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Lake Michigan's Best Dog Beaches

Pet-Friendly Beaches within 200 miles of Chicago

© Katie Fanuko

There's nothing like spending the last few weeks of summer soaking up the sun at the beach, but dog owners shouldn't feel that they have to leave their pet at home.

There are plenty of pet-friendly beaches in the Midwest where Fido is more than welcome. Here are some of the best dog beaches along southern Lake Michigan.

Montrose Harbor Beach

Montrose Harbor is a picturesque beach that stretches along Chicago’s North Side and offers a spectacular view of the city’s skyline and lakefront. Dogs are allowed at the Susan Kimmelman Dog Beach located at the north end of the beach. Although canines can roam the beach sans leash, the beach requires pet owners to have a permit and a tag for all dogs. Both locals and visitors need to apply for a dog permit, which can be done at participating veterinary offices. The permit fee is $50 and is good for the entire summer season.

4400 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Belmont Harbor

Located south of Montrose Beach, Belmont Harbor is one of Chicago’s unofficial dog beaches. Technically Belmont Harbor is not a beach, it’s simply a stretch of sand along the lake that has been fenced off. Even though the city is relatively lax about allowing pets at the harbor, make sure to keep a leash handy because pet owners could get ticketed if their dog is running around without one.

3200 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Mount Baldy Beach

The Indiana Dunes are an amazing natural wonder that encompass 18 miles along the southern tip of lake Michigan. There are eight beaches that stretch from Gary to Michigan City. One of the most popular beaches, Mount Baldy is a great place to relax by the water or hike up the surrounding dunes. The beach allows pets throughout the summer season and a permit is not required. Admission is free but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.

U.S. Highway 12, Michigan City, Indiana

Lake View Beach

Another dog-friendly beach along the Indiana Dunes is Lake View Beach. This beach tends to be less crowded than Mount Baldy, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Pet owners can take a dip with their pet or relax on the shore. There’s also plenty of room to play Frisbee or take a take a jog. Again there is no permit necessary and admission is free.

Lake Front Drive and Broadway St., Bverly Shores, Indiana

Grand Haven City Beach

Not only is Grand Haven is one of western Michigan’s most beautiful cities, it’s pristine beaches are also dog-friendly. The Grand Haven City Beach allows dogs on the beach accept when the swimming buoys are out, then dogs are permitted on the south end of the beach. Admission is free.

Harbor Drive, Grand Haven, Michigan

Norman F. Kruse Park

In nearby Muskegon, Norman F. Kruse Park is another option for those with four legged friends. A dog beach is located at the north end of the park where pets can roam the beach and near by sand dunes leash-free. The park also has plenty of tables set up which are perfect for a family picnic. The park is also equipped with nature trails and basketball courts. Admission is free and the park is open from 5:30 am to 11:00 pm.

Sherman and Beach Street, Muskegon, Michigan


The copyright of the article Lake Michigan's Best Dog Beaches in Illinois Travel is owned by Katie Fanuko. Permission to republish Lake Michigan's Best Dog Beaches in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.





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