If you are looking for a true adventure right here on Orchid Island, head to the historic Jungle Trail, an eight-mile sandy road built in the 1920s along the banks of the Indian River. Originally constructed so that the citrus growers could transport their fruit, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as it was the original A1A. Whether you choose to bike or hike, you’ll enjoy the scenery along the way, including palm tree hammocks and coastal wetland areas. You’ll also get to see some of the area’s magnificent homes. At the end of the trail, you’ll come to the Pelican Island Sanctuary, the first wildlife refuge in the U.S. National Park Registry.

The Historic Jungle Trail is also one of the best places to see the island’s flora and fauna. When you’re so close to the country’s oldest bird sanctuary, you’re sure to see some great things. Take a look in the sky every once in a while – you might catch an osprey or a rare white pelican. Pay attention to the grasses – you might find some unique plants. When you ride by the ocean, keep your eye out on the water – there may be a dolphin or a manatee swimming by.

If you can learn a lot about a town from what it saves for future generations, then there’s tons that a place like this one could say. Residents here work to save things not just for themselves, but for their families. Things like the knowledge of swinging a golf club, or the memory of playing on the beach. 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’s 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.

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

What could manatees, American white pelicans, and loggerhead sea turtles all have in common? At first glance, these animals don’t seem to have many similarities at all. One lays its eggs on the beach, one swims in the water, and one flies in the air. As it turns out, that these animals have much more in common than it seems!

They Love The Water

This is the obvious one. Manatees and loggerheads live their lives in the water. In fact, the turtles don’t really leave the water except to lay their eggs. Did you know that turtles return each year to the same beach where they were born to lay their eggs? American white pelicans stick close to brackish water, a mix of fresh and salt water. Places like red mangroves and rivers are popular for them. To catch their meals, they can be seen corralling fish into an area and then plunging their bucket-like bills into the water. The closer that you are to the water, the more likely that you’re able to spot these animals!

They’re Protected

While loggerhead sea turtles, American white pelicans, and manatees are considered beautiful and important parts of Florida’s ecosystem, they’re also ecologically sensitive. Because of this, lawmakers and residents have worked so that certain protections ensure the safety of these animals. At Orchid Island, this can include everything from setting up special lights on the Beach Club so that baby sea turtles can’t see them to let scientists and conservationists know when a rare species has taken up residence in Orchid Island, like the pelicans. This way, we can ensure that these animals come to stay with us for a long time.

They Live at Orchid Island

Orchid Island is designated as a Certified Cooperative Audubon Sanctuary. That means that the staff and residents of the Club work to preserve the natural environment. Because of that, usually rare animals such as American white pelicans are known to migrate here. They are often seen flying over the golf courses from November through March. Manatees float placidly down the river around this area. They’re drawn to the naturally warm waters. Our beaches are some of the best and most popular nesting grounds for the loggerhead sea turtles. During peak season, their nests are marked off to protect the eggs from beachgoers. Next time that you pay a visit to Orchid Island, keep a close lookout-you may never know what you might see!

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’s 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 $800s to over $10 million and include custom estate residences, courtyard homes, cottage, or oceanfront condominiums.

Now’s The Time To Buy The Florida Vacation Home You’ve Always Wanted

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 Tropics” 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 the one-mile of 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 $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.

Remember how refreshed you felt after your last trip to the beach? Turns out that that’s not all just in your mind! Science has pointed out studies and examples of how living near the water is good for your health. “The members of Orchid Island absolutely love the private beach and access to the water. It’s something that really sets our lifestyle apart,” said Rob Tench, General Manager of Orchid Island. “The Beach Club is a great place to enjoy the natural surroundings, soak up the sun and get some fresh air, right here in their own backyard.” The waterfront energizes people in many ways – see some of them below.

Calm and Clear

Many people report that they feel more relaxed when they’re near the water, and there’s some science to back that. Wallace J. Nichols, Ph.D., marine biologist, and author of the book Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do discusses how the brain can “switch” into a different mode when it sees water, becoming calmer and more creative. While many reasons for this can be surmised, one thing to note is that the waves have a calm, repetitive sound and motion, and the ocean hosts a relaxing color scheme of blues and greens. We see the correlation here. The beach has been proved to increase calm and bring clarity to the mind.

