 5'6", which is quite comfortable. The charming town of Whiting is easy and interesting to navigate through on the way to the beach, giving the impression of being in another state. However, be aware that you might be delayed by freight trains, Amtrak, etc., for up to 30+ minutes just before the beach entrance, as happened to me. Initially, everyone seemed impatient, but when the gates finally lifted, cheers erupted from multiple cars.

They claim you can swim here, but unless you're 4 feet tall, that's not really true. They constantly patrol the area in row boats, and even on green flag days, they won't let you go beyond waist-deep water for a short person. So, no real swimming. Additionally, there are homeless individuals around who might take anything left unattended.

The beach view reveals a mesmerizing panorama where the blue sea meets the city skyline. Sunsets bathe the horizon in warm colors, softly illuminating both the sand and the skyscrapers. This scene effortlessly blends the peacefulness of the coast with the energy of city lights, crafting an enchanting visual experience that remains in your memory as a serene yet vibrant masterpiece.

This beach is the ideal spot for your furry friend to cool off in the summer heat! The water is shallow enough, and during the weekdays, it's much less crowded. There's convenient free parking nearby. Just keep in mind that it's a dog beach, so be cautious when setting up your sunbathing area – you might end up with a dog marking its territory on your chair! So far, the people here have been very friendly.

One of my preferred locations. You can savor the sight of urban skyscrapers. You can grill out there.