Banner with HarbourRidge E-Magazine
Banner with HarbourRidge E-Magazine

To an outsider, many Florida Golf Clubs may appear similar at first glance. They boast golf courses, a variety of amenities, and a vibrant clubhouse. Yet on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Members of Harbour Ridge often discover that there is much more than meets the eye. Nestled on 885 beautifully wooded acres at the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, this private yacht and country club community is a hidden gem with unparalleled allure. With its intimate community design and mature natural landscapes, residents enjoy a carefree social lifestyle surrounded by the natural beauty of an amazing waterfront shoreline. But it’s not just the community’s unmatched connection with nature that makes this gated country club community unique. Here are some things you might not have known about Harbour Ridge.

harbour ridge members playing on the waterfront golf course living the Florida Golf Club Lifestyle

1. Rare Waterfront Championship Golf

As one of the only Clubs in the area with two championship golf courses, Harbour Ridge welcomes golfers of all skill levels to experience nature’s beauty while putting their skills to the test. The River Ridge is a Pete & P.B. Dye-designed par-72 course that winds through natural wetlands, high bluffs, and towering trees to overlook the quiet waters of the St. Lucie River. Designed by Bobby Weed, Golden Marsh is set amidst a 20-acre nature preserve, surrounded by natural lakes and marshes that add both an element of beauty and challenge to the course. Both courses have proudly maintained their status as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” since 2000, showcasing the Club’s dedication to preserving Florida’s natural resources.

birds flying all around the Harbour Ridge Rookery - Florida Golf Club Lifestyle

2. A National Geographic-Worthy Rookery

Perhaps one of the most awe-inspiring nature spots at Harbour Ridge, the Rookery is one of the largest in the state of Florida. This collection of mangroves nestled along the St. Lucie River serves as a shelter and feeding spot for an abundance of egrets and other birds. Each morning like clockwork, these birds fly off in one large flock at sunrise and return at sunset. Harbour Ridge residents look forward to watching the birds move in a cloud of white feathers every day. The amount of birds that choose to rest here is so substantial that scientists from the National Audubon Society use the Rookery to measure the population of certain species and the health of the surrounding ecosystem.

Downtown Stuart Florida Boardwalk - Florida Golf Club Lifestyle

3. Private Water Shuttle to Downtown Stuart

Situated on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, Harbour Ridge enjoys premier waterfront access, with three private marinas providing a combined total of 98 slips for boats up to 80 feet in length. With abundant waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and entertainment opportunities on Florida’s Treasure Coast, the Club’s private water shuttle, with a personal boat captain transporting residents from their homes to the vibrant Downtown Stuart area. Members relish the convenience of hopping onto the shuttle from the Clubhouse and leisurely cruising down the river to their dinner destination, without the worry of designating a driver.

Harbour Ridge walking along the water living the Florida Golf Club Lifestyle

4. Endless Exploration with Stunning Views

Being active and engaged with nature has never felt more effortless. A picturesque two-mile walking trail along the riverfront is a picturesque way to explore the community and its rare surrounding environment. Residents, however, aren’t the only ones who get to enjoy waterfront living. Freedom and fun are unleashed for “puppies” of all sizes at the Harbour Ridge dog park. Here, furry friends enjoy on and off-leash puppy play time on agility courses, shaded areas, and walking trails.

Harbour Ridge Fitness Pilates

5. Inspiring Fitness Regimes

Whether residents are interested in strength training or racquet sports, the 22,000-square-foot Lakeside Amenity Center makes it easy to stay in shape. A full range of cardio and strength training equipment is available, including TRX, aerobics classes, Pilates, yoga, spin, and water aerobics at the aquatics center. Harbour Ridge’s tennis facility is also nationally ranked, with nine Har-Tru tennis courts and eight pickleball courts filled with weekly socials, round-robin tournaments, and more.

Inside the Harbour Ridge Spa and Treatment Center

6. Innovative Spa Treatments

The Lakeside Amenity Center also boasts a full-service spa, offering European-style services for the whole family. Alongside traditional massage treatments and rejuvenating facials, the spa features a salt therapy chamber renowned for its soothing effects on skin and respiratory conditions. A full-service hair and nail salon, along with a barber studio, offer Members a relaxing pampering experience just a golf cart ride away.

