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.
Nottawasaga

History, Arts & Culture

Wasaga Beach boasts a diverse history of stories and experiences across Canada’s past. The Algonquin First Nation, who lived along the Nottawasaga into Ottawa and Quebec, gave the river its name: ‘Nottawa’, an Algonquin word referring to the Iroquois, and ‘Saga’, meaning mouth of the river. These indigenous communities were present on this land for centuries, and met the British ships arriving to North America in the 1800s.
This region’s past is rich with history, with a connection to the War of 1812 and the momentous journey of HMS Nancy on the Nottawasaga River. Uncover the legacy of these soldiers, sailors, and settlers at the Wasaga Beach Museum and Nancy Island Historic Site.
By 1896, fishing and logging industries along the Nottawasaga brought rise to a village at the river’s mouth. Since then, Wasaga Beach has expanded into a bustling tourist destination for its picturesque beach and proximity to Toronto’s urban life. From heart-pounding motorcycle races to the relaxation of Base Borden’s WWII recruits, Wasaga Beach has a long history of year-round leisure and exploration.

Nancy Island Historic Site

The Nancy Island Historic Site reveals the story of HMS Nancy during the War of 1812, a conflict with establishing effects on Canada’s borders after the war. The site houses the ship’s remains alongside various artifacts and recreations from the 19th century. Guests of all ages can visit the island to participate in insightful tours and demonstrations.
Nancy Island Historic Site
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."
Wasaga Society of the Arts
Additional Arts
Interested in further exploring arts and history? Check out:
Wasaga Beach Historical Walking Tour
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Wasaga Society of the Arts
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Wasaga Community Theatre
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Day Trips

Surrounding Area

Coldwater Canadiana Heritage Museum
35 minutes away
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Collingwood Museum
25 minutes away
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Craigleith Heritage Depot
35 minutes away
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Discovery Harbour
40 minutes away
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Huronia Museum and Huron Ouendat Village
35 minutes away
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Ontario Provincial Police Museum
55 minutes away
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Saint-Marie Among the Hurons
30 minutes away
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Sheffield Park Black History and Cultural Museum
45 minutes away
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Simcoe County Museum
30 minutes away
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Events
Check out the events calendar to see
what we have going on!
Events Calendar
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More to Explore

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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.
Plan Your Adventure Today