Playa Hollywood

Based on the other reviews, this does not feel SAPPHIC/LESBIAN friendly and welcoming. Even though it's a GAY beach. Also, there is a review here that refers to lgbt as glbt (misogyny btw). So if you are not a gay man, I guess that you should avoid or proceed with caution. Like just look at the pictures. I wanted to go but now I don't feel safe which is very heartbreaking.

Very nice during summer, and you can wade a really long distance.

Love coming to this beach

Nice place for a walk along the lakefront.

Hollywood Beach has always been it's real name! However, the official beach house name is Katherine Osterman Beach House, known as the only cabana gay beach bar in the Midwest. This beach is the official and only gay beach in Chicago, located at the farthest point of Lincoln Park in the Edge Water Beach district, along the west shore of Lake Michigan, 8 miles north of Buckinham Fountain. Area air B&Bs are GBTL friendly, offering views of the lake, and only steps to the beach. This beach is famous for it's bluest waves, no pun intended, it's long, wide sandy beach facing north, and the celebratory pride lighthouse on the pier at it's eastern end, iconic to this gay beach distination that draws draws guys from all over the world. It's the most international, cruisiest banana-hamock beach outside of Rio de Janiro. It's definately where the boys all go! Sorry girls, but you have those other guys at North Avenue Beach. It's always featured as "Edge Water Beach" on Channel 9 News weather since they have installed a camera overlooking the beach. Although, the right wing TV station owner seems homophobic not to call it for what it really is. Who can trust the media any longer anyhow?

This beach is known as the “Hollywood Beach” aka the gay beach. It’s a fun even as a straight woman. A place to bring your friends and have fun with strangers. The energy is high and nice people. NO KIDS!!!!

Love this beach such a fun vibe with great edm music

Very nice place, good for families.

Once the lifeguards leave. Dogs on the beach.

I have been walking my dog here for 10 YEARS. This week, was on sand and we walked over towards a path going up to the park. About 20 feet up the path, 1 man was down on his knees, and another standing right in front of him with his pants pulled down. There were 3 other naked men standing within a few feet of these 2 , either watching the action, or joining in. This was on a wednesday, at 10 AM daylight. I was so shocked and disgusted by this. What the heck is wrong with people ? I will never go back there. What a disappointment.

Cruisy beach lol

Kathy Osterman Beach is truly a hidden gem along the Chicago lakefront. Compared to some of the larger, busier beaches in the city, this one feels more relaxed and family-friendly. The sand is soft and well-kept, and the water is usually clean and clear, making it perfect for swimming or simply lounging on a summer day. What I really enjoyed was the peaceful atmosphere — it’s less crowded than North Avenue or Oak Street Beach, which makes it ideal if you want to enjoy the lake without too much noise or chaos. The area also has walking and biking paths nearby, so it’s easy to combine a beach day with a scenic stroll or ride along the lakefront. The facilities are convenient too, with lifeguards on duty, restrooms, and snack stands during the season. It’s also accessible by public transportation, which is a big plus. Overall, Kathy Osterman Beach is a great spot if you’re looking for a clean, relaxing, and welcoming beach in Chicago.