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There are few places in Florida that enjoy a more magical setting than a barrier island nestled between the Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Here, at Orchid Island, just 375 West Indies-inspired residences are nestled in this picturesque setting, many with direct oceanfront or waterfront views. This nature lover’s haven located on the east coast of Florida in Vero Beach is a special place for Members and wildlife alike. See how this private golf & beach club community has embraced and celebrated its natural surroundings.

Uncrowded White-Sand Beaches

Stretching for almost a mile along the Atlantic Ocean, Orchid Island’s Members enjoy a serene coastal retreat. Residents of the luxurious oceanfront estates or carefree oceanfront condominiums, as well as Members of the oceanfront club, have direct access to the pristine shoreline from the architecturally distinct Beach Club. Whether strolling the beachfront, fishing, surfing, paddleboarding or just spending time with family, the beach has a special appeal to every member of the community. The West Indies-inspired Beach Club offers a tropical seaside pool with cabanas and poolside dining. A rejuvenating Spa, Member’s Lounge, and oceanfront dining are also popular destinations for Club Members. Chef Sozio’s gourmet farm-to-table dining and carefully curated cocktails are served with a gentle ocean breeze. Multi-purpose rooms are also home to numerous special interest clubs, including clubs for the arts, cards, Mah Jongg, gardening, sporting, and more.

orchid island beach club aerial

Championship Golf Island Style

Surrounded by a seaside natural landscape teeming with wildlife, avid golfers enjoy one of Florida’s few barrier island championship golf courses. This par-72, Arnold Palmer-designed course provides a memorable experience for members of every skill level, with numerous weekly tournaments, events, and lessons coordinated by full-time teaching professionals. Certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, every turn welcomes a delightful surprise with natural neighbors sharing one of Florida’s most diverse landscapes.

orchid island golf course in florida

Kayak Cove Launch Along the Estuary

For those who relish spending time outdoors or on the water, Orchid Island’s riverside kayak launch provides direct access to the saltwater estuaries of the Indian River Lagoon, the most biologically diverse waterway in North America. Members love to spend their days birdwatching, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and boating around the area’s salt and freshwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks. Many of the community’s artistic Members find inspiration for photography or artwork on canvas along the shoreline. On land, the Historic Jungle Trail is an eight-mile adventure along the Indian River shoreline, providing 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.

father and son walking in florida

A Homestead Surrounded by Nature’s Beauty

Thanks to Orchid Island’s long history of supporting the environment and surrounding wildlife, Members experience the best of Florida’s natural beauty within their own backyards. Manatees, pelicans, tricolored herons, snowy egrets, and more all congregate throughout the mangroves and provide a beautiful sightseeing adventure for any kayaking trip. The area also gives sanctuary to over 1,500 species of Florida’s migratory birds, ensuring birdwatching is a favored Member activity. The sea turtles even feel most at home on the shores of Orchid Island, as the beach is a nesting ground for hundreds of turtles every year.

orchid island oceanfront club balcony view in florida

River & Oceanfront Private Estate Homes

For those interested in learning more about Orchid Island’s waterfront lifestyle, visiting OrchidIslandFL.com is an excellent way to get to know the community. Orchid Island is home to a wide variety of premier ocean and riverfront homes for sale, and current listings are featured on their website. 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 this picturesque, 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.

The state of Florida is home to some of the world’s top private golf communities. Vibrant landscapes, beautiful scenery, and warm weather allow for play throughout the year. Located on a barrier island along Florida’s Treasure Coast, Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club is a private golf community unlike any other. Of course, club Members enjoy memorable rounds on Orchid Island’s award-winning course, but it’s the unique and welcoming culture and pristine natural environment that makes it the perfect choice for their Florida home. Here’s a look behind the gates of Orchid Island and the many reasons why golf enthusiasts are coming home to the Treasure Coast.

A Pristine Coastal Florida Location

Orchid Island is nestled on a barrier island between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. Gorgeous scenery and abundant wildlife add to the special nature of the community. The golf course is a certified Audubon Sanctuary and home to many native species, including the roseate spoonbill and beautiful white pelicans that grace the lake shorelines throughout the course. The community provides sanctuary to hundreds of species of Florida’s migratory birds and animals, including manatees, river otters, armadillos, and herons. In addition to animals, native plant species including palm trees and mangroves can be found throughout Orchid Island. Pristine bodies of water, native wildlife, and warm weather transform this area into a premier golf community.

