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.”
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.
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.”
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 a Peter Burwash International-managed tennis program 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.
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.”
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.
From sunrises on the beach to fishing along the river, there are plenty of photos that highlight the typical South Florida lifestyle. At Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club however, a different kind of Florida beauty reigns supreme. Set on 885 beautifully wooded acres at the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, this private golf club community combines “Old Florida” beauty with modern state-of-the-art amenities to create a truly photo-worthy destination. Immerse yourself into the beautiful world of Harbour Ridge.
1. Audubon Certified Championship Golf
Golf lovers relish soaking in the area’s breathtaking natural beauty from the two 18-hole championship golf courses. Designed by Pete & P.B. Dye, the River Ridge course provides photo-worthy opportunities at every turn, winding through natural wetlands, high bluffs, and towering trees to overlook the quiet waters of the St. Lucie River. The Golden Marsh course, designed by Bobby Weed, 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. Each course is also a beautiful natural sanctuary for area’s wildlife, ensuring that watching sandhill cranes stride across the greens or witnessing a bobcat peer out from behind a bush are frequent occurrences. Each course has also retained its designation as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” since 2000.
2. The Waterway to Tranquility
Nestled on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, Harbour Ridge’s shoreline encompasses two miles of riverfront that beckon residents to relax and explore. The community’s eastern exposure on the River leads to breathtaking sunrises and a serene start to any day. Paddleboarding and kayaking across the estuary to downtown Stuart is a delightful way to discover aquatic wildlife up close while staring in awe at the beautiful South Florida surroundings. Three private marinas with a combined 98 slips provide the perfect launch point to enjoy incomparable fishing in the “Sailfish Capital of the World.”
3. A Clubhouse with Alluring Water Views
Situated on one of the most dramatic points of the St. Lucie River, the Clubhouse highlights the community’s serene surroundings. Guests and visitors alike are dazzled by stunning panoramic river views and cherish watching the beautiful sunset colors reflect on the estuary waters. As the social centerpiece of the community, residents will find elegant formal dining, casual indoor and outdoor dining, a sweeping outdoor terrace overlooking the river, the golf pro shop, a well-stocked library, and card rooms for daily games of bridge, Mah Jongg, and more.
4. Inspired Healthy Living
Along with the main Clubhouse, the Lakeside Amenity Center is an ideal place for a refreshing workout or to relax and soak in the Florida sunshine. Plentiful windows allow residents to take in the area’s lush tropical beauty while challenging their routine with state-of-the-art cardio, spin, and Pilates equipment. For those who prefer to exercise outdoors, nine Har-Tru tennis courts and eight pickleball courts are nationally ranked, filled with weekly socials, round-robins tournaments, and more.
5. Meet Harbour Ridge’s Natural Neighbors
With a beautiful habitat to call home, Harbour Ridge has a long history of supporting the environment and surrounding wildlife. The Rookery, a collection of mangroves along the water’s edge provides a beautiful sight to watch an abundance of egrets that take flight at sunrise and return every sunset.
6. A “Private by Nature” Country Club Community
With only 695 residences amidst an abundance of unspoiled vegetation and natural wetlands, all single-family homes and condominiums come with stunning views of the St. Lucie River, lakes, golf courses, or nature preserves. The wide variety of homes for sale offers varying price points and styles to suit every need. Move-in-ready rental residences are also available for seasonal residents.
Small Town Charm Meets Coastal Florida Living
Harbour Ridge’s natural charm, however, doesn’t stop at the community’s gates. Just a short boat ride or 10-minute drive away, residents are in close proximity to the lively Downtown Stuart. Listed as #6 on Southern Living’s list of the best small towns in the south, Stuart is filled with delectable restaurants, boutique shopping, and year-round events to enjoy. Just 40 minutes to the south, The Palm Beaches offer even more for residents to enjoy, including the Gardens Mall and world-famous Worth Avenue.
Harbour Ridge’s complimentary digital brochure shares an even closer look at the amenities and lifestyle offered within this dazzling waterfront community. Visit HarbourRidge.com or call 772-873-6013 for more information.
