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Photo courtesy of Joshua Kodis

As featured in Vero News, written by Steve Thomas

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A building boom is underway at the Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club, where real estate prices are up 65 percent since before Covid and demand for homes has never been stronger.

Westmark, builder/developer of Palm Island Plantation, is the main player in the current Orchid building boom, with six new homes going up on one street near the front gate and three more underway elsewhere in the community.

Banov, a Vero Beach architectural and building firm, Croom Construction, and other companies also have homes under construction or in the planning and permitting stage.

The new homes, mostly valued between $1.6 million and $2.5 million, have all been sold, so they won’t bolster the island’s anemic inventory, but they are bringing new life and energy to the ocean-to-river development, which was built along the Atlantic shore and around an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course.

“When you drive around the community and see all the new construction and extensive renovations, you can feel a sense of vibrancy and excitement in the air,” said Orchid Island Realty broker Anne Torline.

“The club started in the early 1990s and you can get by for a couple of decades without major renovations, but we are getting to that point where the houses really need to be upgraded and so many of our members are doing that,” said Torline.

More than 20 percent of the homes and lots in Orchid have changed hands in the past several years and many renovations are being done by new owners fixing up dated homes to suit their modern lifestyles.

In other cases, some residents who might have sold and moved for a variety of reasons, but who “couldn’t find a place to go,” are taking the plunge and redoing their homes for the long haul.

It’s all part of what Club Manager Rob Tench describes as a natural shift and turnover that occurs when a community is 25 or 30 years old and original residents decide to downsize to assisted living or move closer to family members and a new generation of buyers arrives.

The extent of the turnover jumps out on the Property Appraiser website, which shows color-coded sales by year. Six of 11 direct riverfront homes and on Grove Place changed hands in the past three years, for instance, while 12 of 21 on Caribe Way have sold, and other streets have seen a similar infusion of new neighbors moving in from the Northeast, South Florida, the western U.S. and Canada.

Demand and sales at the club “exploded” during the pandemic, with annual sales tripling at the peak of the boom, according to Torline.

“We aren’t as well-known as some of the larger clubs on the island,” Torline added. “But we were discovered during the pandemic when so many people started looking for homes in Florida. Once they found us and came here and looked around, they couldn’t believe how beautiful it is and were eager to buy.”

Westmark Enterprises vice president Steve Owen told Vero Beach 32963 that buyers of his lot/home packages have been attracted “first and foremost by the quality of the community. They are buying a lifestyle, not just shelter. They’re looking for the great golf, tennis, beach club and everything else that is offered here. Once they see all that, it is just a matter of finding a home that fits their needs – which is where we come in.”

Owen was searching for buildable lots on the island back in 2020 – and is still actively looking today – because Palm Island Plantation, Westmark’s signature island community, is very nearly built out with just a lot or two left.

When he heard about the lots in Orchid, he went up and took a look and liked what he saw.

“It is a high-end community that is very well done. It was a perfect match for us in price and quality, and there are a lot of well-qualified people coming into Orchid to look for a home,” Owen said.

He put six lots on Island Place under contract in 2020 and proceeded to design the houses and get them approved by the club and the town of Orchid. Orchid Island Realty sold the home/lot packages.

“The lot/home packages went like that,” Torline said, snapping her fingers. “I think I sold four in one weekend.”

Property records show that Westmark closed on the lots in May 2021 and almost immediately resold them to buyers purchasing lot/home packages.

When Owen saw the hunger for Westmark’s product on Island Place, he snapped up three more lots on other streets in Orchid.

As they sold out, lot prices tripled or close to it, according to Torline.

“Before the pandemic, there were lots listed for under $100,000 and they didn’t sell,” she said. “The one we just put under contract was listed for $295,000.”

Westmark broke ground on its first home in Orchid in the summer of 2021 with the expectation it would take 12-14 months to complete, but pandemic supply chain issues pushed that timeframe back.

