Orchid Island Will Host Critically Acclaimed Pianist, Drew Petersen On December 5
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Read Full Article featured in Broadway World, written by A.A Cristi.

Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club will host the Vero Friends of the Atlantic Classical Orchestra’s “An Intimate Evening of Beautiful Piano Music” annual benefit concert on December 5, from 4:30–7p.m. This year’s program, entitled “Invitation to Dance,” spotlights virtuoso pianist Drew Petersen.

Known for his intense and commanding performances, the New Jersey native became a piano prodigy at the age of five and graduated from Harvard University when he turned nineteen.

The sought-after soloist, recitalist, and chamber musician whose repertoire ranges from Johann Sebastian Bach to American pianist Judith Lang Zaimont, is an award-winning artist, as well. In 2018, Petersen was honored with the Avery Fisher Career Grant and, in 2017, the American Pianists Award and Christel DeHaan Classical Fellowship.

Mr. Petersen will perform lauded works by Carl Maria von Weber, Frédéric Chopin, and others. Afterwards, he and Atlantic Classical Orchestra’s music director David Amado will host an après-concert reception with plein air cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

Tickets are $125 per person. Seating is limited. To read the full article, click here.

Orchid Island lies on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River, one of the most diverse ecosystems in North America. Orchid Island nature lovers enjoy getting up close and personal to tropical flora and fauna and wildlife living amongst the area. There are plenty of opportunities to explore the natural surroundings within Orchid Island, whether by cycling, kayaking, walks on the Jungle Trail, or strolling the beach. Here’s your chance to discover all the beauty that surrounds Orchid Island.

Secluded Florida Beaches

With over a mile of pristine beach, Orchid Island residents enjoy Florida’s renowned coastline in peace and tranquility. Spend the day paddleboarding or fishing. Maybe take a sunrise walk on the white sand beach or watch the surfers sliding along the rolling, turquoise waves. The captivating wildlife is a part of the community and commonplace in this magical setting. Beneath the surface, Vero Beach is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba, as this region is home to colorful marine life. At night, the sea turtles return to build their nests on these coveted beaches. During June and July, there are scheduled sea turtle walks to experience this spectacle firsthand.

sea turtle on the vero beach sand near orchid island

The Intracoastal Waterway

The west side of Orchid Island borders the mangrove-lined Indian River Lagoon. This river is a saltwater estuary teeming with native Florida species. To truly experience the variety of the ecosystem, many residents enjoy kayaking through the myriad of slews and cuts along the shoreline. Orchid Island’s Kayak Cove allows residents easy access to the diverse river and waterways from a private dock accessible by golf cart. Kayaks are readily available to travel through tropical mangrove forests and admire the untouched scenery. Have your camera ready as manatees, porpoises, and a wide variety of waterfowl are always active throughout the day.

half under water photo of manatee at round island in vero beach

An Audubon Sanctuary

Orchid Island is in the center of a lush natural landscape and engulfed with the beauty of its unique barrier island location. Lush tropical flora and fauna line the streetscapes and fairways of this private golf & beach club sanctuary. Orchid Island is a certified Audubon sanctuary, protecting birds of all species and their natural habitats. From the rare white pelicans or pink roseate spoonbills to the abundant ibis, great blue heron, and elegant white egrets – the feathered residents outnumber the land-lovers by far. Delightful wildlife of the wingless kind may come to say hello, too, including playful otters, gopher tortoises, and other native species.

orchid island nature, birds sitting an flying over the water

Orchid Island is the ideal setting for residents who appreciate a private country club lifestyle in the heart of such spectacular Florida beauty. The gated community prioritizes wildlife preservation, and its members celebrate their surroundings through the fine arts and photography. The Club’s intimate surroundings create the perfect environment for our Members and natural neighbors to thrive together. Between the ocean, the river, and perfectly manicured grounds of the community, Orchid Island is an ideal address for nature lovers.

Members are luckier still to call this amazing place home. This private community is committed to providing a level of service that stands out from the rest. Golfing here is unparalleled, as the Arnold Palmer 18-hole course is not only renowned among courses but holds an Audubon Certified Sanctuary status for its commitment to natural preservation. The recently renovated Beach Club serves as a gathering place for families and friends to reunite. Private club events and holidays are held in the dining room, and families enjoy fun in the sun along the Atlantic Ocean.

