Saugeen Shores is a municipality located in Bruce County, Ontario, Canada. It is situated along the eastern shore of Lake Huron and was formed on January 1, 2001, through the amalgamation of the former Town of Southampton, the Village of Port Elgin, and the Township of Saugeen. The name "Saugeen" originates from the Ojibwe word "Zaagiing," meaning "mouth of the river," referring to the Saugeen River which flows through the region.
The municipality spans approximately 445 square kilometers and includes several communities, with Port Elgin and Southampton serving as the primary population and commercial centers. Saugeen Shores is known for its natural attractions, including Sauble Beach, one of the longest freshwater beaches in the world, which draws seasonal tourism.
The local economy is supported by tourism, agriculture, and small-scale manufacturing. Municipal governance is administered by an elected council led by a mayor. Saugeen Shores falls within the federal riding of Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound and the provincial riding of Huron—Bruce.
The area is also near the traditional territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, an Indigenous community composed of the Chippewas of Saugeen and the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nations. Relations between the municipality and the Saugeen Ojibway Nation involve ongoing discussions on land use, treaty rights, and environmental stewardship.
Accurate information is not confirmed regarding any non-geographic or alternate uses of the term "Saugeen Shores."