“Prior to Covid, we built homes in 10 to 12 months and we thought the extra two months would be sufficient to deal with shortages, but there are still things that are hard to get that have slowed us down,” Owen said. “We are thinking 14 to 16 months now, but it is hard to say for sure.”

Owen cited the metal boxes electric meters fit into as an example of a critical shortage. The boxes are a key component because interior finish work can’t be started until the homes are dried in and there is electricity to run the air conditioning.

“It is frustrating, having one little item like that hold us up,” Owen said.

Westmark offered its new home packages at a fixed price, which turned out to be a costly decision.

“We have always sold homes on a fixed-price basis,” Owen said. “And we sold these the same way. If we would have known what was coming, we would have done it on a cost-plus basis.”

“We’ve have eaten a lot of price increases but so have a lot of other people. There was no way to anticipate all the problems Covid was going to cause, but we will live through it. It’s still been a been a good project for us.”

Photo courtesy of Joshua Kodis

Nestled on a Florida barrier island between the pristine shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the wildlife-filled estuaries of the Indian River Lagoon to the west, Orchid Island is a unique private sanctuary for its resident Members. Within this secluded community, pristine natural environments and world-class amenities converge with a welcoming culture to create a renowned private golf and beach club lifestyle. Meet the Members who share their unique perspectives:

Pictured left to right: Bill Kennedy, Mary Stewart, David McLean

Resident Trio Personifies the Spirit of Orchid Island

For David McLean, a years-long search for a new home led him to an accomplished and friendly community where he rediscovered his passions for painting and music. Bill Kennedy also discovered newfound pleasures, where relaxing days are filled with athletic and intellectual pursuits instead of the hustle of working in the city. Mary Stewart learned first-hand from the kindness of strangers—it’s part of the community culture and connections that matter most when navigating life’s transitions.

What do all three of these Florida residents have in common? They found their purpose at Orchid Island and have shared their stories in the “Life on purpose” editorial series. These profiles of purpose celebrate the personal and collective experiences that unfold every day at this treasured Florida community. See their personal insights into the community’s welcoming culture, inspiring surroundings, and engaged lifestyle. To read more about David, Mary, and Bill’s experiences, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Life on purpose multi-media brochure.

A Private Beach & Golf Club Community on Florida’s Treasure Coast

For many Members, Orchid Island’s environmental diversity gives the community much of its appeal, from coconut palms and nearly a mile of pristine beachfront ancient oak hammocks and mangrove-lined estuaries. Many of the 375 beautiful West Indies-inspired homes feature direct ocean or water views, surrounding Members in the best of Florida’s natural beauty from their backyards. Members enjoy the best natural neighbors, with the community providing sanctuary to hundreds of species of Florida’s migratory birds, manatees, sea turtles, and more. Pristine bodies of water, native wildlife, and Florida’s year-round tropical weather transform this area into a premier private club community.

West Indies-Inspired Architecture Meets Resort-Style Amenities

Embraced by a breathtaking natural environment, Orchid Island’s collection of premier amenities allows Members endless opportunities to enjoy all of the benefits of living a purpose-filled life in today’s world. The world-class Arnold Palmer golf course is the beloved centerpiece of the community and was the proud host of the 2018 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship. Certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, every turn within this par-72 course welcomes exciting views of natural seaside landscapes teeming with wildlife. A West Indies-inspired Beach Club creates an easygoing setting where generations can gather together to enjoy a tropical seaside pool, rejuvenating spa, world-class dining, and endless special-interest clubs.

For the health-focused, a state-of-the-art fitness center houses personal trainers and physical therapists ready to guide and motivate every personal fitness quest. More than 35 group classes, including yoga, Pilates, and spin classes, ensure Members can look and feel their best. Eight Har-Tru tennis courts and two pickleball courts celebrate social connections, muscle movements, and friendly competition for players at all skill levels. No matter how Members choose to spend their days at Orchid Island, the cool ocean breeze is sure to follow them wherever they go.