To learn more about this unique Club community, request the 2021 edition of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here. The pages of the magazine also feature details on the Vero Beach area, including its rich arts and culture scene and nearby shopping and dining. If you’re planning a trip to the area, contact the Orchid Island Realty Office to schedule a private tour. Call 772.388.3888 for more information or visit OrchidIslandFL.com.

Luxury residential properties are in high demand and are selling very quickly. Homes in the community range from the $1 million to over $8 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, golf cottages, and luxury oceanfront condominiums. Here’s a full list of currently available real estate listings at Orchid Island. To stay updated on new listings, register online to receive ongoing real estate updates and the community’s quarterly e-newsletter.

Over the past few months, many of us have been reevaluating what we value most in life. Our homes, beautiful surroundings, and above all, our health. These events have also made us appreciate the beauty surrounding us – the architecture, design, and surroundings of our homes. Orchid Island offers homeowners a private club community in a pristine natural environment, and there are many reasons why so many homebuyers chose to live here. Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, this cherished club community offers residents over a mile of private beachfront and the community is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River. With its gorgeous natural location, West-Indies style homes, and resort-style amenities, it’s easy to see why. Take a look at five favorite outdoor things to do on Orchid Island:

1. The Beach.

The lovely Treasure Coast shines as one of the most pristine shorelines on the Atlantic coast. Orchid Island’s members enjoy a one-mile stretch of beach that’s very secluded. The private oceanfront Beach Club offers a relaxing retreat that rivals the world’s top resorts. Enjoy culinary delicacies, or sip a tropical drink with friends. Orchid Island also has oceanfront condominiums and estate homes that are some of the finest in Florida.

2. Private Championship Golf

Orchid Island is a championship golf community (and it’s a stone’s throw from the ocean). The renown Arnold Palmer-designed championship course provides a challenging experience that never disappoints, yet very playable for members of all skill levels. Golfers revel in the myriad of wildlife on the course. You never know what you’ll encounter.

3. Coastline Explorations.

Orchid Island borders the Intracoastal Waterway, making it an ideal place for paddle boarding and kayaking. Explore this coast from a water perspective. A new kayak pier was just completed so members can launch right from the neighborhood. Enjoy the vistas and sounds of the seabirds, and you might even see manatees or a dolphin or two.

4. Nature Sanctuary.

Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is a Certified Audubon Sanctuary with one of the most bio-diverse ecosystems in the world, and the club remains committed to preserving its beauty. This coast is home to more than 1,500 wildlife species, including manatees, otters, ospreys, white pelicans, roseate spoonbill, and leatherback turtles. At Orchid Beach, humans and wildlife exist in complete harmony, making it the destination to visit.

5. Tennis.

Orchid Island features eight Har-Tru courts, including an exhibition court, for players of all levels. Get professional instruction from our talented tennis coaches, meet new friends, and enjoy year-round exciting sports, including pickleball. There are also special clinics and fun monthly tournaments.

Members of Orchid Island are even luckier still to call this amazing place home. This private community is committed to providing a level of service that stands out from the rest. The
architecturally distinct Beach Club serves as a gathering place. Private club events and holidays are held in the dining room, overlooking the mesmerizing Atlantic Ocean. In addition to the Beach Club, a centrally-located golf clubhouse is an acclaimed dining venue within the community and also hosts a variety of Club activities.

To learn more about Orchid Island and the Treasure Coast, request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here. If you’re in the area, call 772. 388.3888 to schedule a visit. Luxury residential properties range from the $700s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums. For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, visit OrchidIslandFL.com.

Many of us have found a new way to appreciate life and reflect on our home and current surroundings. As the pandemic starts to slow down, real estate in Florida is in higher demand more than ever for its beautiful sunshine, beaches, nature, and more. With so many looking to relocate to where they can enjoy the outdoors and stay healthy, Orchid Island has become a choice for so many homebuyers with its pristine natural location, beautiful homes, and resort-style amenities. Take a look at these 6 reasons why people are choosing Orchid Island:

1. Beachfront Escape
The Treasure Coast is known as one of the best coastlines in Florida, and Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club’s Members have a one-mile stretch just to themselves. With plenty of room to take a stroll, fish, or relax, they enjoy indulging in this secluded sanctuary whenever they feel like it from their spectacular, private oceanfront Beach Club, referred to as “the Gem.” Orchid Island also has oceanfront residences and condominiums representing some of the best oceanfront real estate in Vero Beach.

