Trying to keep to keep this seaside town a secret is becoming more and more difficult as word spreads about this coastal gem. Just over two hours up the coast from Miami sits the quiet, quaint town of Vero Beach – 26 miles of beachfront bliss along the Atlantic Ocean. Far from the hustle and bustle of the Magic City, this town has become an oasis for Miami residents, somewhat comparable to The Hamptons for Manhattanites.
In the early 2000’s, Gloria and Emilio Estefan – Miami’s “First Family” – settled on a Vero Beach oceanfront home as a getaway. Soon after, according to a recent article in The Real Deal, the Estefans also purchased the Costa D’Este Beach Resort & Spa in Vero. Carl Hiassen, well-known Florida author, also has a waterfront home in Vero Beach. More recently, numerous buyers from Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties have been purchasing residential properties. Esther Percal, a principal with EWM, says “there’s a lot of money in Vero, but it’s quiet…not flashy money.” Vero Beach has the beauty and quality of Palm Beach, without the air of pretense.
Many consider the short drive from Miami an ideal time to unwind. “By the time you get there,” says Sissy DiMaria, “you are in another world. It’s a total decompression from the stress, congestion and pace of Miami.”
Although a younger demographic has started moving to Vero Beach as a permanent residence, the area has still retained its appeal as a remote getaway for many. New upscale restaurants and bars with live music are popping up and attracting a younger crowd, but the area is still mostly private homes where people entertain and gather with neighbors.
Part of Indian River County, Vero Beach has little more than 16,000 full-time residents – with more than 25% over the age of 65. One local realtor, Cindy O’Dare, has seen a lot of people from Miami who want a second home within driving distance. “It’s an ideal weekend getaway,” O’Dare says, “we are known as the Hamptons of Florida” – albeit not nearly as pricey.
Developers are beginning to notice the allure of Vero Beach. A new townhouse development called The Surf Club will showcase 11 residences priced at an average of $2.8 million. Other premier developments include 8050 Vero Beach, an 18 unit contemporary condominium project on 5 acres and several hundred feet of ocean frontage.
Despite the growing development, many long-time residents are quick to point out the city’s restrictive zoning regulations. New buildings are limited to maximum three to five stories. Residents and city commissioners clearly do not want Vero Beach to become another Miami with its urban sprawl and soaring skyscrapers. All agree that the goal is to balance growth opportunities without destroying their quality of life.
Maybe it’s time to check out Florida’s hidden gem.
