A major redevelopment is coming to Wasaga Beach’s iconic waterfront, with Sunray Group announcing plans to build a premium Marriott hotel on Beach Drive at Beach Area 1.
The more than $45 million investment will see a four-phase development take shape near the town’s main beachfront and tourism hub. Phase one, expected to begin construction in early 2026, includes a 120-room hotel featuring a high-quality restaurant, wedding and convention facilities, retail shops, and a wellness area with fitness, spa or pool amenities.
Sunray Group’s CEO, Ray Gupta, returned to familiar ground to share the news, joining Mayor Brian Smith and members of Town Council for the announcement. “I have amazing memories of family vacations spent enjoying the beach and the sun,” said Gupta. “Those early experiences gave me a lasting appreciation for this vibrant beach community.”
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The development is being hailed as a transformational step toward establishing Wasaga Beach as a premier year-round destination.
“Today, Sunray Group has confirmed they will build a Marriott hotel next to our spectacular beachfront,” said Mayor Smith. “This historic investment will complement smaller, family-owned inns and restaurants in our community. It represents local jobs, higher-value tourism and multi-day visits to Wasaga Beach.”
In addition to the hotel, Sunray Group will contribute $1.5 million toward the creation of a new Festival Square — a flexible, outdoor events space that will be used for concerts, markets and other community programming.
The Town and Sunray have also entered into a joint venture agreement for future development phases, which may include residences affiliated with Marriott. These would give homeowners the option of renting out their units, following a model similar to the one used at the Village at Blue Mountain.
The announcement builds on recent provincial support for tourism in the area. Just days before, Premier Doug Ford committed $38 million to boost tourism infrastructure in Wasaga Beach.
As one of Ontario’s fastest-growing municipalities, the town sees this project as a way to support local businesses, attract global brands, and create lasting experiences for residents and visitors alike. Gupta echoed that vision: “Sunray Group looks forward to delivering a Marriott hotel experience… that will serve the town’s full-time residents, delight its over two million visitors, and cement the town’s position as a spectacular Canadian destination.”
