The Ledge at Montrose Chicago Open Water Swimming

The long sandy beach at Montrose harbor is popular for every kind of beach fun in Chicago in the Summer and attracts huge crowds in nice weather. But the nearby seawall along the South side of Montrose Point “the Ledge”, can be a better destination for open water swimming for a lot of reasons: perfect skyline views, no crowds, shelter from North or NW waves that can punish most of the Chicago Lakeshore but will soften to gentle rollers at this spot. When your swim’s over enjoy an easy non-sandy water exit from the seawall ladders, a walk through the groomed Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, and (in the summer) a beer and taco from nearby institution The Dock. Check out the Great Lakes Jumper (Instagram @danielt.oc) for a lot of great pics (and jumps) often from this spot, year-round.

See more in our blog and gallery  There are no lifeguards, so bring an open water swim buoy and swim with a buddy.