You don't have to have a dog that loves the water - or even one that chases balls and sticks. Winnetka and North Shore dog beaches are open for all dogs that want to cool off and socialize.
My dog won't go near the water except for a little sip! Otherwise, it's just fun to run around, leash-free, and dig in the sand.
The dog beaches require pets to be up-to-date on vaccinations and there are rules that must be followed, which are outlined in the websites (listed below.)
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Along the North Shore, there are four easily accessible dog beaches.
Winnetka - Centennial Park Beach
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Located on Sheridan Road just south of Elder (Elder Beach for humans is next door.) Cost for residents is $35 for one dog and $15 for additional dogs. Non-resident fees are much higher at $170.00 for one dog. The Winnetka dog beach has a doggie shower to clean up sandy paws and fur. For more information and to complete an application, please go to: Centennial Park Beach in Winnetka
Wilmette - Gillson Park Dog Beach
Centennial Dog Beach is located at the south end of Gillson Park. Costs are slightly less than Winnetka: $26 for one resident dog, $5 for additional dogs, and 154 for non-resident dogs. Gillson Dog Beach in Wilmette
Highland Park - Moraine Park
Located at 2501 Sheridan Rd (at Moraine Road.) Moraine Park was originally the site of the Hotel Moraine, built in 1982 and closed in 1970. The 15-acre site is now a designated nature area with a portion of it fenced off for dogs. Permits are required and can be applied for at Highland Park Moraine Park Dog Beach
Evanston Dog Beach
This dog beach is located where Church Street meets the lake, just north of the launch facility. Permit fees are $60 for residents and $120 for non-residents. For more information, please see Evanston Dog Beach.
You don't need to limit yourself to summer time - the beaches can be used in the winter and it's a lot less crowded! Just avoid the ice floes and keep your dog leashed.