Harbour Ridge Members gathering outside party

7. A Welcoming Membership

Surrounded by like-minded individuals who share similar interests and values, private golf clubs provide ample opportunities to socialize, forge new friendships, and take part in a variety of community events and activities. Harbour Ridge’s year-round event calendar is carefully designed to create social connections. The Clubhouse serves as the vibrant hub of these events, hosting everything from live entertainment and dances to happy hours at the waterfront bar. The Clubhouse is also home to many Member-organized special-interest clubs, including stitchery, artisans, cards, birding, and a yacht club.

Harbour Ridge Aerial of Marina

Florida’s Premier Private Golf Club Community

Located on the St. Lucie River, the “Private by Nature” waterfront location of Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club makes this the premier golf community on Florida’s Treasure Coast. Just a short boat ride or 10-minute drive away, residents are in close proximity to the lively Downtown Stuart, with delectable restaurants, boutique shopping, and year-round events to enjoy. Just 40 minutes to the south, The Palm Beaches offer even more to enjoy, including the Gardens Mall and world-famous Worth Avenue.

The wide variety of homes for sale within the Harbour Ridge community offers varying price points and styles to suit every need. Move-in-ready rental residences are also available for seasonal Members. For more information, the complimentary digital brochure shares an even closer look at the amenities and lifestyles offered within this waterfront community. Visit HarbourRidge.com or call 772-336-3000 for more information.

With year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and plenty of water to splash in, the Treasure Coast is a beloved destination for furry friends from around the globe. Fortunately for their owners, this section along Florida’s Atlantic coastline is just as welcoming to two-legged companions. From ample dog-friendly parks and restaurants to natural water parks and beaches, the Treasure Coast welcomes every Member of the family. See which local hot spots are fan favorites on the Treasure Coast, achieving “Top Dog” status.

Walton Rocks Off-Leash Public Beach

Walton Rocks Off-Leash Public Beach

Located on Hutchinson Island just north of Jensen Beach, Walton Rocks Beach is not only a great surf spot but also a favored destination for dog owners. This off-leash beach access spans 24 acres, giving pets plenty of room to enjoy the sand or splash in the waves. The beach is open from sunrise to sunset, ensuring ample time for dogs to socialize and make new friends.

Dog exploring Halpatiokee Regional Park Trails

Woof-Worthy Halpatiokee Regional Park Trails

Halpatiokee Regional Park in Stuart is the largest park in Martin County, offering plenty of natural green space for fur babies and puppers to roam and play. Owners and their dogs can embark on an adventure through the park’s many hiking trails, which wind through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, scrub, and river land. A public dog park area features designated separate sections for small and large dogs, complete with an agility course.

Dog on the beach along the Treasure Coast

Area Beaches – Pooch Paradise

Stuart Beach is a top choice for dog owners in search of some fun in the sun, sand, and surf. Dogs on leashes are welcome at any unguarded beach access, including popular spots like Santa Lucea Beach, Tiger Shores, Ross Witham Beach, and Bob Graham Park. The beaches along this section of Atlantic coastline are open from sunrise to sunset, with crystal-clear waters and gentle waves ideal for dogs to cool off on a hot summer day. Waste stations and bags are provided to help keep the beach clean and enjoyable for everyone.

dogs running at Harbour Ridge

Tail-Wagging Members Welcome at Harbour Ridge

Freedom and fun are unleashed for “puppies” of all sizes at Harbour Ridge, a private yacht and country club community along the North Fork of the St. Lucie River. With a fun-loving community of pet-friendly residents, Harbour Ridge offers a spectacular natural environment for Members and their furry companions to thrive. The community’s private dog park is just a golf cart ride away from a wide array of single-family homes, condominiums, and townhomes, all nestled amongst the lakes and fairways of two beautiful championship golf courses. The dog parks are open daily and feature both on- and off-leash play areas, agility courses, fenced and shaded spots, and water stations. Better yet, residents can take a leisurely stroll with their pups along the two-mile nature trail, which winds through natural wetlands and offers stunning views of the St. Lucie River and the community’s three private marinas.