Set on 885 beautifully wooded acres at the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club provides a level of privacy and connection with nature that is unheard of in South Florida. Harmonious by design and free-spirited by nature, some of the Club’s most defining characteristics include its synergy with the surrounding natural environment. Here’s a closer look at how living in harmony with nature inspires residents of this private club community.
1. Endless Possibilities By Land or Sea
From dawn until dusk, Harbour Ridge residents are motivated by captivating riverfront vistas and natural wetlands that seamlessly wind through the community. On land, a walking trail along the two miles of pristine riverfront provide endless exploration and stunning views. Three private marinas present the perfect launch point for any waterfront adventure, with 99 slips accommodating vessels between 24 and 80 feet. From sportfishing for sailfish in the “Sailfish Capital of the World” to cruising down to the Bahamas just 55 nautical miles away, there are endless possibilities for residents’ waterfront excursions. Kayaking and paddleboarding across the estuary to Downtown Stuart has also become a delightful way to exercise while staring in awe at the beautiful South Florida surroundings.
2. 36 Holes of Audubon Certified Championship Golf
Members at Harbour Ridge know there is no better way to enjoy South Florida’s breathtaking landscapes than by playing a round on either of the two 18-hole championship golf courses. Situated among vast wetlands and nature preserves, both the River Ridge and Golden Marsh courses combine beauty with playability, with multiple sets of tees that ensure fun for players of every age and skill level. Harbour Ridge’s commitment to environmental preservation truly shines on these golf courses, with both retaining their designation as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” since 2000. Harbour Ridge has also been honored to receive the Outstanding Florida Community Award and is in the process of becoming a fully Audubon Certified Community.
3. Panoramic Water Views from the Clubhouse
Situated on one of the most dramatic points of the St. Lucie River, the Clubhouse highlights the community’s serene surroundings. As the social centerpiece of the community, the Clubhouse is where golfers, yachters, tennis players, and nature enthusiasts converge to create an active, fun-loving community. It is where residents will find elegant formal dining, casual indoor and outdoor dining, a sweeping outdoor terrace overlooking the river, the golf pro shop, and a well-stocked library. A full social calendar and plentiful special-interest clubs ensure there’s an event for every interest, including cooking classes, dinner dances, live entertainment, yachting outings, and more.
4. Focus on Health and Wellness in the Florida Sunshine
Along with the waterfront Clubhouse, the Lakeside Amenity Center makes focusing on fitness feel effortless. Whether residents are interested in light cardio or strength training, the state-of-the-art fitness center offers a spacious gym with the latest exercise equipment, TRX classes, spin room, physical therapy, Pilates, and more. For those who prefer exercising in the year-round Florida sunshine, Harbour Ridge’s tennis facility is nationally ranked, with nine Har-Tru tennis courts and eight pickleball courts filled with weekly socials, round-robin tournaments, and more. Their Peter Burwash International-managed tennis program ensures residents can receive instruction from staff that are a part of one of the best tennis programs in the world.
An Unmatched Private Club Lifestyle
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 for residents 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. 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.
PALM CITY, FLORIDA – Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club is excited to announce the appointment of John O’Leary, one of the food industry’s most notable culinary leaders, as its new Executive Chef. John will direct the club’s four dining facilities, including a fine dining restaurant, poolside cafe, casual dining room, and outdoor riverside bistro, along with additional dining services and catered events.
O’Leary’s extensive culinary experience spans a 20-year career at some of the most exclusive hotels and country clubs in the Northeast and Florida. He most recently served as Director of Culinary Operations and Executive Chef at Wee Burn Country Club in Darien, CT. During his tenure at Wee Burn, he masterfully orchestrated the continual increase of operational efficiency and growth while implementing imaginative and innovative menus over multiple dining venues.
“We are delighted that someone as respected and influential as John O’Leary will be directing our culinary operations at Harbour Ridge,” reported Michael Salerno, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer at the club. “Not only does John possess an impressive pedigree in the culinary world, but he has an incredible vision for Harbour Ridge with plans for new dining experiences and innovative menus. His extensive background and experience in premier clubs and restaurants will help bring our dining experiences to the next level.”
