10 Best Beach Clubs Chicago (2024)

Chicago is a city that truly has it all – towering skyscrapers, world-renowned cuisine, and stunning beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan. Those looking to enjoy the lakefront scenery and soak up the sun will love Chicago’s beach clubs.

Whether you’re searching for a family-friendly spot or a lively party atmosphere, the city’s beach clubs offer something for everyone. From rooftop pools to sandy shores, we list the 10 best Beach Clubs Chicago for 2024. Our guide to the best beach clubs in the Windy City will help you hit the beach in style.

Top Categories of Beach Clubs in Chicago Overview:

Chicago is known for having a diverse selection of beach clubs that cater to the tastes and preferences of people from all walks of life. To help you navigate this vibrant scene, we’ve grouped the city’s beach clubs into the following main categories:

1. Beach Clubs in Chicago for Families:

The Dock at Montrose Beach is a famous family-friendly beach club on the North Side of Chicago. It offers various amenities, including a playground, a picnic area, and a large sandy beach perfect for building sandcastles. (number 2 on the list below)

2. Beach Clubs in Chicago to Party:

If you’re looking for a gold coast beach club with a lively party atmosphere, look no further than the Shore Club. Located in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago, Shore Club offers a rooftop pool, multiple bars, and DJs spinning tunes throughout the day and night. (number 1 on the list below)

3. Beach Clubs in Chicago on a Budget:

No Bones Beach Club offers a budget-friendly option for beachgoers in Chicago. This vegan beach club in the Uptown neighborhood offers affordable food and drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. (number 3 on the list below)

4. Luxury Beach Clubs in Chicago:

Those looking for an experience of luxury beach club living will find Castaways Beach Club the perfect destination. Located on North Avenue Beach, Castaways offers cabana rentals, VIP seating areas, and a menu of upscale food and drinks. (number 4 on the list below)

5. Beach Clubs in Chicago for Couples & Honeymoons:

Caffe Oliva Beach Club is a romantic spot located on Ohio Street Beach. It features an extensive wine list, a menu of Italian-inspired menu items, and a stunning view of the Chicago skyline from the restaurant. If you are looking for an ideal place for a romantic date or for a honeymoon, this is the perfect place. (number 9 on the list below)

Chicago Quick Guide:

When visiting Chicago, there are two important things to consider – where to stay and how to get around. To make the most of your trip to the Windy City, here is a quick guide that should help you make the most of your time there.

Stay in Chicago:

It is a great city for travelers looking to stay in a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel. Stay at the iconic Palmer House Hilton, or you may prefer to stay at:

• The Allegro Royal Sonesta Hotel Chicago Loop
• Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile Medical
• EDGEBROOK MOTEL
• Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago
• The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown

Getting Around Chicago:

Chicago has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). Plenty of top attractions in the city are within walking distance of one another, so getting around the city is very easy and convenient.

Car Rental:

If you prefer to drive, car rentals are widely available in the city, with Discover Cars being a reliable option.

Bike Bookings:

Another great way to get around Chicago is by bike. Bike rentals and bike tours are widely available, with companies like Bike Bookings offering affordable rentals and guided tours of the city.

Tours:

It is highly recommended that you take a guided tour of Chicago to make the most of your time there. Several reputable tour companies offer tours to a wide range of interests, including food and drink tours and architectural tours, such as Viator and Get Your Guide.

• Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise
• Chicago: 360 Chicago Observation Deck Skip-the-Line Ticket
• Chicago: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour
• Chicago: CityPASS® Save 48% or More on 5 Top Attractions
• Chicago: Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge Ticket

What are the best beach clubs in Chicago?

