A Local’s Guide to What Makes Vero Beach, Florida Irresistible

May 22, 2024 | Read Time: 5 minutes

From pristine white-sand beaches to the rich tapestry of ecosystems in the Indian River Lagoon, Vero Beach, Florida, has long captivated the hearts of visitors with its windswept beauty and diverse natural sanctuaries. Yet, the coastal town on the Treasure Coast is more than just its sandy shores; it’s a vibrant kaleidoscope of activities and adventures to enjoy. A unique fusion of style, flavor, arts, culture, and undiscovered natural wonders renders this coastal town truly exceptional. Let’s explore the myriad of reasons why so many are choosing Vero Beach for their permanent address.

One Of America’s Best Beach Towns

While Vero Beach may be small in size, the coastal town is no stranger to the national spotlight. In 2023, the region was recognized by Coastal Living as one of America’s Best Beach Towns. Here, 26 miles of beaches ensure ample space for leisurely walks, beachcombing for seashells, surfing in crystal-clear waters or treasure hunting. While exploring the beaches, visitors are likely to encounter sightings of loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings, ghost crabs, diving pelicans, and more.

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

The beaches, however, are just the beginning of Vero Beach’s natural allure. The Indian River Lagoon to the west boasts a diverse ecosystem, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Sebastian Inlet State Park hosts the largest nesting assembly of loggerhead sea turtles in the nation, while the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge provides habitat to 140 bird species and 350 fish species. For a more refined nature experience, the 18-acre McKee Botanical Gardens, a short drive away, features over 10,000 native and exotic plants, ponds, and scenic streams with one of Florida’s largest water lily collections.

A Private Club Community Surrounded By Natural Beauty

Set amid the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club provides Members with endless opportunities to enjoy a coastal Florida lifestyle. This private club community in Vero Beach enjoys a beautiful natural setting and world-class amenities that are second to none. The Arnold Palmer-designed golf course is the beloved centerpiece of the community. Certified as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, every turn within this par-72 course welcomes exciting views of natural seaside landscapes teeming with wildlife. The West Indies-style Beach Club is a social place where generations come together to enjoy a seaside pool, a full-service salon and spa, and multiple dining venues. A state-of-the-art fitness center, eight Har-Tru tennis courts and pickleball courts provide ample options for every fitness enthusiast. Multi-purpose rooms are also home to numerous special interest clubs, including clubs for the arts, Bridge, Mah Jongg, gardening, sporting, and more.

Where Style Meets Flavor

For culinary enthusiasts and fashionistas, downtown Vero Beach and Ocean Drive offer a mix of high-end boutiques and unique seaside treasures to peruse. Discover the latest fashion trends at Sea Glass Boutique and El Prado or explore antiques at Vintage Vero. Ocean Drive is also a culinary haven, featuring seafood specials and stunning waterfront views at Ocean Grill and Citrus Grillhouse. Fine dining options include Cobalt, The Tides, and Trattoria Dario. When it’s time for dessert, the gourmet bakery and ice cream sandwich shop Cravings provides the perfect sweet treat.

A Thriving Arts & Culture Scene

Vero Beach is also a hub for arts and culture, with options for every art form. The Vero Beach Museum of Art, nestled along the scenic Indian River Lagoon, is an accredited cultural hub offering curated exhibits, film screenings, and lectures. Riverside Theatre, a local favorite just across the street, features Tony award-winning performances and children’s theater. Vero Beach Opera adds a touch of sophistication with professional opera productions and international vocal competitions. Ballet Vero Beach brings the universal language of dance to life through its programs, including original works, world premieres, and their local twist on the holiday classic “The Nutcracker.”

An Endless Calendar Of Vero Beach Events

With a year-round event calendar, there’s always something exciting happening in Vero Beach. The Vero Beach Farmers’ Market, ranked 11th nationally, offers farm-fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Festivals are a constant, with February’s lineup including Gardenfest, a celebration of plants and pottery with over 90 vendors to meet. The Vero Beach Food & Wine Festival and Craft Brew & Wing Fest are also in February, allowing foodies to savor international and local flavors. Other popular annual events include the Vero Beach Air Show in April, the Vero Beach Wine & Film Festival in June and the Boat Show in November.