A Guide to the Best Beaches in Wilmette
Located along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Michigan, Wilmette boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Midwest. I always say they look just like the ocean! It’s one of the top reasons why we moved here.
From sandy stretches to peaceful coves, the beaches of Wilmette provide a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this guide, I’ll share the best beaches in Wilmette and provide you with tips for making the most of your visit.
A Guide to the Best Beaches in Wilmette
Exploring Wilmette's Beautiful Coastline
Wilmette's 4.75 miles of shoreline offer endless possibilities for relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take a dip in the cool waters of Lake Michigan, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family, Wilmette's beaches have something for everyone.
There are three primary beaches in Wilmette, each with its unique features and amenities. These beaches include Gillson Park Beach, Langdon Beach, and Centennial Park Beach. One of my go-to realtors, Laura Fitzpatrick, has a great guide to explore the area.
A Brief Introduction to Wilmette's Beaches
Gillson Park Beach is the largest of the three beaches, covering over 60 acres. Located on Sheridan Road, it features a stunning view of the lake and is the most popular beach in Wilmette. In addition to swimming, visitors can also enjoy a variety of recreational activities at Gillson Park, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and volleyball.
Langdon Beach, located just south of Gillson Park Beach, boasts quiet serenity and spectacular sunsets, making it a great spot for a romantic walk or picnic. With its soft sand and clear water, Langdon Beach is also a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Centennial Park Beach is a hidden gem located at the southern end of the town and offers the perfect escape from the crowds. This secluded beach is a great spot for fishing, birdwatching, and hiking. Visitors can also take advantage of the park's picnic areas and playgrounds.
Gillson Park Beach
Gillson Park Beach is a must-visit for anyone coming to Wilmette. With over half a mile of sandy beach, there's plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the lakefront views. Gillson Park Beach also offers a wide array of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy.
As you walk along the beach, you'll be able to take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan. The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, and the sandy beach is ideal for building sandcastles or simply lounging in the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake from a different perspective.
Activities and Amenities at Gillson Park Beach
One of the highlights of Gillson Park Beach is the playground, which is perfect for families with young children. The playground features swings, slides, and climbing structures, providing hours of entertainment for kids of all ages.
If you're feeling hungry, be sure to stop by the snack bar. The snack bar offers a variety of delicious treats, including ice cream, hot dogs, and nachos. There are also numerous picnic areas available, making it the perfect spot for a family outing. You can pack a lunch and enjoy it while taking in the beautiful lakefront views.
Lifeguards are on duty during swimming hours, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the water safely. The beach also has restrooms and showers available, making it easy to rinse off after a swim.
Tips for Visiting Gillson Park Beach
Gillson Park Beach can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so it's best to arrive early to secure a good spot. Parking can be limited, so be prepared to walk a bit if the lot is full. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting on weeknights or early in the morning.
If you're looking for a unique experience, consider taking a yoga class on the beach. The classes are held in the early morning and provide a peaceful way to start your day. The calming sound of the waves and the fresh lake air make for the perfect yoga setting.
Overall, Gillson Park Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone in the Wilmette area. With its stunning views, wide array of activities, and family-friendly amenities, it's the perfect place to spend a day in the sun.
Langdon Beach
If you're looking for a less crowded spot to relax and enjoy the lake, Langdon Beach is the perfect choice. Tucked away off Sheridan Road, Langdon Beach is quiet and peaceful, with stunning views of the lake.
Langdon Beach is a hidden gem that not many people know about. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and quiet. The beach is surrounded by lush green trees, providing a serene and calming atmosphere. The sound of the waves gently crashing against the shore is the only thing you'll hear, making it the perfect spot to unwind and de-stress.
What Makes Langdon Beach Unique
What makes Langdon Beach unique is not just its secluded location but also the fact that it's a great spot to watch the sunset. As the sun sets over the lake, the sky turns into a beautiful shade of orange and pink, creating a picturesque view that you'll never forget. The beach is also a popular spot for birdwatchers, as you'll be able to spot a variety of birds that call the area home.