Two people with surfing boards on the ocean

Championship Golf by Arnold Palmer

As the beloved centerpiece of this community, Orchid Island is home to an 18-hole championship golf course designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer. Surrounded by a unique natural landscape and warm ocean breezes, this course is one of Florida’s few barrier island courses. Driven by the concept that golf should be fun for all skill levels, the course uses nine tee combinations to create a flexible game, ranging from 4,321 to 7,216 total yards. A calendar filled with numerous weekly events, tournaments, and lessons are coordinated by the full-time teaching professionals to create memorable experiences for all.

Golf Cart on a private golf club course

Private Beach Club and Spa

Just a short two-minute golf cart ride away lies the Orchid Island Beach Club and its private Member spa. This oceanfront Club provides direct beach access to the Atlantic shoreline and enviable amenities that make relaxing beachside effortless. Members may choose to spend time lounging by the relaxing pool with private cabanas or partake in the culinary delights of Chef Sozio in the spectacular dining room overlooking the ocean. Members are pampered with a variety of services at the Beach Club spa, including a deep tissue massage or an exfoliating body treatment. Leave feeling rejuvenated and well-rested at this the spa, making a lifestyle of relaxation and leisure a reality. At the Pool Grille, flavorful casual fare is served, and Members can enjoy a refreshing cocktail poolside. The Turtle Bar is the place to be on Friday night for live entertainment in the open-air setting. An architecturally distinct yoga lawn also serves as an event gathering space or the perfect place for family lawn games.

Golf club pool with beach chairs

Inspired Healthy Living

Along with the Club’s championship golf course, 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, spin room, and more than 35 weekly group classes to help Members look and feel their best.

A Welcoming Private Club Community

The only stranger you’ll meet at Orchid Island is a friend you have not met yet. Valuing friendships and quality connections, the accomplished Members truly love engaging within the community. The relaxed lifestyle encourages people to embrace new activities and interests, as well as allowing them to build quality relationships with their neighbors. Enjoy spending time with one another by exploring the community, relaxing among the palms and, of course, playing golf. Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club is the ideal community for golfers wanting to challenge themselves on a highly decorated course while simultaneously creating quality friendships.

Eight people sitting at the bar

With its distinct and timeless West Indies style, Orchid Island properties are in high demand. An exceptional collection of riverfront and oceanfront estates are complemented by luxurious oceanfront condominiums and picturesque golf course homes. For those interested in learning more about this one-of-a-kind private club community, we encourage you to 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.

Vero Beach Lands on the List of the Top 10 Best Beach Towns to Live In the USA

Turn every day into a vacation when you move to one of these beach towns.

Ocean breezes, endless sunshine, daily walks along the sand, and a laid-back way of life all entice Americans to relocate to the country’s many beach towns. From charming cities on the California coast to Florida’s popular shores, there are dozens of destinations to consider, so it can be hard to pick one as your new home.

Thankfully, personal finance site WalletHub has determined the best beach towns to live in around the United States, ranking them according to 63 indicators, including affordability, weather, safety, economy, education and health, and overall quality of life. The top 10 ocean towns to live in (listed below) are unsurprisingly concentrated in states boasting ample coastline, like Florida, California, and Hawaii.

WalletHub also looked at data like violent crime rates, water temperatures, nightlife establishments and restaurants per capita, and more to help you make the right decision. And while our list focuses on beach towns near the ocean, the site also rounded up the best lake beach towns to live in (Traverse City, Michigan; Folsom, California; and Redmond, Washington snagged the top three spots, with others in North Carolina, Ohio, and Wisconsin in the top 10).

10. Vero Beach, Florida

Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Vero Beach scored well for weather, safety, and quality of life. Living in Vero Beach means easy access to the beaches and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including water sports and fishing.

To see the full list, check out the original article published by Travel & Leisure

Vero Beach Lands on the List of top 10 best beach towns in USA

 

Most travelers know the Treasure Coast region of Florida as a popular second home destination with beautiful, secluded beaches, yet its history is vast and a true-to-life treasure. Let’s dig into the history of the Treasure Coast name, and how it is still embedded in this beautiful Atlantic coast region.