Prior to joining Wee Burn Country Club, John held culinary leadership roles at The Ritz Carlton Hotels, St. Regis Hotels, The Peninsula Hotels and Hilton Resorts. He also partnered with renowned chef Roy Yamaguchi, as well as leading the team at the La Moinerie on the Isle of Sark in the Channel Islands. John also spent several years as Executive Chef at Platinum Clubs on the West Coast of Florida, perfecting his craft at the Naples Yacht Club and Wyndemere Country Club.
A member of the American Culinary Federation and World Chefs Organization, O’Leary apprenticed at the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia where his success led him to train under numerous Certified Master Chefs, including Richard Rosendale, Lawrence McFadden and John Johnstone.
Harbour Ridge is a private, 885-acre community with 695 residences that overlook its two picturesque golf courses, acres of Audubon-certified nature preserve and is perfectly situated on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River. The Board of Directors, management and staff, along with members, are all dedicated to maintaining their commitment to financial soundness and stability in an environment which enables them to enrich their quality of life.
For more information on Harbour Ridge, please contact our Membership and Sales Office at (772) 873-6013 or l.pahl@hrycc.org.
Between the St. Lucie River, Indian River Lagoon, Intracoastal Waterway, and the Atlantic Ocean, Florida’s Treasure Coast is a mecca for boaters from around the world. Living in this South Florida region means indulging in a coveted waterfront lifestyle. Whether residents are drawn to deep-sea fishing or cruising along the coastline, there is something that will pique the interest of boating enthusiasts of all ages. Here’s a closer look at how the area’s waterways invite exploration and adventure.
The Sailfish Capital of the World
For the sports fisherman who loves to cast a line, the Treasure Coast is an angler’s paradise. Nicknamed the “Sailfish Capital of the World,” the offshore Atlantic Ocean waters have the reputation for one of the densest populations of sailfish in the world. Deep-sea sports fishermen cherish the open ocean’s challenging catches, with plentiful annual tournaments to show off their skills. For a more relaxed fishing experience, take a flats boat through the mangrove’s estuary waters, teeming with redfish, snook, tarpon, and trout.
The Boating Crossroads of Florida
From the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, the Treasure Coast’s miles of waterways ensure there are truly no limits to a boater’s adventures. Whether heading up to Fort Pierce or down to Jupiter/Tequesta, sandbars dotting the Intracoastal provide days filled with family fun. The Stuart Sandbar is a favored ‘off the map’ adventure, where families idle up to the shore, enjoy the crystal-clear waters and relish in the Florida sunshine.
Mariners can also sail across the Okeechobee Waterway, a protected inland passage across the entire state from Stuart to Fort Myers. Or, for a weekend getaway, boaters head to the west end of the Bahamas just 55 nautical miles away, with crystal-clear waters, boutique shopping, and ample waterfront adventures to explore. No matter where boaters choose to go, they will surely enjoy Florida’s stunning natural beauty, with plentiful boating activities and adventures.
One-of-a-Kind Waterfront Dining Experiences
Whether boaters are looking to grab a morning cup of coffee before their trip or enjoy a five-star meal after a day spent on the water, Treasure Coast’s waterfront dining opportunities are seemingly endless. Renowned for mouthwatering coastal cuisines and ease of on-site docking, boaters can simply pack up their boat and cruise down to meet friends at their dinner destination. Sailor’s Return and the adjacent Gilbert’s Coffee Bar are favored spots for boaters, offering 930 feet of docks right in front of the restaurants. Downtown Stuart’s courtesy dockage also provides easy access to the area’s vibrant culinary scene. Downtown restaurants including TideHouse, Stuart Boathouse, Hudson’s on the River, and more are known for their diverse array of fresh catches, carefully curated cocktails and scenic views of the St. Lucie River.
An Ideal Home Port Along the Treasure Coast
Situated on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River with easy ocean access just minutes away, residents at Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club enjoy a premier home port. Three private marinas provide the perfect launch point, with a combined 98 slips that range from 24 to 80 feet. Harbour Ridge’s shoreline encompasses two miles of pristine riverfront, ensuring residents enjoy the well-rounded waterfront lifestyle the Treasure Coast is known for.
Designed to take full advantage of the stunning panoramic vistas of the St. Lucie River, Harbour Ridge’s 45,000-square-foot Clubhouse is the heart of the community. Residents can also entertain themselves at the Lakeside Lifestyle Center, home to a Peter Burwash International-managed 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.
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.
