Legendary golfer Arnold Palmer believed that golf is a game that transcends the physical, enriching the mind and fostering a sense of unity. This concept has become the core belief of his barrier island course at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club. Located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, the course champions the beauty of its ocean-to-river habitat while embracing players of all backgrounds. Yet, what truly makes Orchid Island exceptional is the bonds forged on its greens. From the serenity of sunrise tee-offs to shared laughter over refreshing drinks at the clubhouse, Orchid Island is centered on nurturing genuine, lasting relationships. Over the past year, the private club community has procured input from many Members to create a golf video that captures this essence and more. Watch below to see their personal insights into the course’s inspiring surroundings and engaged lifestyle.
Arnold Palmer’s Barrier Island Course
Orchid Island’s 18-hole championship golf course is the beloved centerpiece of the community. More than a course, it embodies architect Arnold Palmer’s vision to nurture a lifelong love for golf while uniting players across generations. The result was a par 72 course spanning 4,231 to 7,226 yards, with nine tee combinations that welcome and challenge golfers of all skill levels. The course has even hosted prestigious tournaments like the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship. Beyond the greens, training and practice facilities, including a double-sided driving range and practice bunkers, support every player’s growth. A vibrant event calendar ensures the spirit of togetherness is woven into every swing.
Members agree that the course’s design and setting is one of a kind. “It’s a beautiful course that’s always in great shape,” shared Member Cathy Torrey. “It’s a different course every day, and everything golfers love about a good, challenging golf course.”
Member Georgie Hutton added, “I don’t think there’s a prettier golf course out there. I don’t think you’ll find a course that’s better maintained from the standpoint of the player.”
The King’s Challenge Unveiled
Following course renovations this past summer and in honor of Arnold Palmer’s enduring legacy and his design, Orchid Island recently renamed the golf course’s final three holes “The King’s Challenge.” Players will be welcomed to the 16th tee with a plaque commemorating Arnold Palmer’s signature touch. According to Director of Golf David Champagne, “Holes 16 and 17 are challenging par fours, entirely surrounded by water. Hole 18 is a picturesque par five, as Arnold Palmer believed that a well-designed par five makes a great finishing hole. It has a beautiful rock wall bordering the greens and you’ll see plenty of white pelicans on the pond in the winter.”
A Stunning Environment at the Edge of the Tropics
Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Indian River Lagoon to the west, Orchid Island’s pristine location is graced with a unique mix of flora and foliage that adds to the special nature of the community. From coconut palms and stunning beaches to ancient oak hammocks, the area’s environmental diversity gives it much of its natural appeal. Orchid Island takes pride in its commitment to preserving this environment, and has been recognized as an Audubon Certified Sanctuary since 2005.
Alongside these natural wonders, the community also provides sanctuary to hundreds of species of wildlife. Member Greg Clark cherishes spotting them all while on the golf course. “The wildlife you see is neat,” shared Clark. “We’ve got the white pelicans that are here in the winter. You’ll spot the ospreys swooping down to grab their lunch out of the ponds. Occasionally, an eagle shows up here and there. It certainly adds a diversion from your golf game.”
Dining Venues That Celebrate Local Flavors
Foodies are also rewarded with Orchid Island’s three coastally-inspired dining venues. Bond over burgers and tropical libations while enjoying the ocean breeze at the Pool Grille and Turtle Bar. The 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 oceanfront dining venue is home to innovative five-star cuisines that are sure to please any palate.
Behind it all, Executive Chef Chris Sozio is leading the way in elevating the Club’s daily menus with his farm-to-table philosophy. “For me, the reward is making the Members happy with our food,” said Sozio. “Writing our menus daily gives us the ability to serve the freshest fish and seafood that the fishermen are catching, while the fresh produce that the local farmers are harvesting adds a nice variety.”
Inspired Healthy Living
Orchid Island’s racquet program and fitness facilities ensure Members find the perfect way to stay fit. Eight Har-Tru tennis courts and two newly added pickleball courts welcome all levels of play. A variety of programs for adults and 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, and more than 35 weekly group classes to help Members look and feel their best.
Director of Racquet Sports Kainoa Rosa has seen firsthand the welcoming nature of Members. “I had known that the previous director was here for 25 years. said Rosa. “Any time you have an employee that’s somewhere for that long, especially in the hospitality industry, you know it’s a special place.”
Resort-Style Amenities with Seaside Charm
Located just off the sandy shores of the Atlantic coastline, the West Indies-inspired Beach Club creates an easygoing setting where numerous gathering places and ocean breezes nurture the spirit of neighbors becoming friends. Generations come together to enjoy a tropical seaside pool, a rejuvenating spa, a Member’s Lounge, and more. Multi-purpose rooms are also home to numerous special interest clubs, including clubs for the arts, Bridge, Mah Jongg, gardening, sporting, and more.
No matter where Members choose to spend their days, they’ll realize that kindness is a part of the culture. Member Mary Stewart shared, “Even if someone already knows other people, they are very open to making new friendships, not just acquaintances. The atmosphere of consideration and respect for every single person makes friendships so easy. I honestly think I have friends here that are as close as some I’ve had for 30 years.”
Golf, River, and Oceanfront Homes Surrounded by Nature
Each of Orchid Island’s 375 residences surrounds Members in the best of Florida’s natural beauty. With many homes located directly on the water or overlooking Orchid Island’s championship golf course, each home features West Indies architectural designs, panoramic natural vistas, and the secluded privacy of living in a gated oceanfront golf community. Luxurious oceanfront condominiums and oceanfront estates are spacious and bright with open Atlantic Ocean views. A wide array of single-family riverfront estates offer open Indian River views and many feature private docks. Golf course homes and cottages are tucked away on private cul-de-sacs and winding streets to maintain open views of the lush fairways and sparkling lakes of its distinctive Arnold Palmer course.
With demand for this highly sought-after community at an all-time high, inventory is limited at Orchid Island. To stay updated on new real estate listings, register your interest at OrchidIslandFL.com. A complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine is available online, showcasing the surrounding area and lifestyle of the community. Call 772.388.3888 for more information or to schedule a private community club tour.