There’s Gold to Be Found

Three hundred years ago, a fleet of ships filled with treasure made their way along the Atlantic coast to transport gold, jewels, and other valuable metals back to Spain. Just weeks into the journey, a turbulent hurricane stirred the ocean before them. The crew became trapped in the Bahama Channel with no means to free the ships. Eleven of the 12 ships were ripped apart by the high winds and sank to the seafloor. Only one ship survived, and their crew tried to recover the bounty. It is assumed that two-thirds of the treasure remains beneath the sand on the area beaches.

In the 1950s, another ship met its fate along the shoreline near the Sebastian Inlet, exposing parts of the ancient ships. The ships had sunk in relatively shallow water allowing the strong currents to push some of the jewels closer to shore, and soon beachcombers began to find gold coins and other valuable pieces. In fact, along the Vero Beach coastline near Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club, professional salvagers would eventually find over $4.5 million in jewels and treasure.

How Did Treasure Coast Get Its Name?

So how did the name appear? The Treasure Coast was created by writers at the Vero Beach Press Journal newspaper just prior to the recovery of the Spanish treasure. Since the first coin was found in 1961, the area known as the Treasure Coast is known to travelers all over the world, and gold is still occasionally found along the shoreline.

With an amazing history of its own, Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club is a unique treasure to its Members. This private golf and beach club community is filled with Members who feel even more fortunate to call this amazing place home. The West-Indies-style 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. Not to mention the resort-style pool and amenities such as tennis, pickleball, and a fitness center available to members.

The True Treasures Beyond the Beach

Even better, Orchid Island spans from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian River, where a new community kayak launch brings adventurous homeowners up close and personal with area wildlife. As an Audubon-certified nature preserve, the idyllic setting is highly desired by those seeking a healthy outdoor lifestyle in harmony with its natural surroundings.

Luxury residential properties are in demand and often sell within minutes of becoming available. Custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottages, or oceanfront condominiums range from the $800s to over $8 million. For an up-to-date list of available properties at Orchid Island, visit OrchidIslandRealty.com.

If you’re just getting started on your quest to find your future community, the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine is a great way to learn more about the Vero Beach area and Orchid Island.

If you are in the area, stop by the oceanfront Orchid Island Sales Center or call 772. 388.3888 to schedule an appointment. For more information visit OrchidIslandFL.com.

For Members of Orchid Island, the spectacular oceanfront Beach Club serves as the heart of the community. Its authentic West Indies style is elegant and impressive, but also down-to-earth and welcoming, furnished in rich, dark woods and whimsical, brightly colored fabrics. With windows covering almost every wall, members can soak in the million-dollar views.

When you step inside the Orchid Island Beach Club, the first word that comes to mind is “authentic.” The club’s tropical West Indies style is the perfect combination of casual comfort and stylish elegance. The look fits in perfectly with the enviable waterfront setting. The architecture and decor, with balconies and verandas, French doors and multi-pane windows, rich wood and Far Eastern accents, set it apart.

Though the inside of the Club is tropical and appealing, you’ll discover the real magic outside. The connected boardwalk leads to over a mile of private beach, quiet and natural, right there for you to enjoy. Don’t worry about carrying a chair, the Beach Club has plenty of chaise lounges and umbrellas to relax on and under. The resort-like pool is the perfect place to cool off from the beach. You don’t even have to leave your lounge chair to enjoy a flavorful wrap, fresh salad or a juicy burger from the Pool Grille. Or you can cool off with a frozen drink from the poolside Turtle Bar. Add in the private cabanas facing the beach and a spacious locker room and towel service, and you can see why Orchid Island’s whole waterfront experience makes every day feel like a holiday.

And the beauty of the club is just beginning. Natural neighbors here abound, from white pelicans, to sea turtles to otters. The Arnold Palmer championship golf course is also an Audubon Certified Sanctuary.

If you want to get up close to nature and experience the best the area has to offer, then Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is where you want to be. Along with its state-of-the-art amenities, Orchid Island works hard to preserve a way of life for not only its neighbors who live on the Treasure Coast, but its Members as well.

