Warm weather is approaching and it’s the perfect time of year for you and your pooch to enjoy some outdoor activities. Sure, you can always take your dog for a walk, but if your pup loves to make new friends and swim, a dog beach is picture-perfect. We’ve listed the best dog beaches for you and your best friend to have some fun in the sun. Let’s be honest, they deserve it!
Montrose Harbor Dog Beach
Photo Credit: Mondog
Montrose and Simonds Drive
Chicago, IL 60640
This free dog beach is located at the north end of Montrose Beach in Uptown. This beach is the only off-leash beach for dogs in the city, which is why we put it at the top of our list. In order to hang out at the beach, your dog needs to be healthy, immunized and vaccinated. You’ll have to clean up after your pup afterwards and you must have them on a leash to and from the beach. You must also carry a Chicago Park District DFA permit and tag (issued by a vet) to prove that your best friend is up to date on vaccinations. Yes, it sounds like a lot, but these are all precautions to make sure your dog and others are 100% safe. The beach is open all year-round during park district hours.
Belmont Harbor Dog Beach
Photo Credit: Hygge & Wool
3500 North Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60657
This beach is a lot smaller than Montrose Beach and can get pretty crowded. If your dog loves to swim, keep a watchful eye and make sure your dog doesn’t go near the boats that frequent on the water. Parking is $10 on Sundays and the beach is free. This beach doesn’t have a cleanup area so bring a towel to clean up your pooch so he doesn’t ruin your backseat!
Foster Avenue Dog Beach
5200 North Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60640
Foster Avenue is another small dog beach, great for keeping an eye out for your dog. This beach is known for getting a little crowded in the afternoons, so early mornings are a good time to avoid the heavy crowds. There’s even a DIY Dog wash nearby just in case your dog gets a little messy.
Evanston Dog Beach
1631 Sheridan Road
Evanston, IL, 60202
Evanston Dog Beach is located between Clark Street Beach and the Church Street Boat Ramp. This is a beautiful beach, but make sure to keep your pup off of the rocks. This beach is for members only. In order to get a pass, which costs $60 for residents and $120 for non-residents (prices drop August 1), you’ll need to show proof of immunizations and your pet’s license. For more information on how to obtain a pass for your pooch, visit the City of Evanston’s website.
Sunrise Park and Beach
455 Sunrise Drive
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Okay, it’s not Chicago, but it’s an awesome beach that’s not far away. In order to reach this relaxing beach, you’ll have to walk down a long wooden staircase. The beach is free to use for dogs that are registered in Lake Bluff, but non-residents need to purchase a $65 pass for themselves and a $150 pass for their dog. Owners will also need to show proof of their dog’s vaccination. The beaches are very well kept and there were about 400 dogs registered last year. Perfect if your buddy loves making new friends!
Gillson Dog Beach
Photo Credit: North Shore Views
800 Gillson Park Drive
Wilmette, IL 60091
Located at the south end of Gillson Park, this dog beach provides a very popular off-leash adventure. Dogs are required to get a tag, and to enter, residents pay $25 and non-residents pay $150 for a tag. Tags are sold at Wilmette Village Hall (1200 Wilmette Ave). Hours at the beach are very specific:
May 27 – June 11: 6am – 10:30pm
June 12 – August 11: Monday – Friday, 6am – 10am & 3:30pm – 10:30pm, Saturday & Sunday, 6am – 9:30pm
August 12, 2017 – June 10, 2018: 6am – 10:30pm
Featured Image Credit: 7 Themes