With demand for this highly sought-after community at an all-time high, residential home inventory is limited at Orchid Island. To learn more about this picturesque, one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine. Visit OrchidIslandFL.com or call 772.388.3888 for more information or to schedule a private community club tour.

From coconut palms and white-sand beaches to ancient oak hammocks and mangrove-lined estuaries, few places in Coastal Florida enjoy a more beautiful setting than Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club. Located in the Town of Orchid in Vero Beach’s “Gateway to the Tropics,” this lush green paradise draws nature lovers from around the world to enjoy the area’s subtropical and tropical climates. Here are just a few of the vibrant natural habitats Members cherish both inside and outside the gates of this renowned private club community.

Orchid Island’s Favored Nature Spots

From the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian River estuaries, the Orchid Island community is surrounded by natural beauty that Members are inspired to enjoy every day. The white sand of Orchid Island’s pristine beachfront stretches for nearly a mile, where residents can stroll the beach, fish, surf, or just spend time soaking in the Florida sunshine. Orchid Island’s riverside kayak launch provides kayakers and paddle boarders with a sightseeing adventure through the Indian River Lagoon, the most biologically diverse waterway in North America.

On land, take a leisurely stroll or bike ride through the Historic Jungle Trail. Crossing the entire Orchid Island neighborhood, this eight-mile sandy road along the shoreline of the Indian River provides a beautiful backdrop for palm tree hammocks and coastal wetlands. The trail’s end also leads to Pelican Island Sanctuary, the first wildlife refuge in the U.S. National Park Registry. Members also enjoy a West Indies-inspired Beach Club, championship Arnold Palmer golf course, eight Har-Tru tennis courts, two pickleball courts, a world-class fitness center, and a rejuvenating spa.

Meet Orchid Island’s Natural Residents

Alongside these natural wonders, residents of Orchid Island share this beautiful community with hundreds of species of Florida’s migratory birds and animals. Orchid Island has a long history of supporting the environment and surrounding wildlife and has been certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary since 2005. From white pelicans and roseate spoonbills flying overhead to otters and bottlenose dolphins playing in the lagoon, every turn within this private club community welcomes nature lovers to daily sightings of the natural neighbors that call Orchid Island home.

Nearby Gardens and Nature Sanctuaries

When it’s time to explore outside the gates of Orchid Island, ample natural sanctuaries spread throughout Florida’s Treasure Coast provide serene escapes. On the tip of two barrier islands, the Sebastian Inlet State Park and nearby beaches are not only a part of the Great Florida Birding Trail but welcome the largest assembly of nesting loggerhead sea turtles in the nation. The Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge is also nearby, comprising over 20.5 miles of beachfront and serving as a home for 140 species of birds and 350 species of fish. For those who prefer to enjoy nature in a refined way, the 18-acre McKee Botanical Gardens is a wild place of natural beauty just a short drive away. More than 10,000 colorful native plants and exotic species can be found alongside ponds and scenic streams dotted with one of Florida’s largest collections of water lilies. No matter where residents choose to go, they will surely find an adventure that creates lifelong memories.

River and Oceanfront Homes Surrounded By Nature’s Beauty

For those interested in learning more about Orchid Island’s nature-focused lifestyle, visiting OrchidIslandFL.com is an excellent way to get to know the community. With many homes located directly on the water, the magnificent oceanfront estates feature West Indies architectural designs, panoramic natural vistas, and the secluded privacy of living in a gated oceanfront enclave. Luxurious oceanfront low-rise condominium residences are spacious, bright homes with square footage in the mid-3,000 range. A wide array of single-family riverfront estate homes is also available, offering open Indian River views and many with private docks.

With demand for this highly sought-after community at an all-time high, inventory is limited at Orchid Island. To learn more about current listings or the picturesque lifestyle of this one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine or call 772.388.3888 for more information or to schedule a private community club tour.

