Wilmette Park District Brings Safe Swimming to Gillson’s South Beach

4/9/24 – Wilmette Park District Brings Safe Swimming to Gillson’s South Beach

For the first time in Gillson Park’s history, South Beach will be open for swimming. Lifeguards will be on station this summer to oversee this popular beach’s brand-new, fee-based swim area.

Due to safety concerns, South Beach had been a no-swim zone and visitors often voiced their disappointment. But Lakefront Manager Megan White and her team worked during the off-season to address the concerns and bring a new swim opportunity to the community. They will add lifeguards, a slatted dune fence with multiple access points and additional support staff to ensure the safety of all visitors.

“We’re so happy to move forward and implement these additions to enhance the South Beach experience for our guests,” said White. “We hope our South Beach fans will enjoy the new place to swim, stroll and play in the sun.”

Swimming opens Memorial Day weekend. The entrance fee is $5 for Wilmette residents and $10 for non-residents via credit card only at the entrances.

While there were numerous reported violations at South Beach last year, including several that required police intervention, Executive Director Steve Wilson expects the additional staff and operational changes to deter the disruptive behavior.

“South Beach has long been a treasured part of Gillson Park, and we believe these adjustments will provide an improved beach experience for our residents, which naturally includes taking a swim in the lake.”

People will still be able to walk along the shoreline and those with trail-in permits can continue launching kayaks and SUPs north and south of the designated swim area.