What a perfect little find! I cannot believe in all my trips to Chicago, I never knew about this spot. While driving past looking for an entrance to another park that ended up blocked by construction, I couldn't help but notice umbrellas being setup over here. My best friend and I decided to venture over. We saw a nice amount of vendors setting up on a random Friday afternoon. The scenery was beautiful. A nice peaceful, yet lively atmosphere. We pinned the location and will add it to our regular location. read more

63rd St Beach - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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It was a decent beach, sand and water. I suggest coming early like how I did today. Coming early around 7-8 am means there's less people and you can enjoy the view. read more

63rd St Beach - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Went here for a community event cleaning the beach of debris. We skirted the other wooded (grassy) area as well. It was in September and windy. I think during the summer it would be nice here and fairly large. Nice view of the north side of the city. read more

11/19/20 - REVIEW 998 Chicago's 18 mile Lakefront is stunning along w/the urban planning by Daniel Burnham's master plan to utilize the lakefront shoreline & make it accessible to the public. The 63rd Street Beach is just another outstanding example of this master plan. As I was walking south from Promontory Point there is a vast stretch of open paths for walking, running & biking extending in both directions north and south. As you near 63rd Ave there is a beach that extends to a building that I later found out is the Eric Hatchett Pavilion/63rd Avenue Beach House. This is part of The Chicago Park District but is currently closed to the public. As you approach there is a welcome sign to The 63rd Street Beach Natural Area. The approach to the 63rd street beach as you head south are paths lined w/prairie grass. The path leads to the lakefront and a breakwater/pier that extends out about 3/10 of a mile from the beach. It starts out perpendicular to the shore then halfway it bends at an obtuse angle. I walked to the end & was rewarded w/an awesome vantage point in any direction I looked. To the south you can see Promontory Point & the Chicago Skyline to the east the water intake & Indiana across Lake Mi. The west is the 63rd Avenue Beach, The Beach House & Jackson Park. This pier serves as a breakwater to mitigate the destructive power of the water. It was pretty brisk outside w/the wind blowing south to north @ about 20mph. I could see how strong the current was carrying out along the pier. If a person would go off the pier the current would carry them out into the lake. I really had to hang onto my phone tightly & step carefully because of the wind. This was a very cool experience walking the pier. Fortunately the waves weren't strong enough to wash up on the pier and besides the wind there wasn't any lake water washing up and over when I was out there. This is just another beautiful example of the development of Chicago's lakefront for public use. read more

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Gorgeous beach with an onsite bar and restrooms which was convenient. Parking is fairly priced and plenty of space. There were a few sketchy people just hanging out in the parking lot staring at everyone which was a bit annoying, but other than that it's a great place to relax on the weekend. read more

63rd St Beach - Entrance view - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Hidden gem of Chicago in my opinion. The sand was extremely soft and the water was so warm when I went. Great relaxing vibes. A little walk if you don't want to pay for parking. read more

63rd St Beach - Jet ski rental was $100 for 3 mins - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Great beach! Very family friendly! There is also a bar for adults and you can get snack food for the kids. read more

63rd St Beach - Beach - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

So now that Promontory Point has become a 'destination' - thanks to a few ROTDs and a fantastic setting - what about going even more south?!? Dudes, take your mind out of the gutter (not THAT south) and head towards 63rd street beach. You won't regret it. And you won't be mugged, attacked, crucified or burned at stake either. I guarantee it (much like the Men's Wearhouse commercial, except my voice is not as deep, thank God) It's certainly one of the loveliest places in the city, and one of the oldest too. Remember the World Fair in 1893? Well those guys did a hell of a job down here and the end result is still standing for you to marvel upon. The Museum of Science and Industry is of course the most famous remnant of the era but Jackson Park, its lagoons, its marinas, its birds (including a colony of wild parakeets, yes sir), its Japanese garden is a gem to be discovered. Really. As for the beach itself....imagine a little bay, with soft sand and a nic, gentle surf. And first and foremost, a wonderful bathing pavilion - wonder of Classical Revival style built in 1914 and totally restored in 2000. Open to the winds it's a wonderful place to cool down during a hot summer day. The views are gorgeous and you can freshen up at the water feature in the back if you don't 'do the lake'. So. Lovely. Additional perks: - free parking - grills - ADA accessible (there's a ramp that leads to the water, two thumbs up) - restrooms - this summer, home of the city's only true food truck, Chicago All Fired Up. If you want fried fish and shrimp, fried chicken and ribs when you are soaking up the sun or walking on the trail, you've got it. I mean....seriously?!? You are almost not in Chicago anymore. read more

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Definitely a vibe. Police were nice and it was a great scenery. One of the best Beaches in Chicago.