A number of the top beach clubs in the country can be found in Chicago, offering a variety of amenities and experiences for beachgoers of all ages. Here are the top 10 best Chicago Beach Clubs for 2024:

1. Shore Club Chicago
2. The Dock at Montrose Beach
3. No Bones Beach Club
4. Castaways Beach Club
5. Reggies on the Beach
6. The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash
7. Oak Street Beach Restaurant
8. Whispers at Oak Street Beach
9. Caffe Oliva Beach Club
10. The Lakefront Restaurant at Theater on the Lake

1. Shore Club Chicago

Located on the picturesque North Lake Shore Drive, Shore Club is one of Chicago’s most luxurious beach clubs. This beach club offers a private oasis for its members and guests with a range of amenities, including beachfront cabanas, sun loungers, and daybeds.

The club boasts a stunning infinity pool overlooking Lake Michigan, a full-service bar, and a restaurant serving delicious cuisine. Shore Club is a popular spot for daytime and nighttime events with panoramic views of the lake and the city skyline.

The club also offers a variety of activities, such as beach volleyball and yoga, making it an ideal spot for those looking for an active day at the beach. Several services are offered at Shore Club that ensure the visitors have an enjoyable and comfortable stay.

Address: 1603 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60610, United States

Phone: +1 312-635-8058

Website: https://www.shoreclubchi.com/

2. The Dock at Montrose Beach

This beach club is one of the best beach clubs in Chicago and is located at 200 W Montrose Harbor Dr, Chicago, IL 60640, United States of America. This beach club is known for its stunning views of Lake Michigan and its lively atmosphere.

The Dock at Montrose Beach offers visitors a wide range of amenities and activities, including a beach bar, live music performances, yoga classes, and volleyball courts. This beach club is also family-friendly, with a designated play area for children.

Visitors can enjoy various food and drink options at the beach club’s bar and grill, which serves everything from classic burgers to fresh seafood.

Address: 200 W Montrose Harbor Dr, Chicago, IL 60640, United States

Phone: +1 773-704–8435

Website: https://www.thedockatmontrosebeach.com/

Email: info@the–dock.net

3. No Bones Beach Club

No Bones Beach Club is a famous beach club located in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. This unique beach club offers a vegan twist on traditional beachside fare, with an all-vegan menu that includes dishes such as “beachy bowls” and “tiki tacos.”

The beach club also boasts a full bar with an extensive list of tropical cocktails and mocktails. No Bones Beach Club’s colorful and vibrant decor, neon signs, and tiki-inspired accents create a fun and lively atmosphere.

Address: 1943 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Website: https://nobonesbeachclub.com/

Email: munchies@nobonesbeachclub.com

4. Castaways Beach Club

In the heart of Chicago, on North Avenue Beach, there is a beach club known as Castaways Beach Club, one of Chicago’s most famous. Castaways’ This beach club is known for its vibrant atmosphere and fun events, making it a go-to spot for locals and tourists.

Castaways features a full-service bar and restaurant, offering various food and drink options while soaking up the sun. The beach club also offers beach volleyball courts, cabana rentals, and a rooftop deck with stunning views.

Castaways are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and are must-visit destinations for anyone looking for a fun and lively beach experience in Chicago.

Address: 1603 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Phone: +1 773-281-1200

Website: https://www.castawayschicago.com/

5. Reggies on the Beach

Reggies on the Beach is a popular beach club at 6259 S Lake Shore Dr in Chicago. Taking advantage of its beachfront location and lively atmosphere, the club offers a unique experience for visitors. The beach club is owned by the same team behind the popular music venue Reggies, located in the city’s South Loop neighborhood.

The beach club features a full bar, restaurant, beach volleyball courts, and other beach games. There are also a number of beach equipment rentals available at the beach for visitors to enjoy their day on the sand to the fullest.

With its prime location on the lakefront and fun atmosphere, Reggies on the Beach is a great spot to spend a summer day in Chicago.

Address: 6259 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60649, United States

Website: https://www.reggieslive.com/beach/

6. The Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash

A unique beach club, Three Dots and a Dash at 435 N Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60654, is home to the Bamboo Room at Three Dots and a Dash. This tiki-inspired bar is known for its creative cocktails and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for lounging on the beach.

