2025 South Beach Operations Announcement

The Wilmette Park District is excited to share our 2025 Lakefront Operations Plans, shaped by valuable feedback from our community, data collected throughout the year, and insights from our dedicated Lakefront Staff and the Board of Park Commissioners. These updates reflect our commitment to enhancing accessibility, affordability, and overall experience at our beloved lakefront. We appreciate the community’s engagement and look forward to implementing these changes to serve all our lakefront visitors.

Planning a visit to Gillson Park? We’ve put together an FAQ to help answer common questions about access, fees, amenities, and conservation efforts so you can make the most of your experience. Click the link above to learn what you need to know before heading to the lakefront!

Official Plan Overview

1. Operational Hours & Beach Access

• All Wilmette beaches (Main Beach, South Beach, and Langdon Beach) will operate from 10 AM to 8 PM to align with other North Shore beaches and allow for expanded staff presence.
  Accessibility:
  • ADA-accessible entrances with beach matting will be installed at Gillson Entrances #1, #2, and #3.
  • Beach wheelchairs will be available at Entrances #1 and #4.

2. Cost-Sensitive & Effective Pricing

• Beach access fees for Main, South, and Langdon beaches remain the same as 2024.
• Group pricing is available for parties of 15 or more with advanced registration.
• Non-residents visiting with a resident will be charged the resident rate.
• Children aged two and under may enter for free.
• Exploring additional pricing options, including:
  • Discount days and special rates
  • Library-based passes

3. Lakefront Boundaries & Benches

Beach Fence:

• • Seasonal wooden slat fencing will be placed primarily along the beachside to guide beachgoers to exit points and assist in protecting the dunes.
  • Fencing will be placed strategically to maximize access to shaded natural areas.

Posts and Rope Dune Boundaries:

• • Non-permanent posts and rope boundaries (4” x 4” cedar posts, spaced 8’ apart, with a single rope) will prevent foot traffic through the dunes except on designated paths.
  • Designed to blend naturally with the landscape.
  • Informational signage will be installed.

Beach Access Enhancements:

• • Access points widened for unobstructed views.
  • Five new benches will be installed within beach entries.
  • Regular evaluations will determine long-term usage needs.

4. The Cove & Dog Beach

Beach Sectioning:

• • The southernmost section of Gillson Lakefront (between the jetties) will be divided into two zones:

1. 1. 1. The Dog Beach – Designated area for permitted off-leash dogs. (Must be a Pass Holder to Access)
      2. The Cove – A No Swimming beach dedicated to non-motorized watercraft access with a Trail-In Permit.
         • Free entry to The Cove with monitored access and adherence to rules.
           

Watercraft & Storage:

• • Relocation of trail-in watercraft launches (SUPs & kayaks) to The Cove.
  • 30 new SUP storage racks will be available for rental via Sailing Beach SUP waitlist.
  • Users must follow all US Coast Guard regulations including wearing a USCG-approved flotation device.

Staffing:

• • Two beach staff members will be present at The Cove during operational hours.

5. Communication and Customer Service

• Improving signage, social media, and WPD communications to make planning beach visits easier.
• Scheduled training and in-services for all staff to provide consistent and updated operational support.

Looking Ahead

To continue to stay updated on South Beach Operations Plans, visit our Project Page for the most up-to-date information. We’re committed to making South Beach a safe, beautiful, and enjoyable destination for everyone.

We can’t wait to see you at the beach in 2025! If you have questions or feedback, contact us.