Chicago’s beaches are open for the season

Beach season has officially arrived in Chicago!

While we’re still weeks away from decent swimming conditions – the water temperature is in the 50s – beachgoers can at least dip their toes into Lake Michigan while hearty swimmers can safely take the plunge with lifeguards on duty from 11 AM until 7 PM daily.

The city’s official beach season runs from May 24 through September 2. This is the period when lifeguards are on duty.

#ChiSwimReport 05/30/19: All beaches are open for swimming from 11 am to 7 pm with no restrictions based on water quality. Swim advisories may be implemented by lifeguards. Check the flag color at the beach before swimming or visit https://t.co/9U1kEP8zmh . Water Temp.: 50-54°F. pic.twitter.com/maO5njVZo2

— Chicago ParkDistrict (@ChicagoParks) May 30, 2019

The Chicago Park District manages 26 miles of lakefront from the Indiana border to Rogers Park. The parks and beaches along the lakefront are all free and open to the public – both Chicago residents and out-of-town visitors.

If you plan on making a trip to the beach, you should know that the Park District updates surf conditions and water quality daily on their website. During beach season, the Chicago Park District tests the water for bacteria levels seven days a week.

You can find out information on the city’s various beaches, including water conditions, at chicagoparkdistrict.com/beaches.