A HIstory Of The
Beach
We recognize the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples of Canada as traditional stewards and caretakers of the land.
The Town of Wasaga Beach acknowledges it is located upon the traditional territory of the Anishnaabe people of the Three Fires Confederacy. We also acknowledge that the people of the Wyandot Nation also inhabited these lands.
We acknowledge that these nations were sovereign nations existing before the arrival of settlers.
We respect the spiritual interconnection among these nations to the land and to the water.
We also acknowledge that waterways near us have a long history predating European arrival. Since time immemorial, waterways were the lifeblood of the Indigenous people by trade and hunting routes.
We are dedicated to inclusivity of First Nations, Inuit and Metis people in our future stewardship of the land and the longest freshwater beach in the world. In the spirit of reconciliation, we welcome the opportunity of learning to be sustainable caretakers of the land and waterways for all future generations.
We acknowledge that these nations were sovereign nations existing before the arrival of settlers.
We respect the spiritual interconnection among these nations to the land and to the water.
We also acknowledge that waterways near us have a long history predating European arrival. Since time immemorial, waterways were the lifeblood of the Indigenous people by trade and hunting routes.
We are dedicated to inclusivity of First Nations, Inuit and Metis people in our future stewardship of the land and the longest freshwater beach in the world. In the spirit of reconciliation, we welcome the opportunity of learning to be sustainable caretakers of the land and waterways for all future generations.
Nottawasaga
History, Arts & Culture
Wasaga Beach boasts a rich history intertwined with diverse narratives from various periods of Canadian history. Our river, the Nottawasaga, was given by the Algonquin First Nation, who lived in small groups in Wasaga and in the surrounding area. “Nottawa”, an Algonquin word for Iroquois, and ‘Saga’, meaning mouth of the river; these indigenous peoples were present in small groups when the first British arrived in the early 1800’s and long before.
This region played a significant role in the War of 1812, notably with the intriguing tale of the ship "The Nancy." The tales of the early settlers and the geopolitical significance of the Nancy’s legacy can be explored further at the Wasaga Beach Museum and Nancy Island.
Throughout the 1800s, the river primarily served fishing and logging activities, eventually giving rise to a village around the river mouth by 1896. As the 20th century unfolded, Wasaga emerged as a bustling tourist destination, attracting visitors with its picturesque beach and proximity to Toronto. From hosting motorcycle races to serving as a retreat for WWII soldiers on leave from Base Borden, Wasaga's allure continued to expand, evolving into a year-round destination for leisure and exploration.
Nancy Island Historic Site
The Nancy Island Historic Site tells the story of the HMS Nancy during the War of 1812, which had establishing effects on Canada’s border during this war. The site houses artifacts, as well as part of the ship, and visitors participate in demonstrations and tours on the island.
Wasaga Society of the Arts
The Arts
The Arts are an essential landmark of growth for every community. The Wasaga society of the Arts promotes this in our community.
Their mission: "To advance the public’s appreciation of the arts by encouraging, supporting, facilitating and promoting developmental initiatives and activities of the artistic communities of Wasaga Beach and Southern Georgian Bay".
Additional Arts
Interested in further exploring arts and history? Check out:
Wasaga Beach Historical Walking Tour
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Wasaga Beach Museum and Archives
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Wasaga Society of the Arts
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Wasaga Community Theatre
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Day Trips
Surrounding Area
Events
Check out the events calendar to see
what we have going on!
what we have going on!
#explorewasagabeach
More to Explore
Explore Like a Local
Plan your visit
Are you visiting Wasaga Beach for the first time? Read on for some trip inspiration, and to learn more about some of Wasaga Beach’s local gems. Natural wonders, exciting adventures, and relaxing outings can all be found around town.
