Florida's Best Kept (and Most Luxurious) Secret

With pristine, white sandy beaches and championship golf courses, Vero Beach is a slice of classic Florida charm that has yet to be discovered by the masses.

One of the wealthiest counties in the nation, Indian River County is comprised of two major towns, Sebastian and Vero Beach, and has become a favorite of CEOs and executives of Fortune 500 companies to call home after they retire.

Referred to by locals simply as, “The Island,” Vero Beach is nestled along the Indian River Lagoon, which is home to 10,000 species of plants and animals. Boaters, kayakers, and snorkelers alike can enjoy the diverse wildlife in the lagoon before retiring to one of the community’s premier clubhouses, including the ultra-exclusive communities of Johns Island, Windsor and Orchid Island, each offering their own private clubs, beach access and golf courses.

While fueling up at the Quail Valley River Club Marina, take a private water shuttle over to their newest property, The Pointe, and enjoy a drink with friends at the majestic Humphrey’s bar and lounge. Enjoy unobstructed views of the Atlantic while teeing off at Riomar Country Club. The course, which covers nearly 100 lush acres, features the most holes on the ocean in the entire state. But don’t forget to relax and unwind at the Oasis, the spa at the Moorings Yacht & Country Club, where you can indulge in a variety of treatments from facials and massages, to acupuncture and hot stone therapy. 

In addition to the activities on and off the water that one can enjoy on The Island, Vero Beach has a robust and impressive art scene. The permanent collection at Vero Beach Museum of Art features more than 880 works. Primarily focused on American art from the early twentieth century to the present, the museum also has an international collection that continues to grow. See the latest exhibits from renowned local galleries during the evening Art Gallery Stroll, occurring on the first Friday of every month in the historic 14th Avenue art and dining district.

With all that Vero Beach has to offer, it’s difficult to find a reason to leave. But if you must depart from this exquisite paradise, the Vero Beach Regional Airport makes it effortless with private services accommodating small aviation aircrafts up to large corporate jets. The airport’s options for hangar leasing make it just as easy to return to your island. Commercial flights are also provided by Elite Airlines with flights to Newark and Asheville, so whether you’re seeking a primary / secondary residence, or a vacation escape, this undiscovered coastal gem is just a short flight away.

Photos courtesy of: quailvalleygolfclub.com, stonehousegolf.com, verobeachairport.org