Orchid FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Orchid, Florida.
1. Observation Tower
SCENIC LAGOON VIEWS
The Observation Tower in Orchid offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscapes and waterways. Visitors can climb to the top to spot local wildlife and enjoy the stunning vistas of the Indian River Lagoon. This hiking highlight provides an excellent opportunity for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers to capture the beauty of Florida's east coast.
2. Indian River Lagoon
CRADLE OF THE OCEAN
The Indian River Lagoon near Orchid is known as 'the cradle of the ocean,' protecting and nurturing diverse wildlife in its waters. This natural wonder comprises three distinct lagoons: the Mosquito Lagoon, the Banana River, and the main Indian River. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, or boat tours to experience the lagoon's rich ecosystem and possibly spot manatees, dolphins, and numerous bird species.
3. Orchid Island Private Beach
PRISTINE ATLANTIC SHORELINE
Orchid Island's private beach offers a secluded one-mile stretch of pristine shoreline along Florida's Treasure Coast. The beach provides a tranquil escape where visitors can enjoy the gentle Atlantic waves and soft sandy beaches away from crowds. Members of Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club can access the exclusive Beach Club, which offers resort-style amenities and dining options overlooking the ocean.
4. Orchid Island Golf Course
ARNOLD PALMER CHAMPIONSHIP DESIGN
The Orchid Island Golf Course is a renowned Arnold Palmer-designed championship course that offers a challenging yet playable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Set within a Certified Audubon Sanctuary, the course features stunning natural landscapes where wildlife sightings are common during play. The course's proximity to the ocean provides beautiful views and refreshing sea breezes throughout the golfing experience.
5. Orchid Island Nature Sanctuary
BIODIVERSE ECOLOGICAL HAVEN
The Orchid Island Nature Sanctuary is a Certified Audubon Sanctuary that hosts one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems. Home to more than 1,500 wildlife species, visitors may encounter manatees, otters, ospreys, white pelicans, roseate spoonbills, and leatherback turtles in their natural habitat. The sanctuary demonstrates how humans and wildlife can coexist in harmony, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
6. Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway
HISTORIC COASTAL DRIVE
The Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway consists of connected roadways that encircle the eponymous lagoon near Orchid. Drivers and cyclists can discover some of Florida's most picturesque coastal landscapes while traveling this designated scenic route. The byway provides access to numerous natural areas, historic sites, and recreational opportunities throughout the Indian River region.
7. Historic Jungle Trail
WILD FLORIDA EXPERIENCE
The Historic Jungle Trail is a packed dirt and sand path that takes cyclists and hikers to an undeveloped, wilder side of Florida near Orchid. The trail passes through natural Florida landscapes, offering glimpses of the area as it appeared before extensive development. Visitors can enjoy the shade of native vegetation while exploring this historic pathway that connects to the broader Indian River Lagoon area.
8. Wabasso Beach Park
PUBLIC OCEANFRONT RECREATION
Wabasso Beach Park is a popular public beach destination located just south of Orchid Island. The park features a wide sandy beach with lifeguards, picnic facilities, restrooms, and outdoor showers for visitors' convenience. Beachgoers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and beachcombing along this less crowded stretch of Florida's Atlantic coastline.
9. Sexton Plaza Beach
VIBRANT COASTAL GATHERING SPOT
Sexton Plaza Beach offers a vibrant public beach experience in the heart of Vero Beach, just south of Orchid. The plaza features restaurants with ocean views, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal while watching the waves roll in. Visitors appreciate the convenient parking, clean facilities, and the iconic Vero Beach boardwalk that provides easy beach access.
10. Vero Beach Museum of Art
CULTURAL RIVERSIDE TREASURE
The Vero Beach Museum of Art stands as the principal visual arts facility on Florida's Treasure Coast near Orchid Island. The museum houses several galleries featuring rotating exhibitions of international, national, and regional importance, as well as a permanent collection. Visitors can also enjoy sculpture gardens, art classes, lectures, and special events that celebrate visual arts and culture throughout the year.
11. Vero Beach Municipal Marina
BOATING GATEWAY DESTINATION
The Vero Beach Municipal Marina provides a full-service facility for boaters exploring the waters around Orchid and Vero Beach. Located on the Indian River Lagoon, the marina offers transient slips, fuel services, and amenities for visitors arriving by water. Boaters appreciate its convenient location near restaurants, shops, and attractions in downtown Vero Beach.
12. John's Island Club - West Course
EXCLUSIVE GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The John's Island Club - West Course offers an exclusive golfing experience near Orchid Island. Designed by renowned golf architect Tom Fazio, this private course features challenging holes set amid native Florida landscapes and water features. Members and guests enjoy impeccable course conditions, attentive service, and beautiful surroundings throughout their round.
13. Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
AMERICA'S FIRST WILDLIFE REFUGE
Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge holds the distinction of being America's first national wildlife refuge, established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Located near Orchid in the Indian River Lagoon, the refuge protects critical habitat for pelicans, wood storks, egrets, and numerous other bird species. Visitors can explore observation trails, boardwalks, and viewing platforms that provide excellent wildlife watching opportunities throughout the year.
14. Environmental Learning Center
HANDS-ON LAGOON EDUCATION
The Environmental Learning Center provides an interactive educational experience focused on the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem near Orchid Island. Visitors can explore exhibits, touch tanks, and nature trails that showcase the unique flora and fauna of this important ecological area. The center offers guided tours, kayak excursions, and educational programs designed to foster appreciation for Florida's natural resources.
15. McKee Botanical Garden
HISTORIC TROPICAL PARADISE
McKee Botanical Garden preserves a historic 18-acre tropical landscape just a short drive from Orchid Island. Originally opened in 1932 as McKee Jungle Gardens, this lush paradise features native plants, tropical vegetation, and historic structures amid winding pathways and water features. Visitors can admire the garden's collection of waterlilies, admire stunning orchid displays, and discover the rich cultural history of this restored Florida landmark.