2. Private Championship Golf
As one of Florida’s very few golf courses within an earshot away from the ocean, Orchid Island is a cherished golf community. Members appreciate the playability of the Arnold Palmer designed course because no matter what tee box or how often they step out on the green, they relish in the experience. Another fantastic attribute when playing golf at Orchid Island is the wildlife. It is not uncommon to spot all sorts of wildlife while playing the course, making it a great place to interact with both human and natural neighbors.

3. Nature Sanctuary
Since 2005, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is a Certified Audubon Sanctuary with one of the most bio-diverse ecosystems in the world, and they are committed to ensuring that its ecological footprint is as small as possible. The area is home to more than 1,500 wildlife species, including Manatees, Otters, Ospreys, White Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbill, and Leatherback Turtles. Here, humans and wildlife live together in total harmony, making it an extraordinary place like no other.

4. Healthy Living
Fitness is a way of life at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club. With over 11,000 sq. ft of space dedicated to wellness and fitness, there’s something for every member. From state-of-the-art machines to more than 35 group exercise classes to a Pilates studio, yoga and spinning room, as well as private areas for stretching and cool-down exercises, the Club makes it easy to stay in shape.

5. Tennis
Eight Har-Tru courts – including one exhibition court, tells you that tennis at Orchid Island is outstanding for players of all levels. A variety of different programs and individual instruction from professionals are available for adults and children. Members have fun, meet new friends, and improve their skills all at the same time through tennis events such as round robins, clinics, and weekly drills.

6. Spa Services
What better way to relax after an active day than getting an amazing massage or one of the many available spa treatments? Situated by the pool at the Beach Club, Orchid Island’s Spa offers a comprehensive array of spa services such as rejuvenating facials, exfoliating body treatments, and deep tissue massage by experienced, professional staff. Orchid Island’s Spa is a perfect destination for members to heal, balance, restore, and replenish their bodies for lasting results and improved appearance.

Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is in the heart of it all. Members and residents here enjoy all of this and so much more, including the convenience of a golf cart lifestyle. Traveling the community via golf cart makes getting to any of the amenities a fun and enjoyable experience, including the West Indies, styled private Beach Club, which overlooks a private beach just for residents and their families to take pleasure in.

In addition to the above, there’s no doubt that Resident Members appreciate the tax-friendly State of Florida. With no income tax or wealth tax, owning a home at Orchid Island has benefits beyond its unparalleled lifestyle.

Orchid Island Realty has many beautiful homes currently available from elegant waterfront homes, oceanfront condominiums, exquisite West-Indies style homes, to unbuilt land waiting for you to create your dream home. The options to find your perfect escape are endless at Orchid Island. Be sure to call our Sales Team at 772.388.3888 to learn about our Discovery Stay or visit OrchidIslandFL.com for more information. If you are in the area, call the office to schedule a property tour so you can see firsthand the community’s beauty.

Luxury residential properties range from the $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottages, or oceanfront condominiums. For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, visit OrchidIslandRealty.com.

Intrigued by this one-of-a-kind destination? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here to learn more about this amazing community and how the Vero Beach area embraces its natural wonderland.

Social distancing has recently changed the way we spend time and share space with each other. While us humans are confined to our homes and have been avoiding unnecessary social gatherings, nature persists, blissfully going about everyday life. In many parts of Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club, a hidden gem for both wildlife and humans, our natural neighbors are spending their time in the unique natural areas within the community.

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is a natural sanctuary with one of the most bio-diverse ecosystems in the world. The area is home to more than 1,500 wildlife species, and the human footprint on the earth is very small here.

While our species is in a temporary lockdown, wildlife has filled the empty spaces. Manatees are gathering on the coast with the salt and freshwater marshes, pine Flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks. While the White Pelicans, Ospreys, and Rosette Spoonbills are gathering in large groups, feeding on the water’s surface, and soaring high in the sky. Residents here have even noticed these White Pelicans staying longer in the area.

On the private beach, turtles, including the endangered leatherback turtles, are thriving and laying their eggs. Meanwhile, otters are gamboling on land and splashing into lakes on the golf course.

From the pristine beaches to beautiful golf courses, nature is showcasing its beauty more than ever. In some other areas of the world, nature is even healing and getting a much-needed breather from humankind’s invasion. While the current situation has left us with many emotions, it has also taught us that it is important to preserve a healthy ecosystem where humans and wildlife live together in total harmony.

