28

More than just a tourist destination, over 20,000 people live in Wasaga Beach year-round. Situated on the longest freshwater beach in the world, Wasaga Beach has always been a popular summer destination, but now this town in Simcoe County is sprawling with year-round excitement and new condos.

There’s more to entertainment in Wasaga beach than just the beach. Matryrs’ Shrine is a unique Roman Catholic Church, one of nine National Shrines in Canada, located just East of the beach in Midland. The church boasts stained glass windows donated from churches in London and is shaped like an overturned canoe, designed and built by IIdege Bourrie. The church still houses the bones of its namesake Martyr, Saint Jean de Brebeuf. For more history visit the Nancy Island Historic Site, which commemorates the War of 1812’s HMS Nancy’s battle against three American Schooners. This site houses artefacts from the original vessel as well as tours. Nancy island is also home to a replica light house.

Eat and shop at Stonebridge Town Centre where you can find a Boston Pizza and stores like The Source and Wal-Mart. What would living near the beach be without seafood? Enjoy elegant seafood at Catch 22 Fresh Market Grill or grab some fish done the traditional way at Blue Shores Fish & Chips.

There are currently approximately 25 condos in Wasaga Beach, which gives living at the beach an exclusive feel, but condo development is expected to increase in the next few years.

For those that love cooking, Pho Simcoe is a 23-minute walk.

If you are looking for transit, don't fear, there is a Bus Stop (18th Street) only a 14 minute walk.