Although Florida is a popular retirement destination, retirees searching for a more tranquil and cozier coastal environment should check out Vero Beach in Florida’s Treasure Coast.
Climate and Lifestyle
Vero Beach appeals to many retirees because of its tropical climate and laid-back lifestyle. The city, which was recently named as one of the finalists for Coastal Living Magazine’s “America’s Happiest Seaside Town” contest, retains its small-town charm thanks to its prime location along Florida’s Atlantic Coast.
It offers retirees a sophisticated and low-key atmosphere, uncrowded oceanside beaches, historic architecture, and rich cultural attractions. Unlike other larger cities in Florida, Vero Beach has low traffic and there aren’t many high-rise condo buildings blocking scenic views.
Vero Beach is a cozy beach town that offers “a blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, cultural sophistication, and outstanding amenities,” says Karen Mathers, Realtor e-Pro at Keller Williams Realty and 55places.com. “If you seek wonderful weather, Vero Beach is located below Florida’s freeze-line and close to the ocean, and is known for having beautiful winter weather,” she says.
Thanks to the warm weather and the city’s prime location along the Treasure Coast, residents can easily enjoy the outdoor environment all year long. Vero Beach has miles of pristine coastline offering tropical breezes and majestic ocean views that allow retirees to relax while watching a pleasant sunset or indulge in a wide selection of outdoor recreation and water sports.
Attractions
The Indian River Lagoon, which passes through Vero Beach, is part of the Intracoastal Waterway and is a major hot spot for boating, fishing, water skiing, diving, kayaking, and small-craft waterborne activities. “Much of Indian River County’s high quality of life is traceable to its 26 miles of beautiful beaches, plentiful parks, and wildlife areas,” says Mathers.
Vero Beach also offers more than just beaches and water activities. The area has plenty of nature and wildlife tours, museums, art galleries, and parks. Outdoor enthusiasts can check out the area’s ecotours on airboats along the St. Johns River or a marshland tour through the Blue Cypress Conservation Area to view wildlife in their natural habitat.
The area is home to alligators and freshwater fish as well as a diverse bird population of about 310 species, perfect for birdwatchers. Active adults who prefer to absorb some culture can check out Vero Beach Museum of Art, McKee Botanical Garden, Old Macedonia Colored Church, Indian River Citrus Museum, Vero Beach Art Club, or the Indian River County Historical Society.
“For theater lovers, Riverside Theatre offers 633 seats with a full season of professional entertainment, including Broadway plays, comedians, and musical events,” says Mathers. And when the grandkids come to visit, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is a family-friendly environment that’s full of outdoor recreation and activities.
Retirees also flock to Vero Beach because it has a variety of unique offerings like boutique hotels and spas as well as upscale shopping and dining in the city’s historic downtown 14th Avenue. Vero Beach is “often called one of the best-kept secrets in Florida and a perfect location to retire,” according to Mathers.
Vero Beach 55+ Communities
The city has a large population of residents over the age of 50, which means it’s equipped to offer retirees the active adult lifestyle they seek. Vero Beach has a variety of active adult communities that feature reasonably priced homes, world-class amenities, low-maintenance environments, and a rich lineup of social clubs and recreational activities.
Active adult communities like Harmony Reserve and Woodfield feature beautiful home designs, resort-style amenities, on-site activities directors, and welcoming atmospheres. “Several people have come up to me and said moving to Harmony Reserve was the best thing they ever did,” she says.
Another community that offers retirees an active lifestyle is Lakes at Waterway Village. Although not age-restricted, this community features the low-maintenance homes and amenities many active adults want in retirement.
Lakes at Waterway Village offers quality homes built by DiVosta that include spacious layouts, large kitchens, and inviting living rooms that overlook many of the lakes in the neighborhood. With so many attractions and outdoor recreation, Vero Beach has also become a popular retirement destination.
Retirees looking for a tranquil, coastal setting without the crowds and traffic like other Florida beach towns will find a variety of 55+ communities in Vero Beach to call home.