Harbour Ridge family on the water with dog

Waterfront Golf & Boating Community

Harbour Ridge’s pet-friendly lifestyle is just the beginning of the resort-style amenities that make this private residential club unlike any other. Harbour Ridge offers the very best of boating and golf course living in Florida. The private club community is home to two USGA-recognized, Audubon certified championship golf courses designed to maximize the community’s unique natural setting. The 45,000-square-foot Clubhouse is the heart of Harbour Ridge, where Members enjoy a full calendar of events and delicious waterfront dining. At the community’s Lakeside Club, Members can focus on health and wellness, tennis or pickleball and enjoy a full-service spa, relaxing pool, and spacious fitness facility with physical therapists on hand. Harbour Ridge is also home to three private marinas, with a combined 98 slips for boats up to 80 feet in length. An active calendar of events keeps resident Members active with everything from fishing and golf tournaments to waterfront dinners.

The wide variety of homes for sale within the Harbour Ridge community offers varying price points and styles to suit every need. All single-family homes and condominiums have stunning views of the St. Lucie River, lakes golf courses or nature preserves. Move-in-ready rental residences are also available for seasonal residents. Our complimentary digital brochure shares an even closer look at the amenities and lifestyle offered within this waterfront community. Visit HarbourRidge.com or call 772-336-3000 for more information.

From seasoned sports fishermen who love to cast a line to beginners anticipating their first catch, Stuart, Florida is a haven for fishing enthusiasts from around the world. With one of the densest populations of sailfish in the world, this coastal town along Florida’s Atlantic Coast has garnered notoriety as the “Sailfish Capital of the World.” However, Stuart’s waters offer much more than sailfish, with dozens of species providing action and excitement year-round. Let’s explore some of the area’s best catches.

Stuart Fishing Hotspots

Between the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and Indian River Lagoon, anglers have access to a wide world of offshore and inshore opportunities. For those wishing to challenge the open ocean’s catches, many charter boats are available to help find game fish like mackerel, sailfish, and mahi mahi. Connecting the St. Lucie River to the Atlantic Ocean, the St. Lucie Inlet is also a popular offshore hotspot. Strong currents and deep waters make it perfect for catching snapper, grouper, kingfish, and tarpon. At the Jensen Beach Causeway, anglers can cast their line from shore, a boat, or several fishing piers nearby to catch snook, tarpon, and redfish along the Indian River Lagoon. For a more relaxed fishing experience, take a flats boat or kayak through Sailfish Flats. These shallower estuary waters are teeming with redfish, snook, tarpon, and trout.

local stuart florida fisherman

Which Season is the Best to Cast a Line?

While Stuart boasts truly great fishing all year round, the best season to catch fish depends on what anglers are targeting. Sailfish migrate during the winter months, making mid-November through mid-February prime season. Winter is also popular for catching kingfish, blackfin tuna, and wahoo. Spring provides plentiful opportunities to catch snook, redfish and trout, while summer is the peak season for catching marlin and tarpon. Finally, fall is an excellent time to catch tuna, swordfish, and mahi mahi.

An Ideal Home Port Along the Treasure Coast

In the world of fishing, there are no more enviable locations to launch from than the Harbour Ridge Marina. Situated along the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, Harbour Ridge’s shoreline encompasses two miles of pristine riverfront, ensuring residents enjoy the well-rounded waterfront lifestyle that the Treasure Coast is known for. Three private marinas provide a combined 98 slips that range from 24 to 80 feet long. For the non-boaters in the community, the estuary shoreline is also a haven for anglers, as the river is teeming with redfish, snook, tarpon, and trout. Harbour Ridge is also a proud Member of the prestigious Florida Council of Yacht Clubs, providing Members with multiple club privileges throughout Florida. Members can take advantage of amenities offered at 36 private Clubs from Marathon to Pensacola without the cost of paying their dues. The Council also sponsors cruises to the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Alaska, and more at competitive prices.

“The camaraderie of boaters at Harbour Ridge is unmatched,” shared Harbour Ridge Member and Past Yacht Club Commodore Dorothy Bousquet. “Boaters always watch out for each other, especially out on the water. It’s nice to see everybody, where they’ve traveled with their boat, and to hear their stories.”

aerial of the Harbour Ridge Community in Palm City Florida

Set Sail With Friends at the Harbour Ridge Yacht Club

The Harbour Ridge Marina is not only the launch point for a wide range of water-based activities, but also a social centerpiece that brings together boat lovers of all ages. The Yacht Club’s endless social calendar provides a welcoming atmosphere for Members to enjoy, including day and evening cruises, annual fishing contests, “docktail” parties, and much more. Harbour Ridge also offers a private Water Shuttle, with a personal boat captain transporting Members from their homes to the vibrant Downtown Stuart area for dinner or a show.

