Wasaga Beach residents will have more free parking options near the waterfront this summer than ever before, as the town expands its resident parking program to include two of its most popular beach areas.
For the first time, Beach Areas 1 and 2 will operate as municipal parking lots, allowing residents with a valid digital parking permit to park free of charge throughout the summer. The move follows direction from town council and builds on a program first introduced in 2023.
Mayor Brian Smith says the expansion is meant to make it easier for residents to enjoy everything the beachfront has to offer - without added financial pressure.
“Summer in Wasaga Beach is about making memories at the waterfront, and we want residents to be able to enjoy the beach as easily as possible. At a time when costs are high, this is one small way we can help residents save money, stay close to home, and enjoy more of what makes summer in Wasaga Beach special - from the waterfront and live music to family events and evenings by the beach.”
Previously, free resident parking was available at New Wasaga and Allenwood Beach. With the addition of Beach Areas 1 and 2, residents will now have access to more waterfront parking locations across the community.
The parking expansion comes as Wasaga Beach prepares for a busy tourism season. The town is set to host more than 80 live music performances, along with the debut of the Wasaga BeachLife Festival and Midway, expanded waterfront celebrations, and a lineup of signature events along the world’s longest freshwater beach.
Officials say the expansion reflects council’s ongoing commitment to improving waterfront access while supporting a vibrant tourism economy.
How the program works
Residents with a valid digital Resident Parking Permit can park for free at all municipal lots, including the newly added Beach Areas 1 and 2. Permits can be obtained or renewed online before the summer season begins.
The program, first launched in 2023, saw strong uptake in its first year, with more than 14,000 permits claimed.
Visitor parking still available
While residents benefit from free parking, visitors can still access municipal lots through paid hourly or daily options using the Honk mobile app, with digital payment available at all locations.
Additional parking is also offered at Beach Areas 3 through 6 via Ontario Parks, where drivers must use provincial permits or seasonal passes. Municipal and provincial parking permits are not interchangeable.
Plan ahead before heading to the beach
With Wasaga Beach welcoming upwards of two million visitors annually, officials are encouraging both residents and tourists to plan ahead, especially during peak weekends and major events.
Parking maps, rates, and permit information are available on the town’s website.
For more information on parking and summer events, residents and visitors visit wasagabeach.com/parking
