The Heart of Summer on Simmons Island: The Beach House Story
When you step onto Simmons Island and see the Tudor Revival-style Beach House overlooking Lake Michigan, it’s easy to feel like you’ve discovered a piece of history. But thanks to operator Meryl Strichartz, the building is more than just a landmark — it’s a hub of community, recreation, and summertime memories.
Meryl Strichartz didn’t originally set out to run the Beach House. It was the encouragement of former Mayor John Antaramian and Kenosha County Supervisor Laura Belsky that led her to the role. Both knew her background with the Kenosha Community Sailing Center and believed she could create synergy on the lakefront.
“I don’t think I fully understood the historical significance of the Beach House until it opened,” Strichartz admits. “Every day, someone shares their memories — from lifeguarding to family outings. The oral history is even greater than the building itself.”
That history is something she protects fiercely. On the National Register of Historic Places, the Beach House’s Tudor Revival charm has remained intact while new life and new stories continue to unfold inside.
With an MBA from UW-Parkside and years of experience in education, career coaching, and entrepreneurship, Strichartz brings a unique mix of business savvy and heart to the Beach House. Her work supporting people with disabilities has also shaped how she builds opportunities, always with inclusivity and accessibility in mind.
She laughs when crediting one of her unexpected business advisors: “My hair stylist, Angie Paros of Asteri Salon. Her family ran Greek restaurants, so I pick her brain constantly while she makes my hair look great.”
Today, visitors walking into the Beach House will find a lively space filled with Kenosha-branded merchandise, rental gear like bikes and beach loungers, and a concession stand that’s famous for its burgers — and a “beach sauce” many say rivals In-N-Out’s animal sauce.
Outside, the calendar is packed. Friday night bonfires, DJ dance parties, luaus, and the annual LakeFest bring people together in the glow of firelight or under the stars. “What makes me happiest,” Strichartz says, “is when people of different ages and backgrounds come together to enjoy the beach. I often sit off to the side, just basking in the glow.”
One of the biggest highlights is LakeFest, featuring a boat parade and a growing partnership with the Kenosha Community Sailing Center. The festival not only celebrates summer but also shines a spotlight on Kenosha’s harbor and the natural beauty of Lake Michigan.
Though Simmons Island is a beloved spot for locals, it has also become a magnet for visitors. “People are always impressed by how beautiful our beach is, and they’re surprised by how much we offer for a smaller harbor town,” Strichartz says. Many guests come from just across the Illinois border, but she also serves as an impromptu tour guide, pointing tourists toward downtown shops, the Velodrome, or Tenuta’s.
Working closely with Visit Kenosha, the Beach House benefits from broader exposure. Travel writers, bloggers, and even Harley-Davidson poker runs help introduce more people to the venue. Strichartz sees it all as part of a bigger picture: “If we don’t provide access and connections to Lake Michigan, the next generation won’t protect our waters.”
The Beach House continues to evolve. A new dance floor has already expanded event possibilities, and an upgraded haunted escape room is set to return this fall. Strichartz also has her eyes on the future: expanded volleyball courts, more ice cream and coffee options, and solutions for the ever-present challenge of parking.
But at its core, her vision remains rooted in community. “Whether you’re on a beach vacation or staycation, the Beach House on Simmons Island is the center of our local lake life,” she says. “And everyone knows that lake days are the best days.”
Insider Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to the Beach House, here are Meryl’s top three must-dos:
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Catch a Friday night bonfire on the beach.
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Take a pedal duck ride in the Kenosha Harbor.
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Hop on a pedal trolley for a ride through downtown.
Chill, fun, and welcoming — that’s the vibe Meryl hopes every guest feels when they walk through the doors or sit along the shoreline. With its mix of history, recreation, and pure lakefront magic, the Beach House on Simmons Island has secured its place as one of Kenosha’s most cherished summer destinations. Now hurry up Summer 2026!
Please check their event calendar for events and hours this September CLICK HERE
5001 Simmons Island Rd • kenoshabeachhouse.com • Facebook • Instagram •
Learn more about Meryl Strichartz by listening to her appearance on the Ktown Connects Podcast • Apple • Spotify • Youtube •