There are many conveniences at Orchid Island that Members enjoy, but the golf cart lifestyle is on the top of the list. Traveling the community via their personally owned golf cart allows them to access the Club’s amenities quickly while also having a fun and enjoyable experience. One of the favorites is heading over to the private West Indies styled Beach Club, where they and their families can swim, surf and sunbathe before jumping into the beautifully exclusive swimming pool which sits adjacent to the Pool Grille and Turtle Bar.

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 up to $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottages and oceanfront condominiums. Check out the full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island.

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.

Located on the east coast of Florida, Vero Beach is a quaint and charming town, and those who visit usually look for reasons to stay longer. Not too far north, you’ll find Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club. Referred to by many as the gem of the Treasure Coast, Orchid Island is a unique, private club nestled between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Club has a mile of private beach steps away from its beautiful British West Indies Beach Club and breathtaking nature everywhere you look. And if you love golf, you’ll be in heaven when you play on its Arnold Palmer designed, championship golf course. But most of all, what makes Orchid Island really special is its members. Here are five more reasons you may want to plan a trip to check out this unique town:

Sunrises Not Skyrises

When you scan the skyline in Vero Beach, you’ll realize that buildings and condominiums are not higher than four stories. If you look closer at oceanfront buildings, you’ll also find that the lights are angled away from the beach. The lighting is also orange so that turtle hatchlings won’t confuse them for the moon and stray towards them instead of the ocean. The locals have put in every effort to protect the nature that lives here. It’s why run-ins with otters and dolphins are more common than run-ins with crowds of tourists. It’s just another reason why those who live in Orchid Island and Vero Beach feel like they’re on their own island of paradise.

Cuisine That’s So Uniquely Fresh

If you love to eat, Vero Beach won’t disappoint. With a strong history of citrus groves to top chefs who continue to get fresh produce and ingredients from local farmers, the choices of restaurants and flare are unlimited. Don’t believe us? Next time you’re in town, be sure to try the finest in gourmet Italian and French cuisine at Di Mare, alongside the Atlantic Ocean on Ocean Drive. If you love Caribbean, check out Mo-Bay Grill where the locals flock for grouper, snapper and conch.

A Coastal Culture

Oprah Winfrey, Gloria Estefan, Jake Owen – one of Vero Beach’s little secrets is that it tends to have a connection to some big names. Another secret is that Vero Beach is a great place for the cultural arts. You’ll find big city attractions, from film festivals to gallery showings, that fit Vero Beach’s lifestyle. The Riverside Theatre often hosts award winning musicals, famous comedians, and even the Vero Beach Wine and Film Festival. You can even see some of the local artists’ best pieces at the First Friday Art Stroll in downtown Vero Beach.

Sensational Shopping

Just like dining, Vero Beach offers first class shopping. From quaint boutiques along the ocean to fun, local shops in downtown Vero Beach, the selection of unique merchandise makes for a great day of shopping day or night. Remember the First Friday Art Stroll that we mentioned earlier? It’s also when many local shops keep their doors open after hours, so that customers can find unique items. Shops such as Seahorse Lane Boutique and The Parisian Hostess offer matchless clothing, furniture and gifts that align with a beachfront lifestyle.

Living The Ultimate Beachfront Lifestyle

Exotic nature around every corner, high-end culture, a tranquil lifestyle and some of the best beaches in Florida – its no wonder that people love it here. Vero Beach, as does Orchid Island, represents a way of life that is often thought of being long lost – a lifestyle that is calmer, slower paced, but also full of exciting things around every corner. It’s a place where families watch their favorite baseball teams play at Dodgertown Stadium, followed by dinner at the Historic Driftwood Inn. They hike down the Historic Jungle Trail and pay a visit to the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. No matter what activities are planned, you can’t help but have a good time in Vero Beach.

There are plenty of places to live in Vero Beach, but there’s only one that stands out from the rest. If you want to get up close to nature and experience the best the area has to offer, then Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is second to none. Along with its state-of-the-art amenities, Orchid Island works hard to preserve a way of life for not only its neighbors who live on the Treasure Coast, but its Members as well.