Reggie's on the Beach, is where it's at! Don't let this one pass you by. Great for watching those sports games and enjoying the lake view. The food is on point. Onion rings are big and crispy. Bratwurst are juicy and the wings are damn tasty!! This is great for large groups or small groups. You can even toss the football while you chill in this beach bar! Beers are tall boys and prices are on point. I definitely recommend to chill here with friends or solo and make some new friends. Nice staff that checks on you often and nice people at this establishment. Tell Angel Noemi & Freddy sent you! He is a great guy. read more

63rd St Beach - The beach view on a beautiful sunny Sunday while the bears play! - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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We use this spot as a JOP for biking along the path. Parking is cheap and plentiful on Friday afternoons. Clean beach, some grills, jet ski and water sports rentals. Bathrooms are clean and stocked. We come all the way in from the other side of Ohare, and it is head ache free and worth it! The pier is fun too, but it can get windy, of course. Lots of fishing people. Great spot for a horizon picture. Look south to see Indy beaches. read more

63rd St Beach - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My friend took me here for an annual party his friend throws and it was a good time. There was beach volleyball, good music, and families grilling. I like that right next to the beach was also a basketball court where kids were playing at and if you want to get away from the crowds there's an area you can walk to by the boats that is less populated. All in all a good time. It wasn't my favorite beach, but it's nice to have options. Oh I should mention there was plenty of free parking. read more

fun and enjoyable times with family and friends for birthdays very much needed, and appreciated love

Very impressed with the professionalism and diligence of the life guards. They appeared to be in total control of the beach and its visitors. I was proud to see a predominately young African Americans staff demonstrate such a high level of care and attention to the beach and their position as life guards. I will definitely return often to 63rd street beach in the future. read more

63rd St Beach - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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i almost drowned at this beach as a kid from a sink hole or whatever you call it. thank God my older brother saved my life. my advice is always hold hands in the water and have fun, enjoy life! read more

Beautiful, beautiful beach. PERFECT for little kids and families. My family and I went, while visiting some friends in Chicago and I cannot wait to go back!! read more

Anyone who says North Avenue Beach is the best beach in the city has obviously never been here. This beach is cleaner, has a gorgeous beach house dating from 1919, offers opportunities for beachcombing (shells and sea glass aplenty), is usually less crowded, is not trashed after the air and water show, and has small events from time to time for those who do not actually care for swimming but like beaches nonetheless. Its proximity to a lovely historic park is a plus. The ability to park your car a reasonable distance from the beach is a plus. The fact that in 1913, a swimmer here took a stand against excessive modesty and bared her skin, leading to her arrest, means that coming to this beach is standing solidarity with lovers of bikinis and other revealing swim garb all over the world. Also, this is not one of those wading beaches where lifeguards toot at you for getting far enough from the shore to cover your shoulders. It's actually swimable, but walking along the shore with the water lapping at your toes while you gaze out over the open lake is wonderful all on its own. Honestly, I don't come here enough, and I think I'm not the only one who overlooks this lovely place too often. This beach is as nice as an Evanston beach, but free. If you somehow find yourself directly in the center of Chicago, hankering for a swim, and not sure whether to go north or south, head on down and skip the hustle and bustle of Oak Street Beach or the daily fee at South Avenue Beach. You won't regret it. read more

I LOVE watching the movement of water (and fire, too, but that's a story for another time)! It's calming and transcendent. I can sit at/on/near a body of water for hours and not be bored or restless. Since 63rd Street Beach is the closest to me (and nicer than Rainbow Beach), I will frequent it during any season. There is usually plenty going on during the summer months, from the drummer's circle to the Jamaican guy manning his pit, to dance classes and movies. However, I can still usually find a nice, private spot. There are also grills for barbequeing, a concession stand, and, now, jet ski rentals! It's a great vantage point from which to view the skyline, watch the sun rise, or just be. A'she read more

The 63rd Street Beach is a truly a gem on Chicago's southern lakefront, and the beachhouse is one of the most beautiful public facilities that exists in the city. The whole area including the beach is really clean and open and inviting. The surrounding neighborhoods are a little sketchy, so if you do public transportation, go in a group. If you drive, there are generously sized parking lots and you should be able to find a spot with no problem. If you are tired of fighting the crowds at North Avenue Beach and are looking for a little more peace, head down south. You will NOT be disappointed. read more

Oh- what? No real reason to hit the south side? What- the lakeshore is best up on the north side? You have SO MISSED Hyde Park if you think that there is any other neighborhood with a lovelier lakefront. Parks- fountains- beach- swimming- lakefront paths- lagoons- nature- bird watching- gardens- fishing- basketball courts- tennis courts- croquette parks- sand volleyball- boccie- marinas- marina bars. If you want to do ANY of these things- you better come to the lake front in Hyde Park and Woodlawn between 55th St and 63rd St. My friend Mary and I have been doing our summer walking around the lakefront, and not only is it very clean, very few people hogging the bike path, and unobstructed lake view and city views, but it seems every time we head out to a new area- we always say "Oh my gawd- this is so pretty- I'm bringing my camera next time!!" Never a problem with safety (but we also only go in the daytime/ early evening). If you have not explored this section of lakefront, it is high time. You really are missing one of the nicest areas of the city. Scratch that. You are really missing one of the nicest areas in the Midwest. read more

