A classic beach cottage evokes nostalgia in most, serving as a gentle reminder of an era when the shore was a place for simple living and the making of priceless memories.
The house at 3766 Ocean Dr. in Veromar effortlessly conjures these happy recollections in the present moment, balancing a distinct personality with contemporary sophistication. This Mediterranean-style retreat proves that true character only improves with age.
“It’s the only beach cottage left along this road, and everybody knows this house,” says Dale Sorensen Realtor Michelle Clarke, adding that for most, when they step inside, “It’s completely different than what they expect.”
Automatic iron gates swing open to reveal a sweeping, circular driveway centered around a soothing fountain in this oceanfront sanctuary, with a barrel-tile roof and the warm, inviting aesthetic of a secluded coastal haven.
At the apex of the drive, a front porch provides a charming spot to relax, along with direct access to both the main entry and a two-car garage.
As you step through the front door, the stresses of the day evaporate when you are greeted by an infusion of natural light and an uninterrupted view of the Atlantic Ocean. The living room appears to flow from the front entry into the ocean with large windows showcasing a vista that runs the full gamut of coastal splendor, encompassing the horizon in one seamless sweep from the rich green grass of the lawn to the sun-bleached sand of the beach, before dissolving into the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the endless brilliant blue sky.
The interior leans into a crisp, clean, palette that doesn’t compete with the view. The vaulted ceiling, with exposed beams and architectural arches, adds an expansive sense of volume to the cottage, further showcasing the natural surroundings. It seems there’s no room without an outstanding view of the outdoors which offers light and sun and a sense of well-being.
On the south side of the house, the guest suite at the front and the primary suite at the rear enjoy separation from the more active communal areas of the home, enhancing the intimate cottage vibe.
The primary bedroom functions as a private sunrise viewing suite, where remote-controlled blinds can be raised without leaving the bed to reveal the morning light and a glorious sunrise in each season of the year.
The north side of the house includes the kitchen, dining room, a traditional Florida sunroom, a guest bedroom and a bathroom that doubles as a convenient powder room when entertaining.
The layout and built-in cabinetry make use of the space in a very efficient manner.
In the kitchen, bar seating provides a sense of definition from the dining room, a design that allows the chef to look across the living space and gaze at the horizon while preparing a meal and chatting with guests. A pearlescent epoxy finish with custom veining adds dimension to the countertops and enhances the view through the beautiful bay window framing the sea like a living piece of art.
Luxury vinyl flooring runs throughout the house, providing a durable, sand-friendly surface that embraces barefoot beach living and adds a sense of connection throughout all the spaces.
The cozy sunroom is the ultimate spot for morning coffee, afternoon contemplation or night-time stargazing with windows on three sides that bring the coastal landscape indoors.
Outside, the property is an oasis with a pergola that offers a shaded spot to watch the little ones in the pool or to enjoy the exhilarating view and ocean breeze.
The backyard stretches wide across the 0.75-acre property, leading the eye down toward the water. The backyard is fenced and secured by a structural seawall complemented by a generous dune rife with young sea oats. The elevation of the home provides a sense of privacy, lifting residents above the sightline of beachcombers walking along more than 250 feet of direct ocean frontage.
“It’s simple glamour, simple living,” says Clarke, noting that the home is easily maintained, whether for year-round residents or as a vacation getaway.
“The owners have loved the closeness to the beach. It’s exactly what a beach getaway should be,” she adds.
Though the home is located close to Vero’s charming seaside village, none of the beachgoer sounds or traffic disturb the tranquil setting created by the nearby waves and ocean breezes. You can sit out back in the morning with a cup of coffee to watch the sunrise or in the afternoon with a glass of wine to enjoy walkers as they come and go along the beach. There’s always something to see, whether it’s pelicans diving for a quick snack or dolphins frolicking in the waves.
The seaside subdivision of Veromar – in the section of Central Beach north of the Merrill P. Barber Bridge – is convenient to mainland shopping and just a short walk away from the Ocean Drive shopping, dining and resort district. Cultural offerings are nearby at Riverside Theatre and the Vero Beach Museum of Art. Riverside Park offers a walking and exercise trail, a large tennis facility and a boat launch just south of the neighborhood. The city marina and an off-leash dog park are nearby.
For a closer look at the home, stop by the Open House on May 31 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Vital Statistics
3766 Ocean Dr.
Neighborhood: Veromar • Year built: 1956
Construction: Concrete block
Lot size: 0.75 acre • Home size: 1,813 square feet
Bedrooms: 3 • Bathrooms: 3 • View: 180-degree Atlantic Ocean
Pool: Heated swimming pool with waterfall
Additional features: Automatic gate; vaulted ceilings; sunroom; wood plank tile flooring; designer finishes; custom, motorized window treatment; fully furnished; security system; fenced yard; impact windows and doors; two-car garage; pergola terrace; outdoor shower; 261 feet of ocean frontage; and direct beach access
Listing agency: Dale Sorensen Real Estate
Listing agent: Michelle Clarke, 772-263-0386
Listing price: $4,750,000
Photos provided
