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Over our 35 year history, White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa, has won awards, hosted fantastic events, welcomed dignitaries, and generally been in the news. We'll post and and archive our press releases here for your browsing convenience.

2025 Tourism Award

White Oaks Resort & Spa Wins “Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality” at the 2025 Niagara Business Achievement Awards

Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON (July 2nd, 2025) - White Oaks Resort & Spa is proud to announce its selection as the 2025 winner of the “Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality” award at the Niagara Business Achievement Awards (NBAA), presented by the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC), recognizing the resort for innovation and leadership in the Canadian Tourism Industry

The Niagara Business Achievement Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of businesses, non-profits, charities, and leaders across the region. Each year, the GNCC recognizes individuals and organizations that exemplify innovation, resilience, and excellence—those whose efforts contribute significantly to the prosperity and vibrancy of Niagara.

This year, White Oaks was nominated in the highly competitive “Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality” category, which honours businesses that demonstrate exceptional leadership and innovation in the Canadian tourism industry, while offering a superior guest experience. Following a detailed nomination and submission process, White Oaks was selected as a finalist and ultimately named winner at the prestigious awards gala.

“Thank you to the entire White Oaks Team for their hard work and dedication,” said Ameer Wakil, CEO of White Oaks Resort & Spa. “It is truly your collective passion and commitment each and every day that makes everything possible—including this recognition.”

This award serves as a meaningful validation of the resort’s continued commitment to hospitality excellence, guest satisfaction, and innovation within the tourism sector. It reflects the work of a dedicated team who strive daily to provide industry-leading service and create unforgettable experiences for both local and international guests.

Niagara Business Achievement Awards 2025

Wine List Leader

LIV Restaurant Earns 2025 Wine Spectator Restaurant Award

Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON (July 3rd, 2025) - LIV Restaurant, located within White Oaks Resort & Spa, has been honored for its outstanding wine program in Wine Spectator’s 2025 Restaurant Awards, which celebrate the world’s best restaurants for wine.

“A wine list is a restaurant’s identity in print, and this year’s Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winners reflect both deep knowledge and a passion for discovery,” said Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher, Wine Spectator. “I proudly present the 3,811 restaurants worldwide that earned a Restaurant Award this year—we raise a glass to all our winners.”

“This award is a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of our team.” says Shelly Scott-Young, White Oaks Sommelier. “I am honored to share this with them.”

Launched in 1981, the Restaurant Awards represent the world’s only program focused exclusively on restaurant wine service. They are assigned on three levels: the Award of Excellence, the Best of Award of Excellence, and the Grand Award, with 2,010; 1,704; and 97 winners this year in each respective category.

LIV Restaurant has received the Award of Excellence, which recognizes restaurants whose wine lists feature a well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style. The Wine Spectator’s special Restaurant Awards issue will be available to readers beginning July 15, 2025.

Learn more about Wine Specator Awards

Green Keys Rating

White Oaks Resort & Spa Earns Prestigious 4 Green Keys from Green Key Global

June 2025 - White Oaks Resort & Spa is proud to announce that it has been awarded 4 Green Keys from Green Key Global, in acknowledgment of its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

This prestigious designation marks a significant milestone for the resort, which has elevated its rating from 3 Keys to 4 — an achievement that reflects a dedication to meaningful advancements in eco-conscious operations across all areas of the property.

The Green Key certification is awarded to hotels and resorts that demonstrate a commitment to improving environmental and social performance. At White Oaks, these efforts are woven into the very fabric of the guest experience through:

• Energy and water conservation initiatives
• Comprehensive waste reduction and recycling programs
• Use of eco-friendly and biodegradable products
• Education and engagement of staff and guests in sustainable practices

“We’re honoured to receive this recognition from Green Key Global,” says Traci Luongo, Director of Conference Services. “Sustainability is not just a trend for us — it’s a responsibility. We are dedicated to creating a luxurious, wellness-focused guest experience while minimizing our environmental impact.”