There are many conveniences at Orchid Island that Members enjoy but the golf cart lifestyle is on the top of the list. Traveling the community via their personally owned golf cart allows them to access the Club’s amenities quickly while also having a fun and enjoyable experience. One of the favorites is heading over to the private West Indies styled Beach Club, where they and their families can swim, surf and sunbathe before jumping into the beautifully exclusive swimming pool which sits adjacent to the Pool Grille and Turtle Bar.

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 up to $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottages and oceanfront condominiums. Check out the full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island.

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.

March is a fantastic time to get outside and enjoy local food, shops, and experiences. Vero Beach has plenty of opportunities for us to do so. From food and festivals to markets and music, this month is full of activities and opportunities for all. Below are some of our favorite events in the area. How do you plan on spending the springtime?

Main Street Vero Beach Vintage Market

Collecting vintage pieces and fine artworks is an intensive hobby. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be hard. The Main Street Vero Beach Vintage Market, hosted by Main Street Vero Beach, is one of the best places to look. On March 9th, guests will spend the day along 14th Avenue and 20th Street sifting through the racks of vintage clothing and furniture, perusing the crafts of local artists, and sampling the delicacies of local food vendors, all the while spending a sunny afternoon in the beautiful historic downtown of Vero Beach.

March Shows at the Riverside Theatre

As Vero Beach’s preferred destination for live entertainment since 1973, the Riverside Theatre has been where aspiring stars have put on performances that have wowed local audiences. Part of the theatre’s 2019 season includes Ghost Writer and My Fair Lady. Ghost Writer is the story of a secretary who continues to write her deceased charge’s works after his passing, and how society views this transgressive act. My Fair Lady is the retelling of the famous George Bernard Shaw play Pygmalion, in which a young Cockney woman takes contemporary manners, society, and perceptions to task as she works with a phoneticist to prepare for her introduction into high society. Reflecting both turn-of-the-century sensibilities and modern concepts of gender and power, viewers will find plenty that reverberates with them in this performance.

68th Annual Under The Oaks Arts and Crafts Show

You may have noticed that this area has an unrivaled creative spirit. Nothing displays this better than the Under the Oaks Arts and Crafts Show. Held by the Vero Beach Art Club, its 68th year establishes it as a cultural institution for Vero Beach. The show raises money for the organization while highlighting the works of over 220 artists from across the nation. On March 9th, enjoy viewing works by artists and chowing down on local foods while touring beautiful Riverside Park.

42nd Annual Antique Auto Show

Riverside Park isn’t home to just amazing live acts or art shows – its where you can see the coolest cars of yesteryear, as well. Come March 16th, expect to see over 325 cars from the 20th century, alongside foreign and modified cars. Events will include dash plaques, trophies, and contests as car owners compete to see who owns the best automobile. When you attend, remember to bring non-perishable food items to help out the Vero Beach Post Office “Drive Out Hunger.”

Maybe your idea of a good day is shopping for unique pieces and trying dishes from renowned restaurants. Or maybe you want to have a close encounter with manatees, otters, ospreys, and other kinds of wildlife. You’ll find all of that and more right near Orchid Island. Looking to kick back and relax on a private beach, or play a few rounds of golf on expertly designed courses? Hoping to take the golf cart to dinner, or get to know your neighbors with fun activities and experiences? Orchid Island is the perfect place to live a truly unique lifestyle.

Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club 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. Animals from river otters to dolphins to loggerhead turtles populate the area, granting residents opportunities to spot them as they wander through the miles of trails that the neighborhood offer. Members and residents enjoy their private beach access thanks to the neighborhood spanning 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. 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. Having been established as one of the premier courses in the golfing world, Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club’s course hosted the 2018 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship, and continues to host its own private golfing events for its residents.