If you're lucky, you might even spot a bald eagle soaring over the lake. The area around the beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and raccoons. It's a great place to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the outdoors.
Planning Your Trip to Langdon Beach
Langdon Beach is a bit harder to find than Gillson Park Beach, but it's worth the effort. From Sheridan Road, head towards Linden Avenue and look for the signs directing you towards the beach. Once you arrive, you'll find that the beach is relatively small, but that only adds to its charm.
Since there are no lifeguards at Langdon Beach, it's important to take caution when swimming. The water can be deep in some areas, so it's best to stay close to shore. Additionally, be prepared to bring your own food and drinks, as there are no amenities on-site. You might want to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on one of the many picnic tables available.
Overall, Langdon Beach is a great spot to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset or a quiet place to read a book, Langdon Beach has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and head to Langdon Beach for a day of fun in the sun!
Centennial Park Beach
Located at the southern end of Wilmette, Centennial Park Beach is a hidden gem that's worth discovering. This small beach offers an escape from the crowds and a chance to enjoy the lake in peace.
As you make your way to Centennial Park Beach, take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. The beach is situated in a quaint neighborhood, and the peaceful atmosphere is immediately noticeable. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore.
Features of Centennial Park Beach
Centennial Park Beach offers a small stretch of sand and some excellent views of Lake Michigan. What makes this beach special is the fact that it's rarely crowded, offering visitors a peaceful and quiet experience. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing with a good book. Additionally, the beach is adjacent to Centennial Park, which features a playground, picnic area, and tennis courts.
Take a stroll through Centennial Park and enjoy the lush greenery and well-manicured landscaping. The playground is perfect for families with children, and the picnic area is a great spot to enjoy a meal with a view. If you're feeling active, hit up the tennis courts for a game with friends or family.
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How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Centennial Park Beach
Centennial Park Beach is a bit off the beaten path, but it's worth the trip. To get there, head south on Sheridan Road and turn left onto Isabella Street. Then follow the signs directing you to the park. Once you arrive, take your time exploring the area and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.
While there are no lifeguards at Centennial Park Beach, the water is generally calm and safe for swimming. However, it's always important to exercise caution when swimming in open water. Additionally, be sure to bring everything you need for your visit, as there are no amenities on-site. Pack a picnic lunch, bring plenty of water, and don't forget the sunscreen!
Overall, Centennial Park Beach is a hidden gem that's well worth a visit. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a fun day out with the family, this beach has something for everyone.
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Wilmette
If you're a dog owner looking for a beach to enjoy with your furry friend, Wilmette has you covered. There are two dog-friendly beaches in Wilmette, each with their own unique features and amenities.
Beach Etiquette for Dog Owners
Before visiting a dog-friendly beach, it's important to review beach etiquette for dog owners. This can include bringing waste bags, keeping dogs on a leash, and respecting other beachgoers. By doing your part to be a responsible pet owner, you're ensuring that these beaches remain accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Attractions
Aside from the beaches, Wilmette has several other dog-friendly attractions worth checking out. These include the Wilmette Dog Park and the Green Bay Trail, which offers a scenic route for walkers and joggers.
With its wealth of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Wilmette is a true gem of Lake Michigan. Whether you're looking to spend a fun-filled day in the sun or simply relax and enjoy the view, Wilmette's beaches have something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen and head to Wilmette to experience its magnificent coastline for yourself!
After a beach day, I always recommend a bite at Pescadero -- their patio is amazing!
Wilmette Weather
Granted, it’s Chicago, so it does get cold. However, the weather in Wilmette for going to the beach is great 9 months out of the year in my opinion. We love to run around on the beach with our jackets on in the spring and fall. Beach weather for our family is typically March through November.
Obviously, it’s wonderful in the summer because whether you’re at the swimming beach or coming from the park district pool at Centennial, it’s a great time.
Beach dinners are one of our favorite activities that I highly recommend. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to DM me on Instagram or reach out via my contact page!