I have been to many lakefront beaches on the North and South sides and unquestionably, the 63rd Street beach is my absolute favorite. And, this is NOT because I live on the Southside either. Really. You never know what event you will find taking place at this beach in the summer. My husband and I walk our dog there and we have been fortunate to catch many outdoor festivals, concerts and other events every time. The surrounding neighborhoods are not "sketchy" as indicated by another reviewer. I go all hours of the day and night and have never had any problem whatsoever. Take the time to visit this place - you will NOT be disappointed. read more

Based off the glowing reviews on here we decided to visit this beach a few weeks ago. PROS * The sand is great for making sand castles with the kids * There are lifeguards a plenty * Depth of entry is super shallow and gradual so again, great for kids * Super close parking * Not at all crowded. We had a ton of beach to ourselves. * Tons and tons and TONS of seashells er, lakeshells to examine, collect, etc. CONS * TONS of shells washed up in a thick line on the beach. They really hurt to have to walk across to enter the water * I was very disappointed with the amount of trash floating in the shallows. Plastic bags and other unidentifiable stuff. It wasn't an exorbitant amount but it was enough to be off putting and very surprising considering other reviewers said this beach was so clean. In all this was a nice, uncrowded, pretty beach but I think we'll try to find one that is much cleaner next time. read more

Wonderful, clean beach with plenty of parking. I had the pleasure of spending this past Sunday at this beach and I truly enjoyed myself. The beach itself was very clean. Not overly crowded or rowdy. Can't wait for "Salsa on the beach" this Wednesday. Last year was a blast! read more

I love the water anytime of the year! Well, okay not when its zero below but I like this beach!!! It is always nice on a warm day to run on the lakefront! The people are friendly and I love it at night when the band is out and the people are dancing! This summer give 63rd a try!!! read more

I am a huge fan of Foster Beach, that is my go-to beach every year, but this year wanted to try something closer to home, easy to get to on my day off versus driving in all the way to the north side. So, went to 63rd St. beach on a Monday, very easy to find, 55 North to LSD South and it leaves you right at the entrance. Parking lot is small, $1 per hour parking. The sand at this beach is rocky, didn't like that at all. I like clean smooth sand, however the water was very, very clean. I am going to assume that the drought this year has reduced the water level, water level was just so low, could barely get in waist high before hitting the lifeguard in the boat. Very few people there, it did start to fill up a bit by 3 but by then I was leaving. Nice place to go if you want a quiet day at the beach, this is by far half the size of Foster. I didn't get a chance to explore the park outside of the beach, maybe I'll do that next time. Also, can't say anything about the boat house, bathrooms, etc. because I basically just sat on the beach. read more

I went on a wednesday with my family I was really reluctant because of its sixty third street location is a real urban area. I was just concern with safety at a public beach southward but I was wrong. We picked a great day not too hot and not too cold the sand was soft and not all rocky like 31st. The water was beautiful and the beach was full of familes wanting a nice peaceful time like my self . It also saw about three lifeguards that I noticed on duty calling all the shots so every one would be safe. Its was pretty clean I was able to walk shoe free but around the water egde I saw shells so I walked cautiously . I saw a couple dogs which I dont agree being in the water and near me but the owners were respectable with have kids with us so I love . We did see a crowd of peolpe in the parking lot showing their bikes and cars off but we headed home so no drama ! read more

The beach itself is nice. The downside is that there are too many people at the beach and parking was nearly impossible. The beach, the water, and the beach house were littered with trash. The toilets in the men's restroom were over flowing with waste. I would never come back to this beach. read more

A beautiful place. Always clean and quiet. Frequently stop here along my runs. However I haven't seen a water fountain or bathroom near by. read more

63rd St Beach - Early April 2014. - Beaches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

First we get some falafel, humus, mujadara, etc. etc. at Nile's in Hyde Park, and then we head out to 63rd street beach. Walking out on the pier always feels like walking out into the ocean. We go in the evening, just before sunset, walk out about half way and then sit on the ground, spread the food out and eat and watch the sunset and talk, and look at Hyde Park, the loop, South Shore, Gary, Indiana... there's hardly ever anyone out here, except for some people fishing... later we walk back inland to the drum circle. On weekend evenings there can be up to twenty drummers out here and people listen and dance, and smoke and ride their bikes there ( the best we've seen so far was a bike-radio-disco combo...)... Last week I ran to the pier just before a storm and the lake looked black and beautiful and menacing. When I went by the beach house (again, this is the Chicago Park District's!) there were people learning to dance cha cha cha in the courtyard... a moment when Chicago seemed beautiful and sad (and with a bit of atmosphere, finally) even to someone who's hated it so much... read more

Went in the summer and wont be going back. Very dirty beach is all I can say. Also saw a couple fights in the parking lot. Did not feel very safe. read more