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

Luxury residential properties range from the $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums. If you’re in the area, stop by the Orchid Island Realty Sales Center and see the community’s beauty for yourself, or call 772.388.3888 for more information. For a full list of available real estate listings at Orchid Island, visit OrchidIslandFL.com

In Vero Beach, Florida, you’ll discover the best of both worlds. That’s because Vero is at the eastern edge of the demarcation line that separates Florida into two different climate zones. North of Vero is a subtropical climate, and south of it is tropical. That’s why Vero Beach is known as the “Gateway to the Tropic” and is graced with a unique mix of vegetation. Growing here are coconut palms and bright tropical flowers that won’t grow even a few miles north. Alongside these tropical wonders, you’ll find a beautiful, rich landscape made up of ancient oak hammocks and dense pine forests. Add to that the area’s beautiful beaches and the citrus trees that thrive here, giving the area the title of “Citrus Capital of the World.” With all this environmental diversity, it’s easy to see why Vero Beach has so much natural appeal.

For many generations, Vero Beach and its surrounding areas were known as the benchmark for quality citrus production and shipment. People all over the world enjoyed the juicy Indian River citrus grown here. It wasn’t until Edwin Llwyd Ecclestone Sr. purchased the 3000-acre estate on John’s Island that the Vero Beach area began to thrive as a resort destination. Ecclestone and his team recruited Fortune 500 CEOs and entrepreneurs from up north to create a golf community that drew top tier individuals to this area. Ground was broken in 1969, and the first of three golf courses opened the next year.

In 1987, Orchid Island, north of John’s Island, followed suit, when it was sold to Robert Haines III of Avon, Connecticut, and a small group of limited partners. At that time, the town of Orchid had only seven inhabitants. Haines’ vision was to build a few hundred British West Indies–style homes overlooking the ocean, the Indian River and a spectacular golf course. Ground was broken on Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club in 1988. Just like on John’s Island, this spectacular community became a draw, attracting high-end individuals to this stunning oasis.

Soon, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club was attracting people from every part of the country, as it had quickly become one of the most desirable oceanfront properties on the Treasure Coast, with one of Florida’s few barrier island golf courses. Throughout the generations of settlers in the Vero Beach area, there has always been a common thread—conservation and respect for the land. This long-standing culture began in the early 20th century, when Pelican Island in the Indian River Lagoon was designated as the country’s first wildlife refuge. The area has always been developed thoughtfully and with care. Instead of the urban sprawl that defines other parts of Florida, this area was planned in an organized fashion, taking green spaces into account and preserving beautiful, historic structures, allowing it to retain a charming, small-town flavor.

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 private beach access and what are 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. 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 $800’s 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

 

From the upscale to the casual, Vero Beach has a culinary culture that drives gastronomes wild. Within the same area, you can sample everything from Latin fusion to comforting classics. While all of the restaurants here are worthy of a visit, we picked five of our favorites below to try. Each of them is unique in character and style.

The Wave

 Emilio and Gloria Estefan are well versed in the nature of mixing things together. It stands to reason that their Costa D’este hotel restaurant, The Wave, would use the flavors of Cuban food to accentuate classic American dishes. The inside reflects as much, with the sharp edges of postmodern American styles meeting the warm woods and sumptuous detail of Havana’s finest residences. The depth of Cuban cooking is on full display here, with dishes such as Roasted Cauliflower Steak with Salsa Verde and the Paella a la Costa made in the traditional style and studded throughout with calamari, scallops, and chorizo. Cheekily named drinks such as the Vitamin Water (Grey Goose Le Citron, Pama, blueberries, and lemon juice) top off the experience, making it a tropical vacation.

Southern Social Kitchen and Bar

The owners of this restaurant call their technique ‘rustic meets refined’, and it’s an approach that follows throughout every part of their business. Customers get a taste of it as soon as they enter, where they’re met with large tables to suit large parties, unfinished wood lining the walls, and simple wall art decorating the area. It’s clear that the chefs here have done their research regarding Southern cooking’s roots, as proved in the Deviled Eggs served Southern style for an appetizer, and Hogfish with collard greens and fried mashed potatoes. Finish off your dinner with a traditional Hummingbird Cake, layered high with pineapples and cherries.

The Kilted Mermaid

When the residents of Vero Beach look to unwind after a long day of fun in the sun, they come to Kilted Mermaid. The Kilted Mermaid serves as the middle ground between the new and old guard of cuisine and alcohol. The proof is in the product. The servers will tell you what wine pairings go best with each dish, the menu describes the flavor profile of certain cheeses, and the bands that play here range from The Leftovers to Wild and Blue. Stop by after a few rounds of golf for the Manchego Pesto Fondue with chicken and bread skewers, served with a Cigar City Maduro Brown Ale.