The club’s decor features bamboo accents, palm fronds, and other tropical elements that transport guests to a far-off island paradise. In addition to its impressive drink menu, the Bamboo Room also offers a small selection of Polynesian-inspired small plates.

Guests can enjoy their food and drinks in the club’s intimate indoor space or on the outdoor patio, which is perfect for soaking up the sun.

Address: 435 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654

Phone: +1 (312) 610-4220

Website: https://www.threedotschicago.com/thebambooroom/

7.  Oak Street Beach Restaurant

Oak Street Beach Restaurant is a famous beach club at 1000 N Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, Illinois. Beach clubs such as this one are popular among tourists and locals alike, as they offer stunning views of Lake Michigan and the skyline of Chicago.

As a breakfast, lunch, or dinner option, you can find a variety of dishes in the club, from light salads to hearty sandwiches, hamburgers, and light drinks. A variety of refreshing drinks are available at the bar, including beer, wine, and cocktails that will keep you refreshed.

Oak Street Beach Restaurant also offers beach rentals such as chairs and umbrellas, making it a great place to spend a relaxing day by the water.

Address: 1000 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Phone: +1 773-363-2225

Website: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/oak-street-beach/

8. Whispers at Oak Street Beach

As one of the premier beach clubs in Chicago, Whispers at Oak Street Beach offers a unique and luxurious experience at 1001 N Lake Shore Drive. The club boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, making it an ideal destination for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of the Chicago waterfront.

Whispers focus on creating an exclusive atmosphere, offering a range of amenities and services, including private cabanas, VIP seating, bottle service, and a full-service bar. There are a variety of events going on at the club throughout the summer, including live music performances and special theme parties that are held throughout the summer.

Address: 1001 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Phone: +1 312-522-0358

Website: https://www.whispersgroup.com/

Email: jalia@whispersgroup.com

9. Caffe Oliva Beach Club

Located in Streeterville, Caffe Oliva Beach Club is a hidden gem tucked away on the shores of Lake Michigan. An ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, this beach club offers a relaxing and intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax after a long day at work.

With its picturesque setting and stunning lakefront views, Caffe Oliva Beach Club provides an ideal backdrop for a romantic date or a chill afternoon with friends. The beach club features comfortable lounge chairs, umbrellas for rent, and beach volleyball courts for those who want to get active.

Guests can enjoy delicious food and drinks from the on-site cafe, including fresh salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. If you plan your next visit to Korea, don’t forget to check out these cafes in Korea. Caffe Oliva Beach Club is open daily during the summer and can be accessed through Ohio Street Beach.

Address: 550 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

Phone: +1 (312) 612-0734

Website: http://www.caffeoliva.com/

10. The Lakefront Restaurant at Theater on the Lake

The Lakefront Restaurant at Theater on the Lake is one of the best beach clubs in Chicago. Situated at 2401 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, this beach club offers a serene ambiance with stunning views of Lake Michigan. With its modern décor, this restaurant presents a sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a romantic date or a family gathering.

The Lakefront Restaurant serves American cuisine, and guests can enjoy their meals while taking in the panoramic views of the lake. Moreover, the beach club offers an excellent selection of wines and cocktails, making it an ideal spot to unwind and relax.

Address: 2401 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

Phone: +1 (312) 414-1313

Website: https://theateronthelake.com/

Things to do in Chicago

Chicago is a bustling city full of culture, history, and entertainment. From world-renowned museums to stunning architecture, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Windy City. Here are some of the top attractions and activities to check out during your visit to Chicago.

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

As one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago has been around for centuries. The museum consists of a large collection of artwork from all over the world, such as paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

A number of important works are on display at the museum, including those by Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Grant Wood.