Orchid Island works hard to preserve a way of life not only for the natural neighbors who live in the area but for the people who live here as well. Members and residents enjoy the convenience of a golf cart lifestyle. Traveling the community via golf cart makes getting to any of the amenities a fun and enjoyable experience, including the West Indies, styled private Beach Club, which overlooks a private beach just for residents and their families to take pleasure in.

This private community is committed to providing an extraordinary level of service. Golf here is unparalleled, as the Arnold Palmer-designed 18-hole course is not only revered as one of the best in the region but also considered a picturesque nature walk throughout this unique habitat.

Luxury residential properties range from the $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums.
For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, visit OrchidIslandRealty.com.

Intrigued by this private golf and oceanfront club lifestyle? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here to learn more about this amazing community and how the Vero Beach area embraces its natural wonderland.

If you’re in the area, stop by the Orchid Island Realty office and see the community’s beauty for yourself. Call 772. 388.3888 to schedule a private appointment or visit OrchidIslandFL.com for more information.

With many Americans currently sheltering in place, what better place to do just that than Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club? As the world continues to change around us, we find ourselves asking the question, “Is this where I want to be?” Orchid Island is making the safety and needs of its membership the top priority. Here are a few of the ways the Club is helping to keep its members engaged and connected without them having to leave the comfort of their homes:

Virtual Photo Album

The Club has facilitated a virtual photo album where members can submit photos of what they’ve been up to. It is shared throughout the membership and has been a great way for everyone to stay connected. It’s also been helpful to share ideas as to what everyone is doing to stay occupied during this time.

Club Fitness

Looking to stay active? Orchid Island has created a private Facebook Group where Denise Duda, Director of Fitness and Micki Weilbaker, Manager of Fitness teaches virtual classes. Members have been able to stay healthy and get moving without leaving their homes.

Tennis & Golf Pop Up Pro Shop

Still, wanting to purchase items from the Tennis & Golf Pro Shop? Members are able to join a private Facebook page, purchase items virtually, and pick them up curbside. Getting new equipment has never been so easy, and it’s a great way to be prepared for the courts or the greens when life returns to normal.

Take Out

For members who have been craving their favorite Orchid Island menu items, take out is available during lunch and dinner. They never have to leave the gates to get a delicious meal.

<h2Chef’s Mini Market

Orchid Island also has its very own Chef’s Mini Market. This is an easy access, one-stop-shop where members can virtually place an order and it will be available for pick up the next day. This saves members a trip out to the grocery store. The Mini Market even has toilet paper and paper towels!

<h2Golf

With precautionary measures in place, members at Orchid Island are still able to enjoy the Arnold Palmer-designed 18-hole course. Flags and bunker rakes have been removed and carts are limited to one member each. Players are able to get outdoors, enjoy the fresh air, and keep their game up to par.

Community Support

Due to the generosity of the Members of the Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club, Executive Chef Chris Sozio and his culinary team were able to prepare delicious meals for the Lab Department at the Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital. Chef Sozio and Orchid Island General Manager, Rob Tench delivered the meals to Laboratory Operations Manager, Frances Herndon, and Blood Bank Supervisor, Chris Hendrickson. “We can’t say thank you enough to all the medical professionals and those out on the front lines every day for all they are doing! It was such an honor to deliver these meals!” shared Chef Sozio.

In addition to these unique offerings, Orchid Island has also adapted to the current situation in a few other ways. The Chef has added an additional 16 sanitizing units throughout the Golf Club, Beach Club, Tennis & Fitness Center, and Administrative Facilities. Disinfectant spray bottles have also been distributed throughout the club to members and employees. What’s more, members are still able to enjoy the one-mile of private beach, as long as they are practicing social distancing.

As times are changing, Orchid Island continues to make improvements to best fit its members’ health and needs. While it is an unusual time in history, members at Orchid Island are able to relax and enjoy the time spent with family a little easier.

Indian River County is a pristine nature sanctuary and a water wonderland. Here, there’s plenty of room for residents to spread out and enjoy Mother Nature’s bounty. When it comes to the COVID19 spread in the area, the Indian River is currently one of the safest counties in the state with just 85 cases and only 23 hospitalizations in total (as of April 16th).

It sure makes you think where you want to be when life returns to normal. For those who want to get close to nature and enjoy the creature comforts of home, the Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club amenities are second to none. Orchid Island works hard to preserve a way of life for, not only the natural neighbors who live on the Treasure Coast but the residents as well. Members and residents also enjoy the one-mile of private beach access and what is even better, Orchid Island spans from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian River.

