2008 Chicago beach season begins

Chicago's beaches are now open for swimming, sandcastle building and more. The 2008 beach season runs Friday, May 23 to Monday, September 1. Swimming is permitted and lifeguards are on duty at all beaches from 9:00 a.m.  to 8:30 p.m. daily.

New this year is the city's beach smoking ban. Those caught smoking within 15 feet of a city beach could be fined up to $500.

A list of all Chicago beaches and lakefront parks can be found here. Information on health alerts and water quality reports issued daily can be found on the park district's swim report page.