Explore Millennium Park

Downtown Chicago’s Millennium Park covers an area of 25 acres. Its attractions include the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, “The Bean.” The park also features gardens, an outdoor concert venue, and a skating rink during the winter months.

Make sure to keep your best backpack for theme parks ready on your next visit.

Take an Architecture Boat Tour

Chicago is known for its stunning architecture, and there’s no better way to see it than on an architecture boat tour. Chicago River tours take you along the Chicago River, where you can see the Willis and Tribune Towers, among other famous buildings.

Visit Navy Pier

A popular tourist destination, Navy Pier is also a popular destination for locals. This amusement park features restaurants, shops, and a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan. Be sure to ride the Ferris wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the city.

See a Show at the Chicago Theatre

Live entertainment is one of the most iconic aspects of the Chicago Theatre. It hosts a variety of shows, including concerts, comedy acts, and Broadway productions.

Shop on the Magnificent Mile

High-end shopping and dining can be found along Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile. It’s home to various luxury retailers, including Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as popular restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory and The Purple Pig.

Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

All science enthusiasts should visit the Museum of Science and Industry. It features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, including a replica coal mine and a full-sized U-505 submarine.

Stroll through Lincoln Park

Chicago’s Lincoln Park covers 1,200 acres. Its attractions include the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Lincoln Park Conservatory. The park also features walking trails and beautiful gardens, making it a great spot for a stroll.

Catch a Game at Wrigley Field

One of the oldest ballparks in the country, Wrigley Field is the iconic home of the Chicago Cubs. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, visiting Wrigley Field is a must for its historic charm and lively atmosphere.

Take a Walk along the Lakefront Trail

The 18-mile Lakefront Trail offers spectacular views of the Chicago skyline along Lake Michigan’s shores. The path passes several of Chicago’s most popular beaches and is popular for walking, running, and bicycling.

You’ll find something you love in Chicago, regardless of whether you’re into art, architecture, or outdoor recreation. On your visit to the Windy City, take advantage of these top attractions and activities.

Chicago Travel Essentials:

When planning a trip to Chicago, it’s important to consider some key travel essentials to help you make the most of your time in the city. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

Flights & Hotels Accommodation:

When planning your trip to Chicago, it’s important to consider your flights and hotel accommodation. WayAway and Booking.com are two popular websites offering a wide range of options for flights and hotels, allowing you to find the best deals and opportunities for your budget and preferences.

Airport & Hotel Transfers:

Navigating a new city can be challenging, especially if you must become more familiar with the area. To make your trip to Chicago as stress-free as possible, consider using Kwik Taxi for airport and hotel transfers. Getting around town is convenient and reliable with this service.

Rental Services:

Consider renting a car to explore Chicago at your own pace. Discover Cars is a popular rental service allowing you to find the best deals in Chicago. This is especially helpful if you plan a day trip outside the city.

Attractions, Museums & Shows:

Chicago is home to various attractions, museums, and shows; planning ahead is important to ensure you make the most of your time. Tiqets and TripAdvisor are two websites that offer ticket bookings for popular attractions, museums, and shows, allowing you to skip the lines and save time.

Activities:

Chicago has countless activities, from sightseeing to food tours to outdoor adventures. Viator and Get Your Guide are two websites that offer a range of activities and tours in Chicago, allowing you to find the perfect activity to suit your interests and preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicago’s beach clubs offer various experiences for those looking to enjoy the city’s beautiful lakefront. Whether you’re searching for a family-friendly spot or a lively party atmosphere, the city’s beach clubs have something for everyone.

Each club has unique charm and amenities, from the rooftop pools of the Shore Club and The Gwen Hotel to the sandy shores of Montrose Beach and Oak Street Beach. Other great options include Castaways Beach Club, The Dock at Montrose Beach, and Whispers at Oak Street Beach.

So, pack your beach bag, grab the sunscreen, and head to one of these top 10 best beach clubs in Chicago for an unforgettable day by the lake.