Every January, something truly special happens just minutes from the pristine beaches and exclusive enclaves of Vero Beach: the Vero Beach International Tennis Open (VBITO) returns to the Grand Harbor Golf & Beach Club, and it’s rapidly becoming one of the most coveted weeks on the Treasure Coast social and sporting calendar.
Now in its fourth year at the elite ITF W75 level, this $75,000 women’s professional tournament attracts rising stars and established names from more than 30 countries to our iconic red-clay (Har-Tru) courts. It’s one of only ten tournaments of this caliber in the entire United States, a fact that speaks volumes about the quality of play and the prestige the event has earned in just a few short years.
World-Class Tennis in Our Backyard
This isn’t your average weekend club tournament. Past participants include 2023 finalist Emma Navarro (now ranked #8 in the world) and no fewer than 36 players who competed in the 2024 US Open. When you watch a quarterfinal match at Grand Harbor, you’re often watching the next Grand Slam champion fine-tune her game on the very same clay courts that have launched so many careers.
The 2025 edition runs January 20–26 and promises another outstanding international field playing across ten beautifully maintained Har-Tru courts, including two intimate stadium courts where every slide, topspin forehand, and roar of the crowd feels electric.
More Than Just Tennis – A True Vero Beach Lifestyle Event
What sets VBITO apart from most pro tournaments is how seamlessly it blends world-class athletics with the relaxed, sophisticated lifestyle that defines Vero Beach living.
Mark your calendar for these highlights:
- January 21 – Opening Ceremony at 5:00 p.m. with local dignitaries, live dance performances, and the National Anthem under the setting Florida sun.
- Kids Day & Tennis Clinic – perfect for introducing the next generation to the sport.
- Evening social events including a Fashion Show, Art Show, Wine Social, and the always-elegant Dinner Dance.
- January 26 – Championship Sunday capped off with the popular Muscle Car Show starting at 10:30 a.m.
Whether you’re courtside in the VIP spectator lounge with a chilled rosé in hand or mingling with players and fellow tennis enthusiasts at the pro shop, the atmosphere is unmistakably “Vero” – polished yet laid-back, competitive yet welcoming.
Perfect Timing for Seasonal Residents and Visitors
January in Vero Beach means low humidity, highs in the mid-70s, and that perfect golden light that makes our barrier island glow. Many of my Global Luxury clients time their winter arrival to coincide with Tennis Open week – it’s become an unofficial kick-off to the season.
Grand Harbor Golf & Beach Club itself is one of Vero Beach’s premier private waterfront communities, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury residences, a deep-water marina, beach club, and two championship golf courses. Attending the tournament is a wonderful way to experience the lifestyle that so many discerning buyers are seeking on the Treasure Coast.
Ready to Make Vero Beach Your Home Court?
If you’ve been considering a primary residence or second home on Florida’s East Coast, there’s no better time to explore what Vero Beach has to offer than during this signature week of tennis and celebration.
I’d be delighted to arrange private tours of the finest properties in Grand Harbor, Orchid Island, John’s Island, Windsor, or any of our ocean-to-river estates while you’re in town for the tournament.
Tickets and reservations are available now through Eventbrite or by calling the Grand Harbor concierge at (772) 778-9000. For the full schedule and player updates, visit grandharbor.com/international-open.
See you courtside!