From its secluded location to miles of natural beauty, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club offers more to Orchid Island Members than what initially meets the eye. This intimate community tucked on a barrier island in Vero Beach is known not only for its waterfront lifestyle, but also for its unpretentious spirit and unmatched hospitality. Neighbors smile and wave as you pass by, shoulders relax, and everyone enjoys the island lifestyle they lead. At the heart of it all, the Orchid Island Beach Club nurtures the spirit of neighbors becoming friends, with plentiful gathering spots and opportunities for all ages. Discover how this cherished lifestyle cultivates everlasting bonds between Orchid Island Members.

A Natural Sanctuary Awaits

Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Indian River to the west, Orchid Island is a natural sanctuary enjoyed by residents and wildlife alike. From majestic American white pelicans and roseate spoonbills to sea turtles and otters, Orchid Island is home to one of the most bio-diverse ecosystems in the world. Nearly a mile of pristine beachfront offers residents a peaceful retreat while spotting bottlenose dolphins swim along the coast. The riverside kayak launch provides direct access to the saltwater estuaries of the Indian River, where Members spend their days paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing around the area’s salt and freshwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks. Finally, for an adventure on land, the historic Jungle Trail crosses the entire Orchid Island neighborhood. This eight-mile sandy road along the breathtaking Indian River shoreline provides a beautiful backdrop for palm tree hammocks and coastal wetlands.

A Full Calendar of Events for Orchid Island Members

Orchid Island’s thoughtfully planned social calendar caters to the current season, offering fun activities for every member of the family. As the summer season approaches, The Club is ready to host many summer-themed events, including golf and tennis clinics for children, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day dinners, poolside barbecues, s’mores campfires, themed dinners, and more. Orchid Island Members are also known for their love of intellectual pursuits. The Beach Club showcases a series of guest speakers, educated professionals, and local government officials to speak on a variety of topics and offer guided discussions throughout the year.

Finding Those with Similar Passions

Orchid Island’s resort-style amenities provide plentiful opportunities for sports enthusiasts to meet those who follow their passions. For golf lovers, teeing off on the 18-hole Arnold Palmer championship golf course is second nature. This Audubon-certified sanctuary ensures every round is an adventure through a pristine Florida nature preserve.

Orchid Island’s racquet program is also top-notch, with eight Har-Tru tennis courts and two newly added pickleball courts that welcome all levels of play. A variety of programs for adults and for children, as well as individual instruction from pros, can help lift any Member’s game to a new level while also meeting someone new. For those who prefer indoor activities, the on-site Fitness Center provides a Pilates studio, yoga room, spin room, and more than 35 weekly group classes to help Members look and feel their best.

An Artisan’s Community

Orchid Island Members are also known for following their passions and pursuing special-interest clubs that form both social and intellectual connections. Painters, sculptors, photographers, and more share their world-class talents through the Art Club. The annual Celebration of Creativity, a Member art show, is held each Spring to display the work of the Club’s renowned artists. Stirring paintings, hand-made pottery, and jewelry are only a glimpse of the striking artwork on display.

From book and movie lovers to sports shooters and gardeners, numerous other “Clubs within the Club” ensures every Member finds a group to share their passions with. For maritime enthusiasts, the Orchid Island Yacht Club hosts numerous waterside events and excursions annually, both on land and at sea. Members are also highly involved within the surrounding community, helping some of the over 190 charities within Indian River County.

Dining Options for Every Occasion

Variety is the spice of life, and Orchid Island’s three dining venues provide plentiful options for every palate and occasion. The Pool Grille and Turtle Bar offer an easygoing setting where friends can come together, bonding over burgers and cocktails while watching dolphins swim along the Atlantic coastline. The “19th hole” Golf Club offers a casual fare of salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads in a variety of atmospheres, from the main dining room to an extended patio overlooking grand views of the fairways. Finally, the Beach Club’s elegant dining venue is home to five-star creations that include everything from healthy selections to innovative cuisine and decadent dishes. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Beach Club also hosts numerous wine events and specialty dinners that create a welcoming atmosphere for all.

