sun rise over vero beach at orchid island
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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.