5 Hidden Beaches You Need to Experience In Illinois This Summer

Summer in Illinois is calling! Where will you go, what will you see?!?

If finding a beach a little off-the-beaten-path that still delivers relaxation, beauty, and fun is something you're craving, here are 5 of Illinois' best hidden sandy paradises!

Summer Fun in Illinois

Now that Northern Illinois has gotten its first taste of 80 degrees this season, I am chomping at the bit to begin summer fun, and by that I primarily mean water and beach fun.

Wisconsin may get all the glory for lakes and beaches in this area of the country, BUT Illinois has some awesome ones to check out too!

I don't know about you, but when I go to a beach I prefer secluded over packed, and Only In Your State has a great list of some of the best "hidden" beaches to check out in Illinois this summer.

Here are 5 that aren't too far from home, including one that is right here in the Stateline area!

Best Hidden Beaches in Illinois

Leone Park Beach in Chicago, IL

At just over 2 acres, Leone Beach is one of the less populated, yet still beautiful options that Chicago has to offer. There's clear water and a pier that offers fantastic views, so if you're more into relaxation than beach sports, this is the perfect beach for you.

South Sandusky Beach on Rend Lake in Benton, IL

This beach has a large sand area your kids will love playing in and a buoyed area for safe swimming. There are also restroom and shower facilities, shaded picnic areas, and it sits next to the South Sandusky Campground.

Sunrise Beach in Lake Bluff, IL

This beach may be small, but its still mighty fun. People love Sunset Beach most for its secluded and exclusive feel, and that lifeguards are on duty every day of the season from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Rosewood Beach in Highland Park, IL

Rosewood Beach is a national award-winning beach, yet is still not terribly overcrowded each summer. It features beautiful views against wooded bluffs, a guarded swimming and recreational beach, lifeguards, concessions, and more. The water is also tested daily for bacteria, so you can feel at ease having a ton of swimming fun.

Pearl Lake Beach in South Beloit, IL

If you live in Northern Illinois, you HAVE to check out Pearl Lake and its crystal clear water! Pearl Lake has 8 acres of sandy beach to enjoy plus fishing, scuba diving, drinks, food, volleyball, music and much more.

Which Illinois beach will YOU be checking out first this summer? I think I'll be making a point to visit all 5 of them with my family!

READ MORE: The Secret Illinois Beach With Crystal Clear Water