Daily passes are no longer available for Evanston beaches. (Evanston Parks & Recreation / Facebook)

Evanston’s beaches have been a refuge for many Chicagoans looking to get their local fix of surf and sand this summer, what with Chicago’s beaches still on lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Now even that slice of normalcy is being curtailed.

Though Evanston beaches are open through Sept. 7, daily beach passes are no longer being sold as of Aug. 12. According to a statement from the city, sales are being cut off because a sizable percentage of seasonal staff members — lifeguards and gate attendants — are returning to school. With fewer personnel to manage its beaches, the city is seeking to lower attendance.

A season pass, which costs $30 for non-residents, can still be purchased. Passes are required for every person over the age of 1. 

Beaches have capacity limits, and visitors are expected to adhere to social distancing guidelines. Masks must be worn when entering the beach, when interacting with staff, and when maintaining social distance isn’t possible.

Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 |  [email protected]