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Centennial Beach

4.5
·115 reviews·Naperville, United States

A historic quarry transformed into a vibrant beach oasis, offering sandy shores, zero-depth entry, and picnic fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
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Centennial Beach

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic quarry transformed into a vibrant beach oasis, offering sandy shores, zero-depth entry, and picnic fun.

4.5
(115 reviews)

"Amazing place to come cool off or relax! It's a fun time for a date or a day with the family!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Grab Your Tickets Early

Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially for non-residents, to save time and potentially money .

☀️ Seek Quieter Spots

The further end of the beach is recommended for a more relaxed, low-sensory experience .

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.5 · 115 reviews

Type

Beach

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sandy Beach Oasis

Sandy Beach Oasis

Main beach area

Relax on the expansive sandy shores of this unique quarry-turned-beach.

Zero-Depth Entry & Slide

Zero-Depth Entry & Slide

Shallow end

Perfect for little ones, with a fun slide for ages 7 and up.

Deep Water Zone

Deep Water Zone

Back area

A vast section of 15-foot deep water for confident swimmers.

Picnic & Grill Paradise

Picnic & Grill Paradise

Grassy lawn areas

Ample grills, picnic tables, and grassy areas for a perfect outdoor meal.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Centennial Beach can get busy, especially on hot summer days. Consider visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience. Booking tickets in advance can save time and potentially money, especially for non-residents.Instagram

Know Before You Go: Safety & Amenities

Lifeguards are on duty during peak season, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers.Instagram+1 The beach offers amenities like concessions, restrooms with showers, and picnic areas with grills, making it convenient for a full day of fun.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temps, sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Beach In The Chicago Suburbs!? 👀 Dive into Summer Fun at Centennial Beach! 🌊🌞 Explore Naperville’s historic quarry transformed into a summer oasis! Admission starts at $10 for Naperville residents and $14 for non-residents. Here’s what awaits: 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Sandy Beach: Relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun. 🤿 Kid-Friendly Water Playground: Let the little ones splash and play...
livingchicagosuburbs
6.2K likes • 282.3K views

🎟️ Grab Your Tickets Early

Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially for non-residents, to save time and potentially money.Instagram

☀️ Seek Quieter Spots

The further end of the beach is recommended for a more relaxed, low-sensory experience.Instagram

Barrie lifeguards are ready for beach season at Johnson’s Beach & Centennial Beach. Yesterday, lifeguards completed a submerged victim rescue exercise with partners: @barriefire, @countyofsimcoe paramedic services, & @barriepolice. Find info on Barrie’s beaches at barrie.ca/beaches #BarrieWaterfront #BarrieRec #Barrie #BarrieOntario
citybarrie
641 likes • 20.8K views
Barrie, Ontario, is just an hour away from Toronto, making it perfect for a day trip to explore this beautiful city!🇨🇦 10 Things to Do in Barrie, Ontario • Relax at Centennial Beach • Explore Downtown Barrie • Visit the MacLaren Art Centre • Walk Along the Waterfront Trail • Enjoy Sunnidale Park • Ski at Snow Valley • Learn at Simcoe County Museum • Visit Horseshoe Resort • Attend a Show at Geor...
simply.nma
0 likes • 6.5K views

🚗 Easy Access via GO Train

The Allandale Barrie GO station is conveniently located minutes away.Instagram

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Utilize the numerous grills and picnic tables for a budget-friendly meal.Reddit

Our annual trip to Centennial Beach went a little something like this! ☀️🏝️
oprfhscheerleading
82 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Grab Your Tickets Early

Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially for non-residents, to save time and potentially money.Instagram

☀️ Seek Quieter Spots

The further end of the beach is recommended for a more relaxed, low-sensory experience.Instagram

🚗 Easy Access via GO Train

The Allandale Barrie GO station is conveniently located minutes away.Instagram

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Utilize the numerous grills and picnic tables for a budget-friendly meal.Reddit

💧 Check Water Quality

While generally enjoyable, some reviews mention concerns about water cleanliness.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(115 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Centennial Beach is a popular spot with a unique quarry-turned-beach setting, offering sandy shores, a zero-depth entry, and ample picnic facilities. While many praise its family-friendly atmosphere and amenities, some visitors have noted concerns about cleanliness and pricing.