“The yacht club’s purpose is to not only promote water activities, but also provide educational opportunities on the health of our waterways,” shared Bousquet. “We have social activities and day cruises that people from their 50s up into their 90s can enjoy. Last year, we also brought in the Coast Guard Auxiliary to inspect the boats in our marina and share information about how discharge can affect our local waterways. This year, Harbour Ridge was also in charge of the Blessing of the Fleet for the whole Stuart area. We do a lot of things and there’s always something fun happening.”

Stuart Florida Locals at Harbour Ridge yacht club

A Premier Private Club Community

Harbour Ridge offers the very best of boating and golf course living. Along with the private marinas, the 45,000-square-foot Clubhouse is the heart of the community. Residents can also entertain themselves at the Lakeside Lifestyle Center, home to an exceptional tennis program with nine Har-Tru courts and eight pickleball courts, a spacious fitness center with physical therapy, an aquatics center, and a full-service salon. Harbour Ridge is also home to two USGA-recognized championship golf courses designed with tropical charm and sweeping vistas.

Harbour Ridge Private Club inside

The wide variety of homes for sale within the Harbour Ridge community offers varying price points and styles to suit every need. All single-family homes and condominiums have stunning views of the St. Lucie River, lakes golf courses or nature preserves. Move-in-ready rental residences are also available for seasonal residents. For more information, the complimentary digital brochure shares an even closer look at the amenities and lifestyles offered within this waterfront community. Visit HarbourRidge.com or call 772-336-3000 for more information.

While South Florida has been luring golfers with year-round play for decades, a renewed appreciation for the sport during the pandemic has brought about a new wave of growth. The National Golf Foundation recently released that 41.1 million players hit the links in 2022, with a record 3.3 million players joining the game for the first time. As the interest in golf rises nationwide, playing in Florida has become the hottest new commodity. Home to nearly 70 golf courses within a 20-mile radius, Florida’s Treasure Coast is the state’s epicenter of golf activity. Social beginners and avid golfers alike enjoy some of the nation’s best links, many designed by legends of the game. Let’s take a closer look at some of the Treasure Coast’s top golfing destinations.

Favored Treasure Coast Golf Destinations

A highly desired area for golf aficionados, long waitlists have led to many visitors being locked out of private golf options. Luckily, the Treasure Coast is home to public and daily-fee semi-private courses for all skill levels. Sailfish Sands is a cherished public course in Stuart and was just renovated to include an 18-hole championship course, and an innovative reversible nine. Hammock Creek Golf Club in Palm City is a daily-fee course, with five sets of tees for all skill levels. Florida’s Treasure Coast is also filled with golf destinations that are attracting golfers to the game in innovative ways. In Stuart, the Shores of North River Golf Club provides a par-66, Arthur Young-designed course where southern oak and pine trees accentuate the Old Florida landscape. With high demand and high levels of play, however, overcrowding has become an issue at many of these public and semi-private options.

Rare Waterfront Championship Golf

For the avid golfer, there’s no better way to enjoy the beauty of Florida’s Treasure Coast than on Harbour Ridge’s championship golf courses. This private yacht and country club along the North Fork of the St. Lucie River is one of the only Clubs in the area with two championship golf courses. The River Ridge is a Pete & P.B. Dye-designed par-72 course that winds through natural wetlands, high bluffs, and towering trees to overlook the quiet waters of the St. Lucie River. Designed by Bobby Weed, Golden Marsh is set amidst a 20-acre nature preserve, surrounded by natural lakes and marshes that add both an element of beauty and challenge to the course.

sun over the Florida Golf Course at Harbour Ridge

Members not only appreciate the natural sanctuary each course provides, but also the varying tees that provide fun for all ages. “Both courses have five sets of tees, which is great for golfers of all skill levels,” shared Harbour Ridge Member Jeff Steinberg. “There are many different golf groups that play at different handicaps. The Pro Shop does a great job pairing you up with people who match your skill levels, and generally your group all plays from the same tees.”

