Wasaga Beach takes on a new personality when the snow flies

Wasaga Beach might just be Ontario's biggest unsung hero during the winter months. In the summer, "The Strip" buzzes with beach junkies from dawn until dusk as the seductive white sand disappears beneath technicolor towels. But when the mercury dips, noisy tourists go home and kitschy shops close up, the natural beauty of Wasaga stands alone against the waves.

Wasaga Beach, OntarioI love Wasaga Beach best when it's quiet and brooding, waves hitting the shore with a cadence you can't connect to during the rowdiness of summer. Walking the beach with my back against the wind, my hand tucked into my lover's, this beach rivals any Caribbean beach - except for the fact that it's too cold to walk with your toes in the water.

Whether you're a snow bunny, all about long walks on the beach or just want to cuddle up by the fire, Wasaga Beach makes for a secluded weekend getaway this winter.

Saga Beach Resort, Wasaga Beach, Ontario

Saga Resort, Wasaga Beach, OntarioSaga Resort is just a few minutes' walk from the beach and it's technically it's a motel - so all the rooms open to an outdoor corridor. We stayed in the honeymoon suite but if you really want to disconnect, a cluster of cottages sit behind the main building - they range from one to four bedroom.

If you enjoy walking on the beach in solitude and can find indoor ways to amuse yourself, this is your resort during the winter months. If you're looking for luxury and budget isn't a concern or you prefer to spend your getaway dining at restaurants or shopping, you won't find your bliss you're here.

Honeymoon suite, Saga ResortDuring high season, rates for their honeymoon suite hover around $270 but during the winter those rates dip to $175 per night. With a king size bed, in-room Jacuzzi and a full kitchen (fridge, stove and microwave), it's perfect for couples who want to get away together and not get dressed for dinner. Pack a swimsuit if you want to enjoy the outdoor common hot tub. 

If you go, visit the Saga Resort online, visit their Facebook Page, or talk with them on Twitter. Also, see what other travelers have to say on TripAdvisor. Reservations and information: 800-263-7053

Close-by activities

If you plan to stay a couple of nights, there's a lot to do within a short drive from Wasaga.

• Wasaga Beach kitingSkiing - Within an hour's drive you'll find four of Ontario's best ski hills: Blue Mountain, Horseshoe Valley, Snow Valley and Moonstone. Because Wasaga is such a well-kept secret, you'll pay a fraction of the cost for lodging that you would in ski resort town.

• Golf - There's no shortage of golf courses in the Wasaga area. We dare you to try them all: Marlwood Golf and Country Club, Links at New England Village, Wasaga Sands Golf Club.

• Scandinave Spa in Collingwood - Less than 5 years old, this spa has quickly earned a global reputation for excellence and mindful healing. Read our post on the Scandinave Spa for more info.

• Hiking and biking trails

• Scenic Caves

Got a hidden getaway worth sharing? Let us in on your secret - follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook and let's start talking!

To comply with the long list of regulating bodies and in the interest of transparency, our experience at Saga Resort was provided at a pre-arranged media rate. Commentary and perspectives are those of GoGirlfriend.