Wasaga Beach is the world's longest freshwater beach, stretching 14 kilometres along the shores of Nottawasaga Bay at the southern end of Georgian Bay. Located just 30 minutes from Blue Mountain, it makes for a perfect summer day trip that adds a beach vacation feel to your mountain getaway.
Getting There from Blue Mountain
The drive from Blue Mountain to Wasaga Beach takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes depending on which beach area you are heading to. The route follows Highway 26 east through Collingwood and then south toward Wasaga Beach.
Parking
Parking can be challenging during peak summer weekends. Here are your options:
- **Beach area parking lots** — Pay parking available at designated lots along the beach. Arrive before 10:00 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
- **Street parking** — Limited free or metered parking on some streets. Fills up early.
- **Private lots** — Several private operators offer parking near the busier beach areas at competitive rates.
Tip: Beach Areas 4, 5, and 6 tend to have more available parking than the busy main beach areas.
Understanding Wasaga Beach Areas
Wasaga Beach is divided into numbered beach areas, each with a different character:
Beach Area 1 and 2 (Main Beach)
This is the busiest, most developed section with the highest concentration of shops, restaurants, and facilities. The beach here is wide and sandy, and the water is shallow and warm — perfect for young children. However, it gets extremely crowded on summer weekends.
Best for: Families with young children who want amenities close by, first-time visitors
Beach Area 3 and 4
Slightly less busy than the main beach, these areas offer a good balance of accessibility and space. There are still nearby facilities but more room to spread out.
Best for: Those who want some amenities without the heaviest crowds
Beach Area 5 and 6
These areas are notably quieter and less developed. The beach is still beautiful — wide and sandy — but you will have significantly more space. Facilities are limited, so bring everything you need.
Best for: Those seeking a quieter beach experience, couples, groups wanting more privacy
New Wasaga Beach Provincial Park
The provincial park section of the beach is at the far end and offers the most natural beach experience. It is a longer walk from parking but rewards you with a less crowded, more pristine setting.
Best for: Nature lovers, those willing to walk for a better experience
What to Bring
Beach Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, reapply every 2 hours)
- Beach towels and blankets
- Umbrella or portable shade (there is very little natural shade on the beach)
- Cooler with water, snacks, and lunch
- Sand toys for children
- Beach chairs (the sand is soft enough to sit comfortably, but chairs add convenience)
- Swimsuits and change of clothes
Nice to Have
- A beach tent or pop-up shelter for extended shade
- Frisbee, volleyball, or other beach games
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Books or magazines for relaxing
- Cash for any beach vendors or parking
Water Conditions
Georgian Bay water at Wasaga Beach is generally warm by Ontario lake standards, particularly in July and August when surface temperatures can reach 20 to 24 degrees Celsius. The beach has a very gentle slope, which means you can wade out quite far before the water gets deep — excellent for families with young children but less ideal for serious swimmers who want to get into deep water quickly.
Water Safety
- No lifeguards are on duty at most beach areas (check signage for exceptions)
- Keep children within arm's reach in the water
- Watch for rip currents, which can occur near the river mouth
- The bottom is sandy and generally free of hazards
Where to Eat
On the Beach
Beach Area 1 and 2 have the most food options, including:
- Ice cream shops and frozen treat stands
- Pizza and fast food outlets
- Fish and chips shops
- Beach bars and patios
Nearby Restaurants
For a sit-down meal, the town of Wasaga Beach has several restaurants along Mosley Street and the main commercial area. Options range from casual pubs to family restaurants.
Bring Your Own
Many visitors pack a cooler with lunch, snacks, and drinks. This is the most economical option and saves you from leaving the beach during peak sun hours. A well-packed cooler with sandwiches, fruit, drinks, and snacks will keep your group fuelled all day.
Timing Your Visit
Best Time of Day
- **9:00 to 10:00 AM** — Arrive early for the best parking and a quieter beach before the crowds arrive
- **Midday** — Peak crowds and sun. Apply extra sunscreen and seek shade.
- **After 3:00 PM** — Crowds thin out and the light turns beautiful for photos
- **Sunset** — Wasaga Beach faces west, making it an incredible spot for sunset views
Best Days
Weekdays in July and August are dramatically less crowded than weekends. If your schedule allows, a Tuesday or Wednesday beach day will give you a much more relaxed experience.
Best Months
- **Late June** — Beach season begins, water is still cool but beach is uncrowded
- **July** — Peak beach weather, warmest water, busiest weekends
- **August** — Similar to July, excellent conditions
- **September** — Quieter beaches, still warm enough for swimming on some days
Combining Wasaga Beach with Blue Mountain Activities
A classic summer itinerary at Blue Mountain includes Wasaga Beach as one element of a multi-day trip:
- **Day 1** — Arrive at Blue Mountain, explore the Village, settle into your chalet
- **Day 2** — Full beach day at Wasaga
- **Day 3** — Hiking, biking, or attractions at Blue Mountain
- **Day 4** — Morning paddle on Georgian Bay, afternoon departure
Stay at Blue View Chalets
Blue View Chalets is perfectly positioned for Wasaga Beach day trips. After a full day of sun and sand, return to your chalet for a refreshing shower, soak in the hot tub, and prepare dinner in the fully equipped kitchen. Our chalets provide the space and comfort that make a beach day even better — you have room to rinse off sandy beach gear, hang up wet towels, and relax in a spacious living area rather than a cramped hotel room.
Or call us at (416) 203-2057