PGA Professionals Help Perfect Your Swing

Off the greens, Harbour Ridge Members enjoy an expansive practice facility that mimics every element of the courses, including a double-sided practice range, multiple short game areas, and a large practice putting green. A full team of PGA Professionals coordinates golf training, group clinics, and full swing schools for beginners and advanced players alike. Along with teaching how to perfect Members’ swings, the team also plans numerous tournaments and social events to ensure fun for every skill level. Organized weekly events, holiday tournaments, and over 25 years of major championship traditions guarantees Members enjoy plentiful memorable moments throughout the year.

PGA Florida Golf Professionals

Assistant General Manager and Director of Golf Joe Beezup agrees that PGA Professionals are all working towards one common goal- to take care of the Members. “We have five Class-A PGA Professionals, two Associates, and a PGA Professional who is our merchandiser on staff at Harbour Ridge,” shared Beezup. “We all work together to provide the best experience for our Members, and everyone has aspirations to make it further into the private club industry.”

Custom Golf Club Fittings

For those looking to hit the links for the first time, finding the proper golf clubs are a crucial first step. The Golf Shop at Harbour Ridge is home to innovative technologies that assist in equipment purchasing decisions. Members can reserve a fitting session, where the Club’s Master Fitter Dan Ridgway would assess Member’s strengths and abilities. From there, the Eagle’s Bay Indoor Golf Simulator is used to set up the proper gear. Powered by GC Hawk technology, this innovative indoor space utilizes an overhead-mounted launch monitor to provide the game’s most accurate performance data. After picking the clubs, Members can head to the outdoor driving range, where Trackman technologies allow Ridgway and his team to properly assess which clubs are the best fit for Members’ individualized game.

man in a golf simulator

“A fitting consists of finding the right shaft, length, and grip size that best meets a Member’s playing style,” shared Beezup. “Combining top brands like Ping, Callaway, and TaylorMade with the innovative GC Hawk and TrackMan technologies ensures our Members have access to the best resources necessary to build a more efficient golf game.”

An Enviable Waterfront Lifestyle

Harbour Ridge’s two championship golf courses are just one of the resort-style amenities that make the private residential country club lifestyle at Harbour Ridge second to none. Harbour Ridge offers the very best of boating and golf course living. The 45,000-square-foot Clubhouse is the heart of our community, where residents can focus on health and wellness with the tennis program, full-service spa, aquatics center, and spacious fitness facility with physical therapists on hand. Harbour Ridge is also home to three private marinas, with a combined 98 slips for boats up to 80 feet in length. An active calendar of events keeps resident Members active with everything from fishing and golf tournaments to waterfront dinners.

aerial of Harbour Ridge Community

The wide variety of homes for sale within the Harbour Ridge community offers varying price points and styles to suit every need. All single-family homes and condominiums have stunning views of the St. Lucie River, lakes golf courses or nature preserves. Move-in-ready rental residences are also available for seasonal residents. Our complimentary digital brochure shares an even closer look at the amenities and lifestyle offered within this waterfront community. Visit HarbourRidge.com or call 772-336-3000 for more information.

We are excited to welcome Simone Vasconcellos – Calves back onto our team as the tennis professional at Harbour Ridge! Originally from Brazil, Simone has cultivated an impressive tennis career that spans across the globe. Simone has been coming to Harbour Ridge for the winter for the past four years. This time, Simone is back for winter and plans to stay throughout the entire year. Continue reading to learn more about Simone’s accolades as a tennis professional and the Racquet Sports Program at Harbour Ridge.

Simone Vasconcellos – Calves, Tennis Professional

Simone Vasconcellos – Calves, Tennis Professional

Simone started playing tennis at the tender age of 10 years old in her native Santos, SP, Brazil where she followed in her brother’s footsteps. She played junior events throughout her earlier years with great success. She won several junior events in her region in Sao Paulo and got a ranking of first-class player in Brazil by the age of 18. She tried playing in the pro circuit, starting with low-tier ITF events and WTA where she reached the 700s in singles and 600s in doubles.

It was in her senior years on the ITF senior tour where she excelled the most reaching the top spot ranking in her age category in the 40s and 45s. Simone reached the #1 spot player in the 50 and over category by the International Tennis Federation (ITF). She has played all over the world and in several world championships, both representing Brazil in team events and as a singles and doubles player.