This private community is committed to providing a level of service that stands out from the rest, even under normal circumstances. Golfing here is unparalleled, as the Arnold Palmer-designed, 18-hole course is not only renowned among courses but also holds an Audubon Certified Sanctuary status for its commitment to natural preservation.

Love the Vero Beach location? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here to learn more about the Vero Beach area and how nature coexists with the residents.

If you’re in the area, stop by the Orchid Island Sales Center and see the community’s beauty for yourself. Call 772. 388.3888 for more information or visit OrchidIslandFL.com.

Luxury residential properties range from the $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums. For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, visit our real estate page.

Orchid Island is a place of true beauty and natural wonder. Perfectly situated between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is a hidden mecca for local wildlife. A variety of natural neighbors call this place home and the members here are committed to protecting the area’s natural beauty. From its status as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary to its pristine private shore, the Club recognizes that its animal neighbors, like turtles, white pelicans, and otters, are as much part of the community as the residents themselves.

One reason why Orchid Island has so many animal visitors is because of its location. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River, it boasts a mile of private beach and it’s not uncommon to see dolphins swimming in the clear greenish-blue water or sandpipers scouring along while strolling the shoreline. Come May through October, many loggerhead turtles call this beach home and lay their eggs as it’s one of the best places in the world for turtle hatchlings.

The Indian River is known as one of the most bio-diverse ecosystems in the world and this natural neighborhood is home to many different species of fish, birds and so much more. From the red mangroves that hug the shoreline to the seagrass beds that lie under the surface, the wildlife here is unmatched. Rare white pelicans and rosette spoonbills are known to call this place home as well as friendly manatees.

And not to be left out, the golf course at Orchid Island is also home to many varieties of wildlife. From playful otters to birds such as the white pelicans and ospreys, members here enjoy the daily sightings of the unique wildlife. The Club has also installed specialty bird boxes throughout the course and many new “members” are born here each year – including screech owls.

Orchid Island works hard to preserve a way of life not only for the natural neighbors who live in the area but for the people who live here as well. Members and residents enjoy the convenience of a golf cart lifestyle. Traveling the community via golf cart makes getting to any of the amenities a fun and enjoyable experience, including the West Indies, styled private Beach Club, which overlooks a private beach just for residents and their families to take pleasure in.

This private community is committed to providing an extraordinary level of service. Golf here is unparalleled, as the Arnold Palmer-designed, 18-hole course is not only revered as one of the best in the region but also considered a picturesque nature walk throughout this unique habitat.

Luxury residential properties range from the $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums.

For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, visit OrchidIslandRealty.com.

Intrigued by this one-of-a-kind destination? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here to learn more about this amazing community and how the Vero Beach area embraces its natural wonderland.

If you’re in the area, stop by the Orchid Island Realty office and see the community’s beauty for yourself. Call 772. 388.3888 to schedule a private appointment or visit OrchidIslandFL.com for more information.

Vero Beach can, at times, feel far away from the constraints of modern-day society. And that’s not a bad thing. There’s less traffic, no towering buildings interrupting the view and miles of gorgeous beaches. But just because you’re far from city life doesn’t mean that you have to be far from city culture. Riverside Theatre, located in Riverside Park, is proof of exactly that.

First constructed in 1973, this theatre has worn many hats as the home of the Vero Beach Theatre Guild, a local community theatre group, and others. Since then, Riverside Theatre has consistently provided the Vero Beach area with live acts, children’s camps and classes and various lecture series. This theatre holds many accolades – it is one of the few theatres in Florida to host a free-standing children’s theatre, is the area’s only not-for-profit theatre and produces all of its events in-house.

It’s because of its illustrious past that Riverside Theatre works to provide the most cutting-edge acts in theatre, live music, and entertainment. Their 2019-2020 season brings top-notch performances and actors right here to the Vero area.

Riverside Park is the perfect setting for a night out. The beautiful location, the plethora of dining options, and the live music and entertainment makes it a great date spot! Before the show, many couples head to the Oak Trees outside the theatre for a refreshment from the two bars while they listen to live music by local bands. When the doors open, they’re treated to some of the best acts in the industry.

In Vero Beach, you don’t have to travel far to get the best of what you’re searching for. Locals supply their own luxury shopping with boutiques. Riverside Theatre provides live entertainment. Residents are even only minutes away from the beachfront, no matter where they live. This charming community is close to the best the area has to offer, while also enjoying seclusion and space.

Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is in the heart of it all. Members and residents here enjoy all of this and so much more, including the convenience of a golf cart lifestyle. Traveling the community via golf cart makes getting to any of the amenities a fun and enjoyable experience, including the West Indies, styled private Beach Club, which overlooks a private beach just for residents and their families to take pleasure in.

This private community is committed to providing an extraordinary level of service. Golf here is unparalleled, as the Arnold Palmer-designed, 18-hole course is not only revered as one of the best in the region but also considered a picturesque nature walk throughout this unique habitat.

Luxury residential properties range from the $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums.

For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, visit OrchidIslandRealty.com.

Intrigued by this one-of-a-kind destination? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here to learn more about this amazing community and how the Vero Beach area embraces its natural wonderland.

If you’re in the area, stop by the Orchid Island Realty office and see the community’s beauty for yourself. Call 772. 388.3888 to schedule a private appointment or visit OrchidIslandFL.com for more information.

Southern Living recently posted about the unique attributes of Vero Beach and what makes it so special, calling it “an upscale Florida town that is funky at heart.” and the Hamptons of Florida.

See what else they had to say from their January 2020 article below:

It’s a low-key tropical escape for millionaires (and billionaires) who want to relax out of the spotlight of Palm Beach and Miami to the south. This is where celebs can stroll the public boardwalk and no one makes a fuss. It’s been called the Hamptons of Florida, home to upmarket boutiques, wine bars, and spas.

It’s also home to Bibble Irvin. You can find the sixty-something surfer and artist at Waldo’s Restaurant & Bar, a beloved establishment constructed of driftwood smack-dab in the center of Vero. He’ll be offering handwoven palm-frond hats for sale while talking over the news of the day with local citrus farmers and real estate developers alike. Quirky, outspoken, and utterly Floridian, Irvin is as much Vero Beach as the latest tycoon to get hooked on its unique blend of sophistication and authentic, flip-flop fun. That’s what makes this delightful discovery feel like home to all manner of travelers—everyone here ends up at the funky heart of Vero Beach.

And everything feels so close and interrelated. Base your days at the indulgence-worthy digs of the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa—complete with an intimate pool (and beach bar), a serene spa, and lounger-dotted pale sands with polite attendants ready to get you all set with sporty toys to play in the sea. But then you can slip on your sandals and stroll south into shopping-centric Vero, mining fresh shift dresses from Lilly Pulitzer or bright board shorts from Australian brand Tom & Teddy. You can feel very right now, capping off your hunting and gathering with a trip to the Vero Beach Museum of Art and dipping into Cuban food and upscale cocktails at Gloria Estefan’s chic Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa.

That would all be divine, but just as easily, you can swing onto the mainland side of Vero Beach and visit a fourth-generation citrus farm such as Schacht Groves, where they’re harvesting and squeezing juices before your eyes. As you stroll among the trees and taste just how much better Indian River County citrus tastes than any other, you’ll appreciate how this agricultural juggernaut rose to prominence in the mid-1900s and never looked back. Then, keeping with the botanical mood, dive into what feels like the verdant heart of Vero Beach, the resplendent McKee Botanical Garden. Built-in 1932 by Arthur G. McKee and visionary pioneer Waldo E. Sexton on acres of tropical hammock as the McKee Jungle Gardens (once home to exotic animals such as chimpanzees), this place maintains the labyrinthine magic of the original conceit and feels like a true Florida wonderland.

Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is in the heart of it all. Members and residents here enjoy all of this and so much more, including the convenience of a golf cart lifestyle. Traveling the community via golf cart makes getting to any of the amenities a fun and enjoyable experience, including the West Indies, styled private Beach Club, which overlooks a private beach just for residents and their families to take pleasure in.

This private community is committed to providing an extraordinary level of service. Golf here is unparalleled, as the Arnold Palmer designed, 18-hole course is not only revered as one of the best in the region but also considered a picturesque nature walk throughout this unique habitat.

Luxury residential properties range from the $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums.

For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, visit OrchidIslandRealty.com.

Intrigued by this one-of-a-kind destination? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine here to learn more about this amazing community and how the Vero Beach area embraces its natural wonderland.

If you’re in the area, stop by the Orchid Island Realty office and see the community’s beauty for yourself. Call 772. 388.3888 to schedule a private appointment or visit OrchidIslandFL.com for more information.