Simmons Island Beach

About Simmons Island Beach

Simmons Island sits beside Kenosha's harbour, with two lighthouses and a restored 1934 beach house. The city's shipping history, former lakeside factories and old dumps keep sending glass and other debris ashore, and the local tourism office actively promotes beachcombing here.

Sea glass at Simmons Island Beach

Ambers and whites alongside cobalt, teal and lavender, with the occasional red or orange in winter; also stoppers, marbles, pottery and fossils such as crinoids and trilobites. Storms bring fresh material.

Visiting Simmons Island Beach

Parking

Visit Kenosha says parking is free; a small beach access fee has been reported (check current charges).

Safety

Check the tide times before you go and head out on a falling tide, so you're never cut off. Keep away from the bottom of cliffs, wear sturdy shoes on rocks, and only take sea glass and other man-made rubbish: pebbles, sand and shells should stay on the beach.