She has also won the South American Tennis Championships several times in addition to being Brazilian champion in all senior categories from the 35s to the 40s and 45s and now the 50s. She has also been ranked in the top 3 in the world in ladies’ doubles. She has won several tennis events in her native Brazil, as well as in Peru, Argentina, and Ecuador. In world championships, she has won bronze medals in Spain, and the USA (San Diego), as well as in the games in Turkey.

ranked in the top 3 in the world in ladies’ doubles. She has won several tennis events in her native Brazil, as well as in Peru, Argentina, and Ecuador. In world championships, she has won bronze medals in Spain, and the USA (San Diego), as well as in the games in Turkey.

In addition to her tennis playing achievements, she has been teaching tennis since 1992 at Winner Team in Santos, Brazil, where she has developed several world-class junior players and many others who were granted tennis scholarships to US universities. Simone also works with tennis on several fronts, from directing tennis events to Beach Tennis, and worked at the Rio Olympic Games as a tennis umpire. She has also taken several junior teams to places around the world where they represented Brazil in junior tennis competitions, from South America to the USA and Japan.

She has been named the “Best Tennis Female Senior Player” in Brazil on more than two occasions by the Brazilian Tennis Confederation and the Sao Paulo Tennis Federation. Most recently, she reached the #2 spot in the singles Ladies Senior 55 and over rankings category with the International Tennis Federation.

Get to Know the Other Pros on the Courts of Harbour Ridge

Fabio Vasconcellos, Director of Racquet Sports

Simone looks forward to another winter on the courts alongside her brother Fabio Vasconcellos, Director of Racquet Sports at Harbour Ridge. Fabio was born in Brazil where his junior years ranking lead him to a full scholarship at Limestone College, South Carolina. Upon graduation with a Physical Education degree, Fabio joined the Tennis Program in 1988 and began a career that has taken him around the world directing tennis programs at first-class resorts and clubs. He is also certified as a USPTA Professional and is fluent in three languages.

Joining the team in 2017, Fabio has been an instrumental player in the expansion of the Racquet Sports Program at Harbour Ridge since the opening of the pickleball facilities in December 2021.

Fabio Vasconcellos, Director of Racquet Sports
Sophie Tazzioli, Tennis/Pickleball Professional

Sophie Tazzioli, Tennis/Pickleball Professional

Sophie Tazzioli joined the Harbour Ridge Team in 2022 as a Tennis and Pickleball Professional. Sophie grew up in Ireland and discovered her love for tennis at an early age. She picked up a pickleball paddle after moving to the U.S. and after playing casually for several years, decided to pursue it as a career. “I love getting to teach a new sport like pickleball to someone who has never played it before, there is something very rewarding about seeing someone find joy in the sports that you do,” says Sophie.

Aerial of the Racquet Sports Program at Harbour Ridge

A Premier Private Club Community

Harbour Ridge offers the very best of boating and golf course living. Along with the Clubhouse, residents can entertain themselves at the Lakeside Lifestyle Center, with nine Har-Tru courts, eight pickleball courts, a spacious fitness center, a full-service spa, a barbershop, and physical therapy. Harbour Ridge also features two USGA recognized championship golf courses: The River Ridge, a Pete & P.B. Dye-designed course with tropical landscapes and vistas that can be played from any of the five sets of tees, and the Golden Marsh, a Bobby Weed-designed course with tropical charm, swaying palms, and sweeping vistas. Three private marinas on-site provide a combined total of 98 slips for boats up to 80 feet in length. \

The wide variety of homes for sale within the Harbour Ridge community offers varying price points and styles to suit every need. All single-family homes and condominiums have stunning views of the St. Lucie River, lakes golf courses, or nature preserves. Move-in-ready rental residences are also available for seasonal residents. Our complimentary digital brochure shares an even closer look at the amenities and lifestyle offered within this waterfront community. Visit HarbourRidge.com or call 772-336-3000 for more information.

lois fraser headshot with birding camera

Surrounded by vast nature preserves along the North Fork of the idyllic St. Lucie River, Harbour Ridge has become a magnet for not only an abundance of wildlife, but also nature lovers worldwide. From manatees and otters in the estuary waters to southern bald eagles nesting along the two championship golf courses, this private Club on Florida’s Treasure Coast takes pride in preserving the area’s natural beauty, retaining its designation as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” since 2000.

Resident nature photographer Lois Fraser has been capturing the magic of Harbour Ridge for the past 11 years. After buying her first “real” camera when she moved from Cincinnati, her involvement in the Harbour Ridge Birding Society, or The Birders, allowed her passions for both photography and nature to flourish. Let’s learn more about the natural neighbors that are a part of everyday life at Harbour Ridge, and the Members who enjoy observing them.

