As the winter months draw near, many are gearing up for their seasonal journey to the warmth of Florida’s coastline. On the Treasure Coast, Vero Beach has quickly emerged as a favored winter retreat. This charming town, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and abundant entertainment, offers an array of experiences to savor. Before you book your flight to Vero Beach, here are a few of the top attractions that Members at Orchid Island recommend exploring this season.
1. Fly Straight to Vero Beach
For those traveling from the Northeast, reaching Vero Beach is now more convenient than ever. Breeze Airways offers direct flights to Vero Beach Regional Airport from several key cities in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. This makes the journey quicker and less complicated than navigating the larger international airports. For those seeking worldly adventures, however, Orlando International Airport, Melbourne International Airport and Palm Beach International Airport are all just a short drive away.
2. There Will Be No Shortage of Events
Visitors to Vero Beach will find a vibrant array of events to enjoy. Festivals in the Indian River area are a regular highlight, beginning with the Treasure Coast Seafood Festival on September 28-29, where local chefs serve up the finest flavors of the sea. The Treasure Coast Ribs, Wings, and Rock Festival continues the excitement on October 4-5, featuring top-tier BBQ and lively entertainment. Many are also looking forward to the Vero Beach Film Festival, set for April 10-13, 2025. This festival screens hundreds of films, from comedies and dramas to documentaries and shorts, by filmmakers from around the globe. In addition to these events, the Vero Beach Farmers Market remains a beloved weekly tradition. Held on Ocean Drive every Saturday, the market offers fresh produce and artisanal goods against the backdrop of the Atlantic.
3. It’s One of America’s Best Beach Towns
One of the greatest perks of the Sunshine State is the ability to enjoy the beach year-round. Northerners are in luck, as Vero Beach has been recognized as one of America’s Best Beach Towns by Coastal Living. Guided by the motto “sunrises, not high-rises,” this charming town ensures no building along the 26-mile stretch exceeds three stories. This leaves plenty of space for enjoying leisurely walks, beachcombing for seashells, and even treasure hunting. Visitors are likely to encounter loggerhead sea turtles, ghost crabs, diving pelicans, and more.
4. There’s Natural Beauty Beyond the Coastline
The beaches are just the beginning of Vero Beach’s natural allure. To the west, the Indian River Lagoon offers a vibrant ecosystem that draws nature enthusiasts from near and far. The Environmental Learning Center provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the lagoon’s rich biodiversity through guided kayak tours, nature trails, and interactive exhibits. The 18-acre McKee Botanical Gardens is also a must-visit for those who appreciate the beauty of nature. It features over 10,000 native and exotic plants, ponds, and scenic streams with one of Florida’s largest water lily collections.
5. A Passion for the Arts Thrives
Vero Beach boasts a rich cultural scene with a strong emphasis on the arts. The Riverside Theatre serves as the hub for live performances, presenting everything from Broadway hits to local shows. Ballet Vero Beach brings elegance to the community with its contemporary and classic ballet programs, including a unique local take on the holiday classic “The Nutcracker.” The Gifford Museum highlights the area’s local history and heritage, while the Vero Beach Museum of Art features a diverse collection of over 800 pieces from around the world, showcasing a wide range of artistic forms. There are also plenty of art galleries, boutiques, and more to peruse throughout the city.
Vero Beach’s Premier Golf and Beach Club
Located on a natural barrier island in Vero Beach, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club offers Members a chance to immerse themselves in a serene coastal Florida lifestyle. The Club features an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, renowned for its captivating views of coastal landscapes and abundant wildlife. The West Indies-style Beach Club serves as a social hub, where generations gather to enjoy a seaside pool, a spa and nail salon, and multiple dining options. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of a state-of-the-art fitness center, and eight Har-Tru tennis courts. A new Sports Complex provides six pickleball courts, a basketball court, two bocce courts, a croquet court, and a children’s playground for all ages to enjoy.
Each of Orchid Island’s 375 residences features West Indies architectural designs and panoramic views of either the water or the golf course. Luxurious oceanfront condominiums and oceanfront estates are spacious and bright with open Atlantic Ocean views. A limited number 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, click here to register your interest. 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.