One Family – One Orchid Island Membership

Orchid Island also offers the perfect balance of developing new and enduring friendships while also creating cherished memories with loved ones, traveling from near or far. Orchid Island’s multi-generational membership ensures every member of the family can be a Member of the Club under a single membership. No “legacy” specials or sub-memberships are required. Families, children, and grandchildren all have the same opportunity to dine at the restaurants, use the Club’s amenities, and attend the many social events throughout the year. Thanks to this unique feature, residents can share the unparalleled Orchid Island lifestyle and focus on what matters most – spending time with their families.

An Enviable Florida Waterfront Lifestyle

No matter what interests a Member has, every Orchid Island Member has one thing in common: they all love the lifestyle. Orchid Island is a nature lover’s haven with almost a mile of secluded beach and a riverside kayak launch providing direct access to the saltwater estuaries of the Indian River. The West Indies-style Beach Club and full-service spa are also waiting to be enjoyed. This charming seaside community, however, is filled with even more to discover outside the gates. Downtown Vero Beach and Ocean Drive are full of arts and culture, casual and fine dining, boutique shopping, and more.

With demand for this highly sought-after community at an all-time high, inventory is limited at Orchid Island. To learn more about this picturesque, one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine. Visit OrchidIslandFL.com or call 772.388.3888 for more information or to schedule a private community club tour.

Perfectly situated between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is the true hidden gem along Florida’s Treasure Coast. Surrounded by the sea and wrapped in coastal elegance, this community is the ideal setting for residents who appreciate a private country club lifestyle in the heart of a spectacular natural destination. Immerse yourself in the beautiful world of Orchid Island.

A Pristine Beachfront Awaits

The white sand of Orchid Island’s private beach stretches for almost a mile along the Atlantic Ocean. Here, the Orchid Island Golf Beach Club is the heart of the community, serving as a social hub for friends and families. Members can relax beneath the sunshine at Orchid Island’s tropical seaside pool or enjoy food and drinks within the three dining venues.

Championship Arnold Palmer Golf

Golf lovers of all levels enjoy the Audubon-certified, 18-hole championship golf course. This Arnold Palmer-designed course offers a challenge for golfers of all skill levels and a chance to experience the beautiful habitat and wildlife that makes the course so unique.

Embark on a Kayak Adventure

Orchid Island’s riverside kayak launch provides direct access to the saltwater estuaries of the Indian River. Members love to spend their days paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and boating around the area’s salt and freshwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks.

Orchid Island’s Natural Neighbors

With a beautiful habitat to call home, Orchid Island has a long history of supporting the environment and the surrounding wildlife. From majestic American white pelicans and roseate spoonbills to sea turtles and otters, Orchid Island is home to one of the most bio-diverse ecosystems in the world.

Delectable Dining for Every Occasion

Whether it’s morning, noon, or night, residents at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club can find something delicious within the three dining options. Stop by the Pool Grille and Turtle Bar for a poolside cocktail, dine at the bar at the Orchid Island Golf Club, or indulge in an elegant culinary experience at the Beach Club. Behind it all, Executive Chef Sozio and his team cultivate a delicious experience for every palate.

Unmatched Fitness Facilities

Fitness is a way of life at Orchid Island, and the Tennis & Fitness Center makes that easy. State-of-the-art machines and more than 35 group exercise classes keep residents fit and motivated to reach their goals. Eight Har-Tru tennis courts and two new pickleball courts provide a variety of events for all skill levels, including round robins, clinics, weekly drills, and tournaments.

Get Out and Explore

The charming seaside lifestyle does not stop at the gates of Orchid Island. Downtown Vero Beach and Ocean Drive are full of scenic destinations, arts and culture, casual and fine dining, and boutique shopping waiting for residents to explore.

