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Hollywood Beach - A hidden gay gem
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Did you know there's a gay beach right here in heart of Chicago? There most definitely is; it's sort of that hidden gem in the city because it's not the easiest beach to get to and because of that it's one of the best beaches. Hollywood Beach is primarily a neighborhood beach because of its remote location.
Kathy Osterman Beach, better known as Hollywood Beach, is a little off the beaten path and takes a little effort to get to. Hollywood Beach is at the north terminus of Lakeshore Drive (thus the Hollywood part) but it doesn't have a public parking lot like most of the other beaches, which makes getting there a little more difficult.
Although once you know the secrets of getting there, you'll want to go every week. Osterman Beach is a huge expanse of beach that is divided into three "smaller" sections, the northernmost and middle part of the beach is primarily straight with adults and families, but the southern end of the beach, closest to the pier, is predominantly gay with all sorts of eye candy to look at.
So how do you get to Hollywood Beach?
Well don't jump in your car. Edgewater is one of the most densely populated neighborhoods in the city and it's near impossible to find a parking spot in the neighborhood. If you do drive you'll probably end up walking further than if you had just left it at home. The closest Park District Parking lot is at Foster & Lakeshore Drive, a hefty four blocks south of Hollywood Beach. There is an easy way to get there though: the CTA.
If you're taking the bus, the most direct routes you can take are the 147, 151 or 36 and get off at Ardmore. You can see the lake from where you get off the bus, so just walk straight in and then walk all the way to the pier, you won't be able to miss the boys.
If you're going by train, take the Red Line and get off at Bryn Mawr. It's a beautiful walk down Historic Bryn Mawr Avenue, the neighborhood has really improved over the last few years and if you've forgotten a few things on the way to the beach, there's a few neighborhood grocery stores on the way. There's even some liquor stores. When you get off the train, walk towards the big Pink Building and under Lakeshore Drive, just keep walking straight to the beach, you'll find it.
If you're coming by bike there are ample bike racks, just take the Lakeshore Trail until it ends at mile 18, when you hit the north turnaround you're there.
What can you expect once you get there?
Even though Hollywood Beach is sorta remote, the crowd that goes there is very laid back and a lot of fun. You'll hear lots of friends laughing, joking and generally having fun, people talk in groups and wade in the water. There are volleyball posts near the edge of the beach (just bring your own net and balls) and there's also a bath house if you've had too much to drink. If you're hungry there is a food vendor that serves hot dogs and other munchies on the weekend. There's a lifeguard station and the guards are very attentive.
The water at Hollywood Beach is gorgeous, it's clear and clean and you can walk a pretty good distance from the shore and still only be waist deep in the water. We've been there the last few weeks and the water is finally warming up, I can tell because my feet aren't numb after 5 minutes. Hollywood Beach is one of 15 designated areas where distance swimming is allowed at the beach either equal to or slightly past the boat line, so you can even get some exercise.
There is all sorts of eye candy at Hollywood Beach, you've got The Twinks, The Muscle Boys, The Daddy's and The Bears, there is literally something for everyone.
Once you're there and you've thrown down your towel and set up your umbrella get ready to enjoy the afternoon, just remember there are a few rules at the beach so that everyone can have an enjoyable time:
- A new No Smoking Ban is in effect at ALL City of Chicago Beaches.
- No alcohol is allowed on Park District property.
- Take your trash with you when you leave.
- G-strings and thongs are only appropriate if you have the body to wear them.
***This coming Saturday, July 12th*** If you're planning on heading to Hollywood Beach this weekend, look for me and the boys from The Feast of Fools along with Tracy Tyler and who knows who else from their show. It'll be a rockin' time I'm sure you won't forget. Hope to see you there.
For more info: Check out the Chicago Park District Swim Report to get daily news on Chicago Beaches. Check out Chicago Weather so you can plan your day accordingly
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