Meet The Birders

As one of the many special-interest clubs available to Harbour Ridge Members, The Birders are an easygoing group that cherish getting outdoors to explore the natural beauty that surrounds them. With over 200 households as members, the diverse estuarine environment provides them with the closest thing to actually living in a nature preserve. No wildlife knowledge is required to join, and many people participate in bird walks on Monday afternoons to spot as many different species as they can.

“The best thing that I’ve become involved in was the Harbour Ridge Birding Society,” shared Fraser. “When I first joined, I didn’t know very much about birds at all, but I’ve learned so much since then. Our Birders cherish getting out in nature, enjoying a beautiful afternoon or morning stroll observing all the wildlife.”

birds taking flight in harbour ridge at sunset

4,000 Florida Birds Take Flight at the Rookery

Perhaps one of the most awe-inspiring nature spots for The Birders, the Rookery is one of the largest in the state of Florida. This collection of mangroves nestled along the St. Lucie River serves as a shelter and a feeding spot for an abundance of egrets and other birds. Each morning like clockwork, these birds fly off in one large flock at sunrise and return at sunset. Harbour Ridge residents look forward to watching the birds move in a cloud of white feathers every day. The amount of birds that choose to rest here is so substantial that scientists from the National Audubon Society use the Rookery to measure the population of certain species and the health of the surrounding ecosystem.

“Every year, there’s a group of people who count the birds in the rookery at Harbour Ridge, which is a daunting task,” said Fraser. “There are close to 4,000 birds out there every night in the Winter. It’s less during the Summer, but it’s still a spectacle. People always ask: ‘isn’t it noisy?’ And, well, not really – the frogs make more noise than the birds.”

Wildlife Adventures Beyond the Nest

While Harbour Ridge is a beautiful setting for The Birders, Members also take smaller group trips to other renowned wildlife destinations. Every year, there’s a day trip to the Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach, where 50 acres of wetlands provide an up close and personal view of hundreds of bird species. The Birders also plan at least one overnight trip a year to other locations within Florida and have even gone to Panama and Costa Rica in the past.

mother and baby birds at harbour ridge in stuart

Harbour Ridge Clubs for Every Interest

The Birders are just one of the many opportunities Harbour Ridge Members have to get involved in a hobby or club that interests them. The elegant 45,000-square-foot waterfront Clubhouse stands at the heart of it all, with an endless mix of member-organized clubs for every lifestyle. Artists can get creative at the Artisans Club or Stitchery or inspire others through music with the Chorale. Set sail for an adventure with the Kayak and Yacht Clubs or enjoy laughter and friendly competition with the cards and mah jongg clubs. No matter what Members enjoy, they will surely find a friendly, welcoming community.

“We came to Harbour Ridge thinking: ‘How are we going to meet people? Will it be easy?’ Then months into it, we’re like, ‘How are we going to find time to do things with all these amazing people that we’ve met?’ We feel fortunate every day that we’ve been here.”

aerial of harbour ridge community

A Premier Private Club Community

Harbour Ridge offers the very best of boating and golf course living. Along with the Clubhouse, residents can entertain themselves at the Lakeside Lifestyle Center, home to nine Har-Tru courts, eight pickleball courts, a spacious fitness center, a full-service spa, a barbershop, and physical therapy. Harbour Ridge also features two USGA recognized championship golf courses: The River Ridge, a Pete & P.B. Dye-designed course with tropical landscapes and vistas that can be played from any of the five sets of tees, and the Golden Marsh, a Bobby Weed-designed course with tropical charm, swaying palms, and sweeping vistas. Three private marinas on-site provide a combined total of 98 slips for boats up to 80 feet in length.

The wide variety of homes for sale within the Harbour Ridge community offers varying price points and styles to suit every need. All single-family homes and condominiums have stunning views of the St. Lucie River, lakes golf courses, or nature preserves. Move-in-ready rental residences are also available for seasonal residents. Our complimentary digital brochure shares an even closer look at the amenities and lifestyle offered within this waterfront community. Visit HarbourRidge.com or call 772-336-3000 for more information.