The Lemon Tree

Sometimes, a sign that something is truly good is that it never really changes. While the rest of the world feels like it needs to catch up with its neighbors, there are certain restaurants that retain their small town charm and great cooking. You’ll find such an example at The Lemon Tree. This diner has been serving up plates to locals for ages. The chefs here don’t feel the need to experiment with tried-and-true menu options. Classics such as Buttermilk Pancakes and Grilled Chicken Sandwiches are served alongside the chef’s take on familiar favorites. The next time that you stop by, grab the Local Mahi Sandwich with Dijon Vinaigrette – you won’t find a fish any fresher than the ones caught locally and served here. Feel free to spend some time here with a cup of coffee, a conversation with a good friend, and a plate of their complimentary muffins.

Waldo’s

 Waldo’s calls itself ‘The last of the great American hangouts.’ Said to have once been the Driftwood Inn, the building is constructed nearly entirely out of wood and retains a quirky, Old Florida aesthetic. True to Waldo’s nature, the extensive menu is of a different theme than the restaurant’s exterior, filled with options such as Southern Style Fish Tacos and Beer Battered Dolphin Fingers. These dining options represent the restaurant’s style: ostentatious, a little brash, but definitely loveable. Top off dinner with one of their over-the-top cocktails, such as their Malibu Confusion or a Pomegranate Martini.

The things that make a great meal vary between every person. One might say that they would need ingredients of the highest caliber or something made with the most advanced tools. Someone else might point out that they like to try new foods and new flavors, or that they like a mix of things. Even then, someone else might say that all they need is a good sandwich and someone to share it with. There’s no argument that Vero Beach knows how to serve up a great plate, no matter what’s on the menu. This isn’t limited to cooking. This ‘Hibiscus City’ has a reputation for offering the best in quality for everything, from shopping to living options. But there’s one neighborhood that puts the best of everything together.

With an amazing history of its own, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club has been proudly serving members for over twenty-five years. Members love to call this place home. The West-Indies style 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. Championship golf and amenities such as tennis, pickle ball, and a fitness center make it even better. Orchid Island spans from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Indian River.

This private community is committed to providing an unparalleled level of service. Golf is an experience, as the Arnold Palmer designed, 18-hole course is renowned as an Audubon Certified Cooperative Sanctuary or its commitment to natural preservation. Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club was also the proud host of 2018’s 57th Annual U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship.

Love the Vero Beach location and thinking of making it your home? 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 orchidislandfl.com/real-estate/.

Step behind the gates to learn more about this one-of-a-kind community through the pages of the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles Magazine.  To request your copy, click here.

If you’re in the area, stop by the oceanfront Orchid Island Sales Center and see the community’s beauty for yourself. Call 772.388.3888 to schedule an appointment or for more information visit OrchidIslandFL.com.

Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club has been recognized for excellence by Platinum Clubs® of America, ranking in the Top 5% of Clubs in the nation. Over 3,100 Private Club General Managers, Club Presidents and Owners utilized the Platinum Clubs of America -Seven Selection Criteria, as approved by the Club Leaders Forum Advisory Board, to cast their votes in a confidential ballot with the results certified as true and correct by an independent third party.

Since 1997, Club Leaders Forum (CLF) has been a respected resource for private club leadership, producing an industry publication, The FORUM, that contains Relevant, Interesting and Informative topics. CLF also hosts platforms for Leaders to collaborate on topics that shape the industry at its exclusive annual events.

The clubs published in the Top Private Clubs lists and Honorable Mentions merit respect for this remarkable achievement as elected by their peers in the industry.

Orchid Island is a private and intimate residential golf course community, offering gracious waterfront and golf course homes, an award-winning Arnold Palmer golf course, a state-of-the-art Tennis & Fitness Center and an intimate Beach Club perfectly suited for leisurely gatherings, club activities and exceptional dining. Orchid Island is the proud recipient of the following Awards & Accolades: Americas Healthiest Clubs from Prevo Health Solutions, Platinum Clubs of America from Club Leaders Forum (CLF), Distinguished Club of from BoardRoom Magazine and Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary from Audubon International.