White Oaks Resort & Spa will continue to explore new and innovative ways to reduce its footprint and contribute positively to the community and environment. For more information about White Oaks Resort & Spa and its sustainability initiatives, visit whiteoaksresort.com.

Prestigious Rankings

White Oaks Resort & Spa Recognized Among Canada’s Best Hotels and Resorts by U.S. News & World Report

February 19, 2025 - White Oaks Resort & Spa is proud to announce its remarkable achievement in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings. The prestigious travel publication has recognized White Oaks as one of the Top 100 Hotels in Canada (#25 on the list) and #4 of the top 25 Resorts nationwide.

The annual U.S. News Best Hotels rankings are based on a comprehensive analysis of industry awards, expert recommendations, and guest reviews. Properties that receive top rankings consistently demonstrate excellence in luxury, hospitality, and overall guest satisfaction.

“White Oaks is proud to announce its recent recognition as one of the top hospitality properties nationwide, ranking #25 of Canada’s top 100 hotels and #4 amongst Canada’s top 25 resorts,” said Ameer Wakil, CEO of White Oaks Resort & Spa. “These prestigious accolades reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence, exceptional guest experiences, and world-class service. We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition from U.S. News Travel. This achievement is a true testament to our dedicated Team, whose passion and hard work create unforgettable stays for our guests. White Oaks extends its gratitude to our loyal guests and supporters who make this success possible. As we continue to elevate our efforts, we look forward to welcoming travellers seeking the finest in luxury in a warm and welcoming environment.”

Anna Corman, Director of Human Resources shared her gratitude, stating: “We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition. White Oaks is built on a foundation of care, dignity, and respect, this acknowledgment is a testament to our Team’s dedication to exceeding guests’ expectations every day. Their hard work and commitment make this achievement possible, and we couldn’t be more proud of our Team.”

Dave Cassidy, Director of Hotel and Conference Operations remarked: “Who could have imagined when we first opened our doors in 1978, that we would one day receive such an incredible honour while staying true to the family values that built us? It means the world to be recognized amongst some truly incredible properties and this achievement serves to prove that customer service, genuine care, and keen attention to detail make a meaningful impact on the guest experience.”

Located in the heart of Niagara’s wine country, White Oaks Resort is renowned for its luxurious accommodations, award-winning spa, state-of-the-art fitness club, and world-class dining experiences. The resort’s commitment to delivering unparalleled service and exceptional guest experiences has solidified its reputation as one of Canada’s premier destinations for relaxation and luxury.

Best Hotels in Canada 2025

Best Resorts in Canada 2025

Top Niagara Spa

White Oaks Named #1 Spa in Niagara Once Again

January 2025 - White Oaks Resort & Spa is proud to announce that The Spa at White Oaks has been named #1 in Niagara, #2 in Canada, and #23 in all of North America on the highly esteemed Top 100 list from Spas of America. This remarkable achievement highlights The Spa’s commitment to providing world-class treatments, exceptional service, and an unparalleled guest experience.

“To say that we are incredibly honoured and proud of this recognition is an understatement,” says Ameer Wakil, CEO of White Oaks Resort & Spa. “This recognition is a testament to the dedication, expertise, and passion of our incredible team. We are proud to provide an unparalleled spa experience that continues to set the standard for wellness and relaxation.”

Natalie Graham, Spa Director at White Oaks, shared her pride in the team’s accomplishments: “I am truly honoured to lead such an exceptional team. Their dedication to making our guests’ experience the top priority is at the heart of what we do. This recognition is a direct reflection of their hard work and commitment to excellence.”

Nestled in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, The Spa at White Oaks offers guests a tranquil oasis where they can rejuvenate their minds and bodies. From award-winning treatments to a serene and luxurious ambiance, every detail is thoughtfully curated to create a truly memorable spa experience.

White Oaks Resort & Spa remains committed to delivering excellence and creating unforgettable moments for every guest. We invite you to come and experience what makes The Spa at White Oaks one of the best in the country and beyond.

Spas of America Top 100 Spas 2024

Spas of America White Oaks Listing