Whihala Beach, Whiting Lakefront Park, & Whoa Zone Floating Water Park

Please note: WhoaZone, located at Whihala Beach in Whiting, will not open in 2020 due to safe social distancing standards. Check back to see updates for the 2021 season.

Whihala Beach will reopen May 25, 2020. Attendees are expected to adhere to physical distancing and other public health recommendations when at the beach or the park. Security personnel will be monitoring and enforcing physical distancing among visitors.

For more information, contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 219-659-0860.

The Whiting Lakefront and Whihala Beach may be best known for its picturesque views of Chicago's skyline from the sandy beaches and beautiful boardwalk, but this Whiting location also features walking paths, play and picnic areas, a fishing pier, and a floating water park.

Parking

Whiting Lakefront Park and Whihala Beach have metered parking throughout the park, beach and on 117th St. For current fees, visit their website here.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed on trails if they are leashed. During the off season - after Labor Day until Memorial Day - they can be on the beach but must be leashed.

Whihala Beach Whiting

Whihala Beach

Whihala Beach spans more than 20 acres. Swimming is only permitted when a lifeguard is on duty. Visitors can enjoy the beach, swim and relax on the shores or on a boat. A number of migrating bird species can be seen in the flyway for those interested in bird watching. Paddleboard, kayak, and cabana rentals are also available near the Whoa Zone water park.

HOURS:
Memorial Day – Labor Day: 10am-6pm
Beach Parking Lot (past the gates): 10:30am-6:30pm
Boat Launch Parking Lot: 7am-6:30pm

FEES:
Park and Beach Parking Meters - Cars: $4 per hour or $20 all day; Minimum credit card purchase is $5.
Boat launch fee: $30

Whoa Zone Whiting

Whoa Zone

WhoaZone will not open in 2020 due to safe social distancing standards.

Whoa Zone at Whihala brings additional entertainment with a one-acre floating water park. The floating structure includes monkey bars, slides, towers, bridges and jumping platforms for children and adults (must be 7 years old, at least 45" tall and a good swimmer.) Various play areas offer different levels of challenge so both young and old can enjoy the attraction. Visitors are encouraged to schedule their hour-long sessions in advance, especially during busy and hot weekends in the summer.

Whoa Zone Hours

Weather permitting
2021 Schedule TBD

Whiting Lakefront Park

Whiting's Lakefront Park

Whiting's Lakefront Park has recently been revamped and offers plenty to do for everyone. Grassy areas are perfect for picnicking and play areas are a favorite for preschool and elementary aged kids.

Enjoy hiking the walking paths or playing on the tennis or sand volleyball courts. There is metered parking at the park as well as bathrooms and concessions.