Fresh Air and Sunshine

This may seem so obvious that it’s easy to pass over, but it makes sense. The waterfront, and the beach provide some always-needed fresh air and sunshine. It’s hard to pass up a day, or even just an hour or two, of relaxing on the beach. Soak up the sun (with sunscreen, of course), hunt for seashells, scout for wildlife or dive into a good book. The beach is the perfect place to get outside. Residents at Orchid Island have it right in their own backyard.

Members of Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club are even luckier still 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. Even better, Orchid Island spans from the Atlantic Ocean all the way 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 Cooperative Sanctuary status for its commitment to natural preservation. Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is also the proud host of this year’s 57^th Annual U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur Championship which will be held October 6-11, 2018.

Love the Vero Beach location? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island LifestylesMagazine here to learn more about the Vero Beach area and the Town of Orchid 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.

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 out Real Estate page.

When people want to get away from it all, they head to Florida. And it’s no wonder—with fantastic weather and year-round fun, this place has it all. Vero Beach is a special hidden gem. The idyllic nature is hard to turn down, and the area gets a lot of repeat visitors. Indeed, once guests leave, they’re already planning their return trip. Orchid Island especially has a way of casting its spell.

The quaint seaside area is charming and eclectic. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the peace and nature here. Orchid Island residents know this state of relaxation well, whether they’re enjoying an afternoon with friends at the Beach Club pool or playing a round of golf on the Arnold Palmer—designed course.

This area holds a vast history behind it as well. From its role in Florida’s economy as a fruit grove sanctuary to the historic sites around town, there’s always a story to discover. Make sure to check out the Historic Jungle Trail for a piece of history that you can walk or bike along! There’s an entrance right next to the Orchid Island entry.

Residents of this private community get to be physical as much as they want, whether it’s by enjoying the private beach, working up a sweat at the fitness center or playing a match of tennis or pickleball.

Members of Orchid Island are lucky enough to call this amazing place home. Having served members and their families for over 25 years, this private community is committed to providing a level of service that stands out from the rest. Golfing here is unparalleled, as the 18-hole, Arnold Palmer—designed course not only is renowned among courses but also holds Certified Audubon Cooperative 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 holiday celebrations 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. Even better, Orchid Island stretches from the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Indian River.

Love the Vero Beach location? Request the inaugural issue of Orchid Island Lifestyles magazine here to learn more about the Vero Beach area, the Town of Orchid 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, cottages and oceanfront condominiums. For a full list of available real estate at Orchid Island, visit our Real Estate page.

There’s no time more special than when grandkids come by to visit. With so much to do here in Vero, you’re always trying to fit in as much fun as possible. When you want to make the most of every moment, below are some tips and tricks on fun things to do around the area.

Go on Safari
Now through September, McKee Botanical Garden is going wild! Thanks to sculptures made by the Ark Collective in Nairobi, eagle-eyed guests can find curious creatures hiding out in the garden. Can you spot the elephant babies running through the leaves or the hippo watching from the palms? If you’re lucky, you might be able to find the 16-foot giraffe, towering over the trees! This is a great place to take the kids for the day.

Bike the Historic Jungle Trail
Perfect for older kids, this 8-mile ride will take you through Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, past a scenic stopping point by the Indian River Lagoon, and all the way to the Captain Forster Hammock Preserve. This important piece of Florida history was constructed in the 1920s, so that fruit growers could take their produce to the market. Want a shorter ride? Part of the trail cuts right through Orchid Island, so you can start there. Ride out a little bit out and then turn back when you’re ready. The trail is easy, maintained terrain and it’s almost impossible to get lost!

Hit the Beach
Enjoy Florida’s true gem at Orchid Island’s private beach. Build sandcastles, play tag in the surf or enjoy swimming through the cool blue waters. Keep an eye out for some of the many amazing animals that call Orchid Island home—bald eagles, ospreys, dolphins, even baby turtles if you’re lucky!

No matter what you do, it’s always a great time when family comes to visit. And here in Vero, there’s fun for everyone around every turn.

Members of Orchid Island are lucky enough to call this amazing place home. Having served members and their families and members for over 25 years, 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 not only is renowned among courses but also holds an Certified Audubon Cooperative 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 holiday gatherings 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.
Even better, Orchid Island stretches from the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Indian River.

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.

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