For those interested in learning more about this picturesque, one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine. This intriguing publication tells the story of the Vero Beach area and how nature coexists with the residents. If you’re in the area, schedule a visit to the Orchid Island Realty office for a community club tour. Visit OrchidIslandFL.com or call 772.388.3888 for more information.

Ask any resident Member about life at Orchid Island, and they will start with a smile. Here, a wide array of planned activities quickly become wonderful memories, and the 2021 holiday season was one of the community’s best. Nestled between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is a private coastal sanctuary where family and friends celebrate together. Whether it’s a special occasion or just daily life, a robust event calendar makes every generation feel at home amongst friends from the moment they arrive.

Dockside Dancing

The Orchid Island Yacht Club kicked off the holiday season in high seas style with their annual Christmas Cocktail Party. The private event overlooked the Indian River, complete with twinkling lights, glowing candles, and holiday décor. The holiday spirit was evident in the specialty cocktails and an extraordinary catering menu. Members enjoyed reconnecting with old friends, creating new bonds, and dancing the night away.

The Joy of Giving Back

Orchid Island Members have passionate involvement in the surrounding community and love to spread that holiday cheer to the surrounding area. Once again this year, Members provided scores of Christmas gifts to the Operation Hope Toy Drive, all of which were donated to the children of Fellsmere. After bringing their gifts to the Beach Club, residents broke bread together while enjoying Chef Chris Sozio’s popular steakhouse dinner.

Junior Golf and Tennis Clinics

With so many families and friends gathering at Orchid Island for the holidays, the Club staff puts together fun activities to enjoy during their winter break. The Club hosted weekday golf and tennis clinics open to all children of all ages. These fun-filled clinics focused on introducing them to new sports or improving their individual skills.

Awaiting Santa’s Arrival

As anticipation grew for the arrival of the man in the red suit, many families gathered for a traditional holiday dinner. Happy to be spending time together again, Christmas Eve dinners were hosted at both the Beach Club and Golf Club. Delicious holiday menus were served with all the favorite holiday flavors and decadent desserts, creating a recipe for cherished memories for everyone in attendance.

Poolside Pizza and S’mores

No one was dreaming of a white Christmas on Florida’s Treasure Coast but toasting marshmallows over the fire was a different story. Orchid Island also hosted numerous family fun events including the popular poolside pizza and s’mores party. Holiday trivia and burgers and bingo also attracted a great turnout.

The Holiday Spirit Doesn’t End

Members at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club appreciate the special nature of life within the community. Although the holidays are a great time to gather, throughout the year they often return to enjoy even more time together. The private Club’s innovative Family Membership structure makes it convenient for visiting children and grandchildren to use the Club amenities with separate access to reservations and billing, under one membership.

Orchid Island is also a nature lover’s haven with more than a mile of secluded beach and a riverside kayak launch providing direct access to the saltwater estuaries of the Indian River. The West Indies style Beach Club, championship Arnold Palmer golf courseeight Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball courts, a world-class fitness center, and spa are also waiting to be enjoyed. This charming seaside community, however, is filled with even more to discover outside the gates. Downtown Vero Beach and Ocean Drive are full of arts and culture, casual and fine dining, and boutique shopping waiting for residents to explore.

There are just 376 residences within the gated community, all featuring West Indies-inspired architecture. Luxury residential properties range from $1 Million to over $8 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottages, or oceanfront condominiums and homes. Interested future Members are encouraged to stay updated by registering online or viewing the full list of current real estate listings.

For those interested in learning more about this one-of-a-kind private club community, request a complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine This intriguing publication tells the story of the Vero Beach area and how nature coexists with the residents. If you’re in the area, schedule a visit to the Orchid Island Realty office for a community and club tour. Call 772.388.3888 for more information or visit OrchidIslandFL.com.