"It was much cooler going there in my teens,we'd all meet at "The Wall" on the hill behind the tall diving boards...it's not the beach I remember in my youth..they also WIPED OUT the ecosystem at the Quarry by N.C.H.S.
The city has systematically removed our family name from it's history..
My Grandad was mayor and NOTHING of his plaques or mention of him have been removed from the Naperville History book they so PROUDLY sell.
Naperville lost it's soul decades ago.
I'm glad I moved to Key West."

Charles “Baron” Zaininger

"Fun giant beach made from an old quarry. Zero depth entry and a fun slide for ages 7+
The back area is a giant section of 15 feet deep water.
Lots of sand for the littles.
Lots of grills and picnic tables and green grassy lawn for picnics."

Laurel Hays

"Amazing place to come cool off or relax! Let’s see where do I begin ummm has a concession stand, bathrooms with showers, chairs and benches, diving boards, water slide, sand and etc! It a fun time for a date or a day with the family!"

MEOWING!

What People Like

Unique quarry setting
Family-friendly zero-depth entry
Ample picnic areas with grills

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Occasional water cleanliness concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Centennial Beach is easily accessible. If arriving by public transport, the Allandale Barrie GO station is just minutes away.Instagram Driving is also an option with parking available along the waterfront.Instagram

Yes, parking is available along the waterfront near the beach.Instagram Arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.

Absolutely! The Allandale Barrie GO station is a convenient option, placing you just minutes from the beach.Instagram

Yes, Centennial Beach is about an hour away from Toronto, making it a perfect destination for a day trip.Instagram

Centennial Beach in Naperville is a local attraction, often reached by car. Public transport options within Naperville can be explored via local transit services.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices vary for residents and non-residents. For Naperville's Centennial Beach, prices start around $10 for residents and $14 for non-residents.Instagram It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.

Yes, admission tickets are required for Centennial Beach, especially during the summer season. Purchasing in advance is recommended.Instagram

Yes, Centennial Beach offers membership options, which can be a cost-effective choice for frequent visitors. Look into purchasing these early in the season.Instagram

Operating hours are seasonal and typically extend throughout the summer months. It's best to check the official Centennial Beach website for specific daily hours.

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. The beach also features public grills and picnic tables, making it ideal for a picnic.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Yes, lifeguards are on duty daily during the summer season to ensure swimmer safety.Instagram+1

Activities include swimming, relaxing on the sandy beach, picnicking with grills and tables, and enjoying the zero-depth entry area with a slide.Reddit

Absolutely! The zero-depth entry and sandy areas are perfect for little ones.Reddit

Yes, the beach is equipped with restrooms that include showers for visitor convenience.Reddit

For a more peaceful experience, head to the further end of Centennial Beach, which is recommended for those seeking a low-sensory environment.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a concession stand available at Centennial Beach offering various food and drink options.Reddit

Yes, Centennial Beach provides public grills and picnic tables, making it an excellent spot for barbecues.Reddit

Yes, there are often food trucks nearby, and the downtown area of Barrie offers various dining options.Instagram+1

The concession stand typically offers typical beach fare like snacks, drinks, and light meals. Specific offerings may vary.

Bringing your own picnic is a great way to save money, especially for families. The concession stand is convenient for quick snacks or if you forget something.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful lighting for photos, especially during sunset.Instagram

The sandy shores, the zero-depth entry area, and the waterfront views provide great photo opportunities.Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary by location. It's best to check with local authorities or the park management before flying a drone.

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.

You can capture wide shots of the beach, close-ups of families enjoying the water, and scenic sunset views.Instagram

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