The stretch of Florida coastline just to the north of The Palm Beaches is making national news once again. A new article just released from Wall Street Journal’s lifestyle section explores the unique attractions that draw visitors to four small towns along Florida’s Treasure Coast – Stuart, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, and Sebastian. Writers Valerie Stivers and Hank Zona share, “It’s not just the beaches that draw visitors, but also the small towns along the ocean – each with its own distinctive culture.”

amphitheater and boathouse restaurant in downtown stuart

The Wall Street Journal article named Stuart “The New Gold,” and described the area as “an old-fashioned town where zoning has preserved water views and mom-and-pop businesses.” Afterward, the article provides a local’s perspective on all the excitement waiting to be discovered within this Treasure Coast gem, including beaches, activities, restaurants, and the best take-home souvenirs. If you missed the article, here’s your chance.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Spending time at the spa is a relaxing experience we all can enjoy. Rejuvenating massages and clarifying facials are few of many treatments where you can immerse yourself in total serenity. For Members at Harbour Ridge, it’s a mere golf cart ride through the neighborhood to enjoy these inspiring experiences. See how the on-site Lakeside private Spa and Salon bring out the best in Harbour Ridge Members.

Indulge in Rejuvenating Treatments

Members escape from reality with a wide variety of resort-inspired spa treatments. Traditional spa treatments encourage Members to abandon all stress at the door and bask in the comfort and tranquility of true relaxation. Ease any tension with a deep-tissue or Swedish massage by the hands of an expert masseuse. An extensive menu of facials allow Members to live their day to day lives with a subtle glow. In addition to fabulous treatments, the Spa and Salon has various skincare and haircare products available for purchase. Use these high-end products in the spa and proceed to continue this newfound beauty regimen in the comfort of home.

“I’ve never felt more relaxed than I do at Harbour Ridge’s spa,” says Member, Susanne Daniels. “Whenever I need to relieve any stress, I just stop right by!”

harbour ridge member getting a massage at the private spa

Innovative New Treatments

Incorporating innovative services, Members can undergo salt therapy and aromatherapy treatments. Renowned for soothing skin and respiratory conditions, salt therapy is a natural treatment that disperses salt particles in the air. Similar to salt therapy, aromatherapy is a holistic treatment where essential oils are released into the air enhancing a person’s physical and emotional health. These services have a reputation among Members for being peaceful, tranquil and calming. Both treatments are known for having significant benefits on physical, mental and spiritual health. For any Members searching to explore more innovative treatments, the spa and salon also offer teeth whitening and Botox.

woman at the Harbour Ridge Private Spa and Salon

Style Enhancing Salon Services

Whether it’s just a routine hair trim or a total makeover, Members enjoy enhancing their style at the full-service hair salon. The haircare professionals provide a relaxing and convenient environment for Members. Harbour Ridge Member, Jeanine Davenport, raves about her experience at the salon. “Everyone who helped me was so wonderful. They really know how to make you feel great and look great at the same time!”

For men seeking a fresh cut or shave, the barber studio awaits. Alongside top-of-the-line hair care, the high-end nail salon specializes in the very best of cuticle care. Manicure or pedicure services are delivered in contemporary style in the privacy of the secluded setting. With professionals that feel more like old friends, the salon creates a welcoming space for all Harbour Ridge Members.

exterior of the clubhouse at Harbour Ridge

Florida’s Treasure Coast’s Premier Private Club Community

Located on the St. Lucie River, the “Private by Nature” waterfront location of Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club makes this the premier golf community on Florida’s Treasure Coast. The 45,000-square-foot Clubhouse is the heart of the community, where residents can focus on health and wellness with the tennis program, aquatics center, and spacious fitness facility with physical therapists on hand. Harbour Ridge is also home to three private marinas, with a combined 98 slips for boats up to 80 feet in length. Just a short boat ride to the quaint waterfront entertainment district of Downtown Stuart, with delectable restaurants, boutique shopping, and year-round events to enjoy. Just 40 minutes to the south, The Palm Beaches offer designer shopping at the Gardens Mall, City Plaza and world-famous Worth Avenue.

The wide variety of homes for sale within the Harbour Ridge community offers varying price points and styles to suit every need. Single-family homes, townhomes or condominiums have stunning views either the St. Lucie River, lakes, golf or nature preserves. Move-in-ready rental residences are also available for seasonal residents. For more information, the complimentary digital brochure shares an even closer look at the lifestyles offered within this private club community. Visit HarbourRidge.com or call 